Contamination concerns at Teer Quarry, a future drinking water supply for Durham
As Durham grows in population size, the city is exploring new sources for drinking water, but the prospect of using Teer Quarry is raising contamination concerns.
A report commissioned by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) shows toxic chemicals, including 1 4-dioxane, found in groundwater near the site are migrating towards the pit.
Southern Environmental Law Center attorney Geoff Gisler handles water protection issues in North Carolina.
"I think it's a valid concern," Gisler said. "This is a chemical that we've known for a long time is a carcinogen and is a carcinogen at very low levels."
The state has dealt with 1,4-dioxane contamination issues at other sites, including the Haw watershed and part of the Cape Fear River Basin. It's known as a "forever chemical" because of how long it can take to break down in the environment.
"We've seen what a what a problem it can be once it gets into the water supply," Gisler said.
Removing this contaminant, found in cosmetic and cleaning products, calls for a sophisticated oxidation process.
According Durham Water Management communications analyst Joe Lunne, the water in Teer Quarry has not tested positive for 1,4-dioxane in the past 15 years.
The DEQ is holding a public hearing at 6 p.m. Thursday to review the city of Durham’s request to reclassify Teer Quarry and a segment of the Eno River in Durham County.
The hearing will take place at Durham Technical Community College in the Northern Durham Center, building 1, room 130.
Residents can also submit comments in writing to DEQ by emailing elizabeth.kountis@ncdenr.gov before Nov. 14, 2022.
