Boron In Wells

Something in the water has some residents in Gibson County concerned. That something is boron. And its coming from Duke Energys coal ash storage ponds. The company says not to worry, but some residents are still concerned. Duke Energy distributed bottled water after 8 residential wells tested showed amounts of boron in the water. Boron is a non-metallic element that can be found in food, water, even air. And in small amounts, is generally okay. But consuming large amounts of boron can cause serious health problems. Significant amounts were found by Duke Energy officials after a voluntary study. They say the levels arent dangerous yet, but high enough for them to take precautionary measures. 843 were actually below that level because of that, the most conservative approach would be giving residents bottled water. How did boron get into the well water? One theory, is a leak in a clay liner beneath one of their ash-fill ponds. Duke Energy has been working with consultants about the health affects of boron, and say residents can safely shower with it, wash their food, or eat fish from nearby rivers and streams. Duke energy says the bottled water is only a temporary measure until they can install a long term solution. Again, this affects only residents who use well water, and have been notified by the company.