Engineers have figured out what’s causing one of the city’s wells to pump mud.
Located at the end of Fairview Lane, Well 4 is an integral part of the city’s plans to increase its water supply for residents.
Two months ago, when city workers began to fill the well tank, mud started flowing. The well had been tested and working properly before, interim City Manager Joe Duran said.
A camera was sent down the well. Engineers have used that footage to make several guesses about what contributed to the problem. A report from Wilson & Company lists four reasons for why the well could be malfunctioning.
Long-term use could have worked some of the gravel loose. Gravel pack in the well keeps sand out of the water. Also, settling of the gravel pack over time could have left openings around the screen. The well screen might have deteriorated over time. A well plug could have come loose and allowed leakage.
The report goes on to say that it’s not economical to determine the status of the gravel pack.
“We are faced with providing recommendations to deal with the problem as it exists and not necessarily solving the underlying problem or problems,” the report stated.
The report lays out steps for the city to take which include refilling the gravel pack, re-plugging the bottom of the well, purging and disinfecting the well and installing an internal liner. A quote from RMCI general contractors estimated the cost of the proposed fixes at $48,707.
Once Well 4 is repaired, the city can continue with its plan to blend its water with water from Well 7, which is located in the Meadow Acres subdivision. Both wells do not currently meet Environmental Protection Agency standards. Well 4 has high levels of fluoride and arsenic and Well 7, elevated nitrates. The blended water should meet or exceed those standards, allowing the city to bring them back on line and increase its water supply.