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San Manuel Miner
Around June 24, reports were received that e-coli bacteria was found in the Mammoth water supply. People were complaining about having no water and low water pressure. It was said that some people had gotten sick from drinking the water and burned due to contact with heavily chlorinated water, but these reports were unverified. It was alleged that complaints were made to Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
On Thursday, June 26, Town Manager Patsy Large said that they did have one of their water tanks show a positive reading for bacteria. The tank was taken off line and emptied. Two companies were brought in to clean the tanks. There were some people without water and low water pressure due to this. When asked if they had given a warning to boil water to residents, she said the bacteria levels were not that high that a warning needed to be given. Per statutes, she said that there had to be two positive tests within a 24-hour period. She added that the Town of Mammoth has been working closely with ADEQ to resolve the problem and were following ADEQ rules. It was expected that the water situation would improve by last Friday.
To report an emergency ADEQ can be notified at Toll free 800-234-5677 or 602-771-2330. Complaints can be filed on their website www.azdeq.gov or for general information 520-628-6733.
John Hernandez lives in Oracle. He is retired and enjoys writing and traveling. He is active in the Oracle Historical Society. He covers numerous public events, researches historical features and writes business/artist profiles.
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