Drinking Water Contaminants of Emerging Concern
MDH has established a new initiative called the Drinking Water Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CEC) program (made possible by the Clean Water Fund from the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment). The CEC program protects drinking water by identifying contaminants of emerging concern that have the potential to occur in Minnesota drinking water sources. The CEC program also investigates the potential for human exposure to these contaminants and develops guidance values, as applicable.Â
Contaminants evaluated under the CEC effort may include industrial chemicals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and other contaminants that have been released or detected in Minnesota waters (surface water and groundwater) or that have the potential to migrate to or be detected in Minnesota waters. The CEC program seeks to provide health-based guidance for ten contaminants during the current biennium and has identified three contaminants—metribuzin degradates, 1,2,3-trichloropropane and triclosan for evaluation during the current fiscal year.
MDH staff are coordinating outreach efforts regarding the CEC program and have conducted meetings with partners from various state and federal agencies and the University of Minnesota. Additional meetings with various non-profit organizations and industry and stakeholder groups will also be conducted. Those wishing to provide input on the contaminant selection criteria and to participate in upcoming meetings may contact Michele Ross at 651-201-4927 or via e-mail at michele.ross@state.mn.us.