Residents recently received a postcard notifying them that samples for Perchlorate were not taken during the third quarter of 2007. The samples were taken during November 2007. We are required to test for Perchlorate on an annual basis and were required by the DEP to collect the samples between July 1, 2007 and September 30, 2007. Taking the samples in November 2007 was a violation of the sampling schedule which is why residents received the notice.

Perchlorate was not detected in any of the samples taken during 2007 or in previous years. Perchlorate is manufactured and is found naturally in the environment. Its most commonu uses are for solid rocket propellant and explosives.

Perchlorate is an unregulated contaminant and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is in the process of determining if it should be regulated. Please visit the EPA's website for more information about possible sources of contaminaion.

The Topsfield Water Department (PWS ID#3298000) is committed to providing our customers with high quality drinking water that meets or surpasses state or federal standards for quality and safety. To ensure delivery of a quality product, we have made significant investments in treatment facilities, water quality monitoring and the distribution system. We are pleased to report the results of our calendar year 2008 water testing to inform you about your drinking water. Each year, we will be mailing you information about water quality.