NEWS RELEASE 2005-13
June 13, 2005

Air Force Announces Results of Residential Well Sampling

MASSACHUSETTS MILITARY RESERVATION, Cape Cod, Mass. — Officials of the Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence (AFCEE) have announced the results of the May 2005 residential well sampling program for homes near groundwater plumes emanating from the Massachusetts Military Reservation (MMR).  All samples met state and federal safe drinking water standards.  Samples were analyzed for volatile organic compounds (VOCs).  VOCs, such as fuels and solvents, are known contaminants in plumes related to MMR.  Twenty-three of 30 eligible homes were sampled in May.  Another round of residential well sampling will be conducted later in the summertime.  Homes are sampled on a semi-annual basis.

The sampling program is done in consultation with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the local Boards of Health for the towns of Bourne, Falmouth and Mashpee.  The United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection were also consulted.  

Mr. Jonathan S. Davis, Remediation Program Manager for AFCEE, stated, “The Air Force’s first commitment has always been the protection of public health.  The residential sampling program is a major part of that commitment.”  The sampling and testing is free of charge and is being offered to ensure those residents surrounding the MMR, who live near groundwater plumes, have clean drinking water.

For more information about the residential sampling program, please contact Mr. Doug Karson, at (508) 968-4678 ext. 2