Major Treatment Upgrades at Illinois American Water’s Hardin Facility
Illinois American Water has made significant upgrades at its Hardin treatment plant, investing $500,000 to enhance water quality for the local community. A sodium permanganate chemical feed system was successfully installed to address the natural iron and manganese present in the groundwater.
Improving Water Quality for the Community
According to Sarah Bowman, the Senior Operations Manager at Illinois American Water, the high levels of natural iron and manganese in the groundwater prompted the necessity for the new treatment process. The addition of sodium permanganate is pivotal in effectively reducing these elements, thereby improving the water’s aesthetic quality, including its taste and odor.
Community Feedback and Satisfaction
Bowman further shared that initial feedback from residents has been overwhelmingly positive. The new treatment process is making a notable difference, ensuring that the water supply is clean and pleasant for everyday use. The completed installation marks an important milestone in enhancing the overall water quality for Hardin residents.
Filtration System Overhaul
In addition to the sodium permanganate system, the Hardin plant underwent a comprehensive review of its filtration system last fall. This included both replacement and repair of the filter media, crucial for maintaining a high standard of water purification. Additional improvements are scheduled to be undertaken in the coming years, with more updates expected in 2025.
Commitment to Ongoing Quality Monitoring
Illinois American Water prioritizes public health and safety, regularly monitoring and testing the drinking water in Hardin. Assurance of water safety is confirmed through ongoing tests, which consistently show that it meets or exceeds established water quality standards.
Support for Fire Safety in the Community
Beyond improving water quality, Illinois American Water is dedicated to enhancing fire safety in the community. The local team has collaborated with the fire department to maintain efficient fire protection services. Recently, 17 fire hydrants were replaced, and three new hydrants were installed, along with 39 new valves in the water distribution system, further improving safety measures for residents.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) stands as the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, serving over 14 million customers. With a legacy dating back to 1886, the company is committed to ensuring the delivery of clean and reliable drinking water and wastewater services across 14 states and 18 military installations.
About Illinois American Water
As a subsidiary of American Water, Illinois American Water is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing essential services to approximately 1.4 million residents. The company's local operations are complemented by a quality control and research laboratory located in Belleville, ensuring the highest standards of service and safety for its customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What improvements have been made at the Hardin water treatment plant?
Significant upgrades include the installation of a sodium permanganate chemical feed system and an overhaul of the filtration system.
Why was sodium permanganate added to the water supply?
Sodium permanganate is utilized to reduce elevated levels of iron and manganese in the groundwater, enhancing the overall water quality.
How is Illinois American Water ensuring safe drinking water in Hardin?
Continuous monitoring and testing confirm that the drinking water meets quality standards, providing peace of mind to residents.
What additional measures were taken for community safety?
Illinois American Water has replaced fire hydrants and valves in the community’s water distribution system, improving firefighting capabilities.
What is American Water's overall mission?
American Water's mission is to provide safe, clean, reliable, and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to its customers across the United States.
