While arsenic has a long history in western society, the phantasmagorical nature of its poisonous powers means that many people remain skeptical. Case in point: Arsenic Water Madison South Dakota is causing health concerns for the town and its residents.
The discovery of high levels of arsenic in the water in Madison, South Dakota is a worrying one. The water was tested by the Madison Water Utility and found to have higher than allowable levels of arsenic. The Environmental Protection Agency recommended that the public remain cautious, but not to stop use or consumption until further research is conducted.
The article discusses how the arsenic levels detected in Madison, South Dakota’s water is alarming. Arsenic is a toxic chemical that can cause cancer.
What is Arsenic Water?
Arsenic is a metallic element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. It is a naturally occurring element that has been found in water supplies across the United States. Ingestion of arsenic can lead to adverse health effects, including cancer.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for arsenic of 10 micrograms per liter (μg/L). The MCL is the highest level of arsenic that the EPA considers safe for human consumption.
The Madison County Water Utility serves about 9,000 people in southwestern South Dakota. The utility has tested its water supply for arsenic and found levels above the EPA’s MCL. The utility is working with state and federal officials to determine how much of the arsenic in its water comes from sources other than groundwater, such as municipal wastewater treatment plants or coal mines.