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2021 Water System Study
Overview
Watch the video for information on the water system study improvements and drinking water treatment plant siting options.
Vea el vídeo en español (watch the video in Spanish)
Location options for drinking water treatment plant
Giving your input
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Analyzing water for manganese levels
In 2019, the City of Northfield in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), had water samples taken as part of the Fourth Unregulated Contaminants Monitoring Rule (UCMR 4). As part of the analysis, manganese was analyzed within the drinking water. Samples were taken as part of the UCMR 4 and additional manganese samples were taken in 2020. The results are listed below. Since most of the wells are over 100 ug/L, guidance level for MDH, the City is analyzing ways to lower its manganese.
Additional information on manganese in the city’s drinking water
Well number | Manganese level (ug/L) | Average manganese level (ug/L) |
---|---|---|
02 | 23.70, 40.2, 28.1 | 30.67 |
03 | 139.00 | 139.00 |
04 | 136.00, 119, 344 | 199.67 |
05 | 97.20, 83.6, 81.0 | 87.27 |
06 | 112.00 | 112.00 |
Lowering manganese levels
As part of analyzing different ways to lower the manganese within the City’s drinking water supply, the City developed a Request For Proposals (RFP) for a Water System Study. As an outcome of the RFP, the City contracted the Water System Study with Bolton and Menk, Inc.
The Water System Study was to conduct the following items:
- Gather and review background information
- Water Demand Projections
- Evaluation of the Existing Water Supply
- Evaluation of the Water Quality
- Evaluation Water Treatment Options
- Treatment Plant and New Source Water Well Siting Study
- Space Needs Assessment
- Staffing Review and Analysis
- Draft Report
- Public Outreach
- Final Report
Preliminary recommendations
In August 2021, Bolton and Menk, Inc. and City staff brought the draft water system study to the City Council for discussion. The preliminary recommendations are:
- Construct a drinking water treatment plant that consists of a gravity filtration with reverse osmosis to achieve lower manganese concentrations and to provide softened water to residents. The reverse osmosis process enhances treatment and adds resiliency to treatment process.
- Construct the drinking water treatment plant at either the Hall Avenue water tower site or off Maple Street south of Meadows Park to fit all of the improvements including renewable energy and require the purchase of land.
- Conduct public engagement related to the recommendation.
Background Materials
August 2021 City Council Presentation
Water System Study Open House Presentation February 22, 2022
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Justin Wagner
Utilities ManagerPhone: 507-645-3083
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