20190718DEQ Comments.pdf

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Suzanne Scheidt
Suzanne Scheidt
Diamond Bar Estates, additional comments
Thurcday, July 18, 2019 Li47iM PM
ldaho Public Utilities Commission
Oflice of the SecretarvRECEIVED
JUL I I 20t9
Boise, ldaho
Mike,g C5 - r.,.r- lQo t //rttP' {,l)- lq'o I
I am writing to follow up on comments I submitted to you on June 10, 20L9,via email, on the
Diamond Bar Water System, 1D1280268. After my comments were submitted, I received further
information regarding this system. As a result of this new information, I wanted to provide
additional comments.
First, it has come to my attention that the proposed buyer (Gem State Water Company, LLC) of the
Diamond Bar Water System has executed an agreement with the current System owner to continue
to use the backup source, meeting the requirement of IDAPA 58.01.08.501.L7, Ground Water Source
Redundancy. Although this may be a short-term agreement, this currently satisfies IDAPA
58.01.08.501.17.
Additionally, I have learned that the redundant well was constructed in the late 1960s, prior to the
promulgation of the rule requiringthe redundant (emergency)sourceto have a dedicated well lot,
IDAPA 58.01.08.512. Thus, there is no current requirement for Gem State Water Company to have a
dedicated well lot. ln the event the redundant emergency source were to be contaminated, and it
was determined contamination was attributed to activities within well setback distances, an
alternative emergency source may be required.
I am of the understanding that the Gem State Water Company is considering acquiring an alternative
redundant source that will satisfy well lot requirements. The current redundant (emergency) source
does not meet minimum buffer distances, as noted in the 2015 Drinking Water Supply Report
provided to you on June 10. Acquiring a redundant source that meets all DEQ s rules would be in
the best interest of public health.
Thank you,
Suzanne Scheidt I Senior Drinking Water Analyst
ldaho Department of Environmental Quality
2110 lronwood Parkway, Coeur d'Alene, ldaho 83814
Direct: 208.666.4624
Office Line: 208.7 69.7422
http://www.deq.ida ho.gov/
Our mission is to protect human health and the quality of ldaho's air, land and water