1. How a historic soil fumigant impurity ended up in groundwater
1,2,3-trichloropropane, commonly abbreviated as 1,2,3-TCP or just TCP, originated largely as a contaminant in soil fumigants used predominantly between the 1950s and 1980s. Although these chemicals were applied to the surface or near surface soils, decades later, the chlorinated solvent has migrated downward through soil layers into deep groundwater sources in some areas. The slow movement and chemical persistence of 1,2,3-TCP mean that its presence in water sources can be a legacy issue rather than a recent spill or leak.
2. Agricultural land-use history in Polk County and its association with 1,2,3-TCP
Polk County’s extensive agricultural activity, including the use of soil fumigants decades ago, is an important factor when reviewing regional water-quality data for 1,2,3-TCP. Federal monitoring records from the Des Moines Waterworks, the main public water supplier using surface water sources, show no detections of this chlorinated solvent above the reporting threshold between 2014 and 2015. This aligns with the agricultural land-use patterns, since reliance on surface water reduces the chance of 1,2,3-TCP from deep groundwater impacting supply. However, land-use history can guide initial expectations for treatment needs in private wells or alternative sources.
3. Influence of sample depth, well depth, and water source on what to expect
The depth from which water is drawn plays a critical role in the likelihood of encountering 1,2,3-TCP. Surface water systems, such as those supplying Des Moines Waterworks, generally show very low or no measurable TCP compared to deeper groundwater wells where legacy fumigant residues accumulate. Therefore, knowledge of whether water comes from surface or groundwater, and the depth of that groundwater, can help households gauge their risk and decide whether to test specifically for 1,2,3-TCP concentrations themselves.
4. Matching treatment capacity to household water demand
Once a household determines the presence and levels of 1,2,3-trichloropropane through certified laboratory testing, selecting the appropriate treatment technology depends on daily water use. Larger families or homes with higher water consumption require filtration equipment that can handle greater flow rates without compromising contact time, which is essential for removing volatile organic compounds like TCP. Estimating daily water demand accurately ensures the chosen solution maintains efficiency and longevity.
5. Understanding what federal sample measurements mean and do not mean
The EPA’s Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR3) records provide data based on a detection threshold of 0.03 micrograms per liter (µg/L), equivalent to 0.03 parts per billion (ppb) for 1,2,3-TCP. For the Des Moines Waterworks system in Polk County, no sample exceeded this reporting level during the 2014-2015 monitoring period. It is important to note that these measurements are not enforceable safety limits nor do they indicate any violation or unsafe condition. Rather, they serve as a regional snapshot to help guide further assessment. Individual household water quality can only be confirmed through specific testing of the home’s supply.
Conclusion: For a household in Polk County deciding on treatment options for 1,2,3-TCP, the process involves understanding historical contamination pathways, the role of agricultural land use, the type and depth of water source, and accurately sizing treatment capacity to daily demand. The Fleck 1,2,3-TCP Filter ships ready to configure and is designed to address household water volumes effectively once the presence of TCP has been confirmed by testing. This direct purchase solution provides a reliable option aligned with measured demand and local water-quality context.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2015-04-01. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for Des Moines Waterworks (IA7727031), IA: 12 results across 1 listed contaminants, 0 detections above the reporting level; nothing detected above the method reporting level
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