Project ID: 2005ID51B

Title: A Reconnaissance Study of Arsenic Distribution in the Shallow Aquifer of the Treasure Valley: Year 2

Project Type: Research

Start Date: 03/01/2006

End Date: 09/30/2007

Congressional District: 01

Focus Categories: Water Quality, Toxic Substances, Hydrogeochemistry

Keywords: arsenic, groundwater, contamination, Idaho

Principal Investigator: Benner, Shawn

Federal Funds: $25,125

Non-Federal Matching Funds: $30,000

Abstract: Perhaps the greatest emerging threat to water quality in Idaho is naturally occurring elevated arsenic in our groundwater based drinking water supplies. In the most populated region of the state, the Treasure Valley, more than 40% of all tested drinking water wells exceed the new arsenic standard. The distribution of arsenic in the groundwaters of southeast Idaho is complex and not well understood and the mechanism of release has not been identified. This project will examine existing hydrologic and geochemical datasets and sample additional groundwater wells in a strongly leveraged research effort coordinated with local state agencies. It is anticipated that this project will lead to significant future funded research opportunities at the local, state and federal level.

Progress/Completion Report, PDF