Highland Haven disconnects two raw water wells that tested positive for E. coli
FROM STAFF REPORTS
HIGHLAND HAVEN — Despite a positive E. coli bacteria test in two raw water wells, Highland Haven officials said the chlorination process will keep the city’s drinking water safe.
Highland Haven Mayor Peter Freehill said source samples results Sept. 10 came back positive for the bacteria, prompting officials to send out an alert to residents. Highland Haven is a bedroom community of about 400 residents located on Lake LBJ in western Burnet County.
“These are the raw water wells prior to being treated with chlorine,” Freehill said. “We have been maintaining a positive chlorine content in the water that’s delivered to the customer, so that precludes any E. coli from being present in the drinking water.”
E. coli is a common type of bacteria that causes illness that can become severe in the elderly, infants and small children.
The town has six total water wells; the two wells that tested positive for the bacteria are located on the grounds of the adjacent Camp Champions, a facility that caters to youth summer activities.
“We took the wells offline,” he said. “We probably will retire them.”
For more information, call city hall at (830) 265-4366 or (830) 265-8812.
General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available by calling the EPA Safe Drinking Water hot line at (800) 426-4791.
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