In February 2007, the City of Ripon, Wis., received bad news that a well would be shut down due to high concentrations of the carcinogen trichloroethylene (TCE).Quarterly samples tested by the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) showed that the TCE exceeded the maximum contamination level of 5 µg/L. Today, an innovative technology for TCE removal helps the city limit its chemical usage and maintain energy efficiency for its drinking water operations.Since TCE is not a naturally occurring compound, the DNR sought to determine its source while supporting Ripon’s evaluation of treatment alternatives and fully funding the treatment process.“The DNR
