ADAMS, Mass. — A recent routine test of the town's well water revealed elevated sodium levels, prompting officials to urge at-risk residents to take precautions while further testing is conducted to determine the cause.

 

The point-of-entry sample measured 40.7 milligrams per liter of sodium in the combined flow from all three wells; double the state Department of Environmental Protection's guideline for high risk individuals. 

 

Point-of–entry samples of sodium are required to be taken every three years, Water Department Superintendent John Barrett said.

 

"Sodium is naturally occurring, but not at that kind of level," he said. 

 

While sodium is an essential mineral for normal body function, elevated levels may pose risks for individuals with certain medical conditions, including kidney and heart disease.

 

It is not regulated under the state's maximum contaminant level standards, but the DEP requires that all suppliers inform the state and local Board of Health when levels are elevated above 20 milligrams per liter to ensure anyone on a sodium-restricted diet are informed. 

 

During the Prudential Committee meeting on Monday, Board of Health Chair Kathy Hynes emphasized the need to inform residents even though there are no strict guidelines by the state Environmental Protection Agency.