PUBLIC NOTICE OF TARENTUM BOROUGH
The Tarentum Borough Water Department is notifying its customers of a violation identified during routine monitoring and oversight by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). While this is not an emergency customers have the right to know what occurred and how the Borough is addressing the issue.
Summary of Violation
1. Maximum Containment Level Exceedance for TTHMs (25 PA Code 109.1003):
Recent test results for the second quarter of 2025 showed that the annual running average for Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) exceeded the allowable maximum contaminant level of .080 mg/L (MCL). The Borough had a violation of .093 mg/L.
o Status: The Borough is increasing hydrant flushing throughout the affected areas to improve circulation and reduce water age both of which contribute to lower TTHM levels. Additionally DEP approval has been requested to move the potassium permanganate injection point closer to the river intake. This will allow earlier treatment of organic materials and reduce the formation of TTHMs in the system.
What Does This Mean?
Some people who drink water containing trihalomethanes in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver kidneys or central nervous systems and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. For specific health concerns consult your healthcare provider. General information on drinking water safety is available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
What’s Being Done?
Tarentum Borough is working with DEP to resolve the issue and prevent future violations.
o Hydrant flushing will be ongoing and completed within three months. Additionally the Borough has purchased automatic hydrant flushers which are on site and will be installed over the next few weeks.
o Relocation of the chemical injection point is subject to DEP permit approval and is expected to proceed shortly thereafter.
For further information please contact: Jeff Adams Tarentum Borough Water Department. Phone: 724-224-1818.
This notice is issued by the Tarentum Borough Water Department.
PWS ID #5020055.
382435 (7/30/25)