Feature Article November 20, 2003
LAND O' LAKES NewsWeb Home Gasoline in Sydenham Water Not a New IssueAccording to recent reports, the Ministry of the Environment has determined that up to five homes in central Sydenham have "experienced gas-like odours" in their well water. Petroleum hydrocarbons have been identified in the water, and a hydro geologist is attempting to determine the source(s) of contamination. For most residents this is old news: a study done by J.D.Lee Engineering for the Ministry of the Environment in 1983 identified an area of gasoline contamination in the centre of the village at that time. Three homes or businesses reported odour in water which could be gasoline related, and another three reported gasoline in the water. In one location, the study notes, "gasoline first appeared in the water in 1954." The 1983 study of 233 properties, when compared to testing done by the MOE in 1976 and 1981, and by J.D.Lee Engineering in 1981 & 1982, revealed "no significant change in the water quality problems." Although the study recommended a communal water system, public reaction to the expense led the council of the day to turn it down. Grants were obtained to help set up point-of-use treatment of wells and upgrading of septic systems, on a voluntary basis. South Frontenac CAO Gord Burns reports that all the results of the most recent water testing have been forwarded to the MOE for their comments. If a response comes before the end of November, the present Water Committee will meet to review them. Otherwise, the matter will be turned over to the new council in December, and a new water committee will be established.
