Dodge City Water Well Tests Positive For Chemicals

The state health department has been testing water wells in Dodge City after previous testing found a toxic contaminant.

The tests conducted last August found a contaminant called tetrachloroethylene (teh-truh-klohr-oh-ETH’-eh-leen), or PCE, in a well.

PCE is a liquid commonly used in dry cleaners. The Environmental Protection Agency says drinking water containing excessive levels of PCE for many years could lead to an increased risk of cancer.

Corey Keller, public works superintendent, says the test showed the level was below the federal maximum contaminate level. Keller says the site was tested again, most recently in February when the contaminant was no longer detectable at that site.

Keller says more tests are being conducted to determine if the PCE is still there.