The City of Bismarck's public water system record, covering Burleigh County, North Dakota, shows no detections of several monitored volatile organic compounds (VOCs) above reporting levels in federal surveys conducted between 2013-2015. This monitoring encompassed compounds like 1,1-dichloroethane, chloromethane, bromomethane, HCFC-22, Halon 1011, 1,3-butadiene, and MTBE, with none found above their respective detection thresholds. While no health-based violations are on record, homeowners with previous equipment failures addressing VOCs may consider certain treatment technologies to manage potential household concerns.
How Seasonal Water-Table Changes Move a Solvent Plume Relative to a Well Screen
Seasonal fluctuations in groundwater levels influence the position and concentration of solvent plumes near well intake points. During wetter seasons, rising water tables can shift plumes upward or laterally, potentially changing VOC concentrations detected in groundwater. Conversely, drier seasons lower water tables, possibly exposing well screens to different contaminant profiles or reducing plume contact. For residents relying on groundwater, these changes mean VOC levels in water can vary over time even within the same well, underscoring the importance of periodic testing.
Which Volatile Organic Compounds Appear in This Record and Which Do Not, Named from the Facts
Federal monitoring of the City of Bismarck’s public water system recorded non-detectable levels of the following VOCs across multiple samples: 1,1-dichloroethane, chloromethane, bromomethane, HCFC-22, Halon 1011, 1,3-butadiene, and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). None of these compounds were found above their specific detection levels, measured in micrograms per litre (µg/L) or parts per billion (ppb). Although these VOCs were not detected, other volatile organics not included in this survey may exist in isolated water sources or private wells. Comprehensive testing is needed to identify those.
How the Constituent Enters Groundwater or the Distribution System in This Region
Volatile organic compounds typically enter groundwater through industrial discharge, fuel leaks, agricultural runoff, or atmospheric deposition. In Burleigh County, sources might include historical solvent use, underground storage tank leakage, or surface water infiltration. Because the City of Bismarck’s system relies on surface water, VOCs can potentially enter from upstream contamination events or atmospheric deposition before treatment. However, ongoing monitoring and treatment are designed to address these risks, maintaining compliance with health-based standards.
What a Certified Laboratory Test for This Constituent Reports and How to Read It
Certified laboratory tests for VOCs report concentrations in micrograms per litre (µg/L) or parts per billion (ppb), indicating the mass of compound per volume of water. Results below laboratory reporting levels mean the compound was not detected with the method used, while results above indicate measured concentrations. Since no federal maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) exist for some VOCs, detection alone does not imply a violation or health risk. Interpretation should consider detection limits, local water system monitoring data, and the specific compounds found to assess treatment needs.
How a Gasoline Release Differs from a Dry-Cleaning Release in What It Leaves in Groundwater
Gasoline releases typically introduce a complex mix of VOCs including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes, as well as additives like MTBE, which are more volatile and may degrade or migrate differently in groundwater. Dry-cleaning solvent releases mainly involve chlorinated solvents like perchloroethylene (PCE), which are denser than water and tend to persist longer as groundwater contaminants. The VOC profiles and behavior influence how plumes develop and the treatment methods needed. Understanding the source helps predict which VOCs to test for and manage effectively at the household level.
In summary, this page reviewed federal VOC monitoring data for Burleigh County’s public water system, clarified how seasonal groundwater variations affect solvent plumes near well screens, detailed which VOCs were sampled and found below detection limits, described typical entry pathways into groundwater, examined how to interpret certified lab test reports, and contrasted gasoline versus dry-cleaning solvent releases. Households replacing failed equipment may consider the Fleck VOCs & Industrial Chemicals Filter, which ships ready to configure and is designed to address VOCs and associated industrial chemicals effectively.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2014-02-11. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for City of Bismarck (ND0800080), ND: 28 results across 7 listed contaminants, 0 detections above the reporting level; nothing detected above the method reporting level
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