City of Battle Lake

Dear Battle Lake Community,

We want to share some important information about your drinking water. Your safety and well-being are paramount to us, which is why we took a proactive step to conduct voluntary testing of our municipal drinking water supply wells. This was not a requirement, but a precautionary measure to ensure everyone's continued access to safe and clean drinking water.

Why is This Worth Noting?

During our recent voluntary testing, PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) were found in one of our drinking water wells this past spring. Initially, the levels in this well were below the proposed health-based values set by the MN Department of Health. However, subsequent testing verified the presence of PFAS at a level that both the EPA and MN Department of Health have considered long-term exposure to be a risk.  While this doesn't pose an immediate risk, it's important for us to be transparent and proactive in addressing any potential concern

Steps Taken to Keep You Safe

In response to these findings, we promptly ceased the use of the high PFAS Well #4. Currently, our primary water source is Well #5, which has negligible levels of PFAS. This action was taken to ensure your peace of mind and continued access to safe drinking water.

Understanding PFAS

PFAS are man-made chemicals that break down slowly over time. They're considered emerging contaminants and may potentially have health impacts with prolonged, high-level exposure. It's important to note that our water system or well is not the source of this contaminant; it enters our water system through groundwater.  PFAS are currently an unregulated group of contaminants. 

How did PFAS get in the water?

Battle Lake and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency are investigating how PFAS may have gotten into the source of water.

The Challenges and Our Dedication

Dealing with PFAS is intricate. These chemicals have been part of many common products for years, which makes it hard to grasp their full impact. The EPA is currently considering regulations for this group of substances, expected to be confirmed in 2024. Please know that we're dedicated to your well-being and are collaborating closely with the Minnesota Department of Health to guarantee your uninterrupted access to pure and secure drinking water. Your safety is our utmost priority.

Your Role in a Safer Community

We believe that together, we can make a positive impact. It's important for all residents and businesses in Battle Lake to be aware of PFAS and its environmental and health considerations. By learning more about PFAS and taking steps to reduce its presence in our community, we can collectively contribute to a safer future.

We'll keep you updated on our progress in addressing PFAS in your drinking water. Your well-being is our utmost priority.

For more information, visit the following links:

MDH Dashboard Link Showing Drinking Water Test Results: https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water

/pfasmap.html(https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/envi ronment/water/pfasmap.html)

MDH Link to More Information on PFAS:

https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/hazar dous/topics/pfcs.html(https://www.health.state.mn.us/communiti es/environment/hazardous/topics/pfcs.html)

MDH Links to Reducing Exposure to PFAS:

https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/hazar dous/docs/pfas/pfasreducingexp.pdf(https://www.health.state.mn

.us/communities/environment/hazardous/docs/pfas/pfasreducing exp.pdf)

MDH Link to PFAS and Home Treatment of Water:

https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/hazar dous/topics/pfashometreat.html(https://www.health.state.mn.us/ communities/environment/hazardous/topics/pfashometreat.html)