OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – Testing done over the weekend did not detect the presence of hexavalent chromium in the Huron River system, according to Michigan officials.
On Saturday, EGLE crews tested 55 locations throughout the river system from Barton Pond upstream to Wixom. The city of Ann Arbor has a drinking water intake in that area. None of the 75 samples tested had detectable level of either hexavalent chromium or total chromium.
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The chemicals were discharged to the sanitary sewer system from Tribar Manufacturing in Wixom the weekend of July 30 and routed to the Wixom wastewater treatment facility, officials said. That wastewater discharge to Norton Creek, which flows into the Huron River system.
Hexavalent chromium is a known carcinogen that can cause a number of adverse health effects through ingestion, skin contact or inhalation.
Read more: What is hexavalent chromium? The toxic compound spilled into Huron River, found in I-696 green ooze
How many tests have been done?
At least 144 water samples have been collected throughout 42 river miles since the release. Out of those, three came back with detectable levels of hexavalent chromium. Two were found in Hubbell Pond and one was in the middle of Kent Lake.
The Kent Lake detection was 5 parts per billion (ppb) – just at the detectable limit of 5 ppb. The two Hubbell Pond detections were 11 and 9 parts per billion. All three were at or below values to protect aquatic life.
Officials warn people not to swim, fish in Huron River
Officials say all people and pets should avoid contact with Huron River water between North Wixom Road in Oakland County and Kensington Road in Livingston County.
That includes Norton Creek downstream of the Wixom Wastewater Treatment Plant (Oakland County), Hubbell Pond (also known as Mill Pond in Oakland County) and Kent Lake (Oakland and Livingston counties).
- Don’t swim in, wade in, play in or drink water directly from the Huron River.
- Don’t water your plants or lawn with Huron River water.
- Don’t eat fish caught in this section of the Huron River. A do not eat advisory for PFOS is already in effect.
Read: Officials warn people not to swim, fish in Huron River due to cancer-causing chemical: What to know
Have questions about hexavalent chromium?
People who have questions about hexavalent chromium can call the MI Toxic Hotline at 800-648-6942. It is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.