For release: For further information contact: Ohiariko:wa / July 20, 2004 Lornie Swamp SRMT Environment Division Phone: 518-358-6211 Fax: 518-358-6252 Public Information Office St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (518) 358-2272 ext. 236 Environment Division to Conduct Study of Well Water St. Regis Mohawk Tribe - The Environment Division of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe will conduct a study of private wells on the St. Regis Mohawk Reservation and Mohawk residences located within ten miles of the Reservation boundary. Well water will be tested at no cost to the homeowner. Interested community members should contact Jim Snyder at 358-5937 for more information about the study. A maximum of 250 wells and/or monitoring wells will be accepted. Although most environmental concern has focused on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), this study's goal is to determine the level of inorganic contaminants in ground waters. This study will obtain a significant number of samples to determine current concentrations, identify potential problems, and provide information that can be used to plan for future use and aquifer preservation. Although the quality of ground water is of critical importance to public health, only public water supplies are routinely monitored. In rural areas, such as the North Country, many people use ground water from private wells for household uses. Levels of inorganic trace elements and metals, including various forms of arsenic, chromium, lead, mercury, and others are of concern. These elements can originate from natural geologic materials or from old or faulty plumbing systems, mining or the improper disposal of waste. Homeowners who do not fit the criteria above may submit their names to be placed on a list of alternates.