FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: May 4, 2016
CONTACT: Jim Martin, (603) 271-3710
des.nh.gov
twitter.com/NHDES

NHDES and Saint-Gobain Announce Agreement to Fund Design Work on Potential Public Water Extension

Concord, NH – The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) is pleased to announce that Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics has proactively agreed to fund design efforts for a potential extension of public water service into the Southern New Hampshire PFOA investigation area, primarily in Litchfield, while also examining affected residences in Bedford, Merrimack and Manchester. Saint-Gobain has made this commitment while NHDES continues to investigate other Potentially Responsible Parties, who may also bear financial responsibilities. Saint-Gobain has done this because of their focus on public health of the local communities and their employees. NHDES has determined that acting quickly to prepare for the possible construction of water service extensions is the most efficient and cost-effective solution regardless of what other sources may later be identified as contributing to the problem.

The Pennichuck Corporation, the Merrimack Village District Water Works, and the Manchester Water Works, at the request of NHDES, have agreed to work with Saint-Gobain, NHDES, the affected towns, and any additional Potentially Responsible Parties that are identified in this effort to accelerate a long-term solution that will deliver clean and safe drinking water to the affected area.