NEWELL—The city of Newell in Buena Vista County lifted a “do not use” water advisory Wednesday night after laboratory test results showed the city’s drinking water is clear of mercury contamination.
There was no detection of mercury in water samples in drinking water taken at five sites (two wells, the drinking water plant, water tower and in the distribution system). Residents can safely resume using tap water for all uses.
The city issued the “do not use” water advisory Wednesday after the water supply operator noticed a small amount of mercury in a wastewater drain at the city’s treatment plant. The city is working to properly remove the mercury from the building.
Look for updates on the city’s Facebook page.