Water Test Results and New DEP Permits Released for MES Project
New Permits and Water Test Results Released for Millville Elementary School
As construction continues on the Millville Elementary School water project, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has released two important technology approvals—alongside updated water testing results for the school’s drinking water system.
These newly available documents offer a clearer view into what’s happening behind the scenes, even as official construction updates remain limited. The most recent public confirmation came during the BMR School Committee meeting, where it was announced that construction would begin July 15 with a target completion date of October 15. The next meeting to discuss MES Water updates is scheduled for August 21, the next BMR School Committee meeting.
In the meantime, here’s what’s new:
MassDEP Approves New Water Treatment Technologies
Two MassDEP technology permits, issued on July 28 and 29, officially authorize the installation of critical systems designed to improve water quality at the school:
Total Organic Carbon (TOC) Reduction System
Approved on July 28, this system uses an ENPRESS Vortech® vessel filled with ATOMUS® MDI media. It’s designed to:
- Reduce TOC levels below 2 mg/L.
- Assist in the removal of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).
- Improve the overall quality of treated water.
This system also aims to reduce disinfection byproducts that form when chlorine reacts with organic matter.
PFAS Removal System
Approved on July 29, this system features a dual Applied Cartridge System (ACS) setup using ATOMUS PF8 cartridges with DEXORB media. This specialized media:
- Targets and removes both long- and short-chain PFAS compounds
- Uses advanced cyclodextrin-based technology for molecular-level filtering
- Can treat over 350,000 gallons per cartridge under typical conditions
Both systems require pilot testing, weekly monitoring, and adherence to plumbing and safety standards as part of the approval.
Q2 Water Test Results Reveal Elevated Copper
On July 28, the Blackstone Millville Regional School District also posted Quarter 2 Water Results for the Millville Elementary School. Ten samples were taken in June 2025, with results showing:
- Lead: 0.0139 ppm — below the action level of 0.015 ppm.
- Copper: 1.42 ppm — above the action level of 1.3 ppm.
While the lead result is within safe limits, the copper level is above the federal threshold, triggering regulatory attention. The town has not issued any advisory, but the report includes precautions such as:
- Flushing taps before using.
- Using only cold, fresh water for drinking, cooking or preparing baby formula.
- Do not boil the water to remove lead or copper.
These test results reinforce the need for the improvements being implemented as part of the Millville Elementary School water project.
What Happens Next?
The next opportunity for a public update is the BMR School Committee meeting on August 21, where community members may hear more about progress and timelines. Until then, the release of these documents helps fill in the gaps and demonstrate continued momentum toward completing the Millville Elementary School water project by the committed October 15 deadline.
At Small Town Post, we believe local infrastructure stories—like the Millville Elementary School water project—deserve clarity and attention. These efforts directly impact the health, safety, and future of our students and families. Our mission is to make sure important updates don’t go unnoticed. If you have questions, local insights, or community news to share, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us anytime.
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