Bowling Green Converts Water Treatment To Chloramine

Posted by April M. Fronick on Dec 14th, 2010

Precautions Should Be Taken By Kidney Disease Patients, Fish Owners

The City of Bowling Green water treatment facility is preparing to change the disinfection method of the water supplied to its customers.

Beginning on Jan. 10, 2011, the city will convert to chloramines as the primary disinfectant of drinking water.

“The change will enable the city to continue to meet federal and state regulations on total trihalomethane (TTHM) levels,” said Bo Stinnett, public works manager.

He added that chloramines do not pose a health hazard to the general population and most people will notice little difference in the taste of their water. However, chlormaines can be a serious problem to kidney disease patients undergoing dialysis on artificial kidney machines unless the chloramines are reduced to acceptable levels. The city is working with state and county health departments to ensure that everyone involved with the treatment of dialysis patients is alerted and that proper precautions are taken.

Chloramines, like chlorine are toxic to fish. Therefore, anyone putting fish into water obtained from the city’s water supply should make sure the fish are properly protected. Local fish and pet shops should be contacted to determine the best measures to cope with the chloraminated water supply. Letting chloraminated water stand for long periods of time WILL NOT WORK to reduce the chloraminates, Stinnett cautioned.

All residents and businesses inside of city limits and a select number of residences and businesses outside the city limits will be affected.

Questions regarding chloramine treatment can be direct to the Alliance Water Resources staff at (573) 324-6262.