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The 435th Aeromedical Squadron Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight
collected more than 960 bacteriological and more than 300 chemical
drinking water samples in 2005 from the 12 drinking water systems under
the 435th Air Base Wing jurisdiction in the KMC. All samples were in
compliance with the Final Governing Standards for Germany.
The KMC draws all its drinking water from wells several hundred feet
below ground. Water is pumped from these wells, treated and then
distributed to our communities to ensure we are never without a source
of potable water.
The 735th and 435th Civil Engineer Squadron’s Water Plant and Exterior
Utility sections operate and maintain the KMC water distribution
equipment and systems. CES personnel work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
to ensure the system is pressurized and maintains sufficient chlorine
residual. CES personnel conduct daily operational monitoring to
maintain the high quality of their final product – our drinking water.
The 435th Medical Group routinely monitors water quality throughout the
system. Each week Bioenvironmental Engineering tests chlorine and
pH levels, and collects water samples for bacteriological and chemical
analysis. All routine monitoring requirements are conducted in
accordance with the FGS-G.
The FGS-G defines the parameters to be monitored (most stringent
US/German requirements), the sampling frequency, the maximum
concentration level (MCL), the notification procedures, and what
processes should be initiated if non-compliance is detected (i.e.
treatment techniques, bottled water issuance, etc).
The U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine at
Landstuhl, a German and U.S. certified/accredited laboratory, performs
most of the analytical requirements.
The 435th ABW routinely monitors for over 100 drinking water
parameters. Due to the exceptional quality of the groundwater source,
treatment is for the most part, unnecessary. Chlorination is
accomplished because it provides a measurable means of ensuring that
water is properly disinfected. All water sources are chlorinated, and
some water sources are filtered. This is done to ensure the safest,
most aesthetically pleasing product for consumers. In 2005 there was
one slightly elevated nitrate level in Ramstein water system II,
located on the flightline. Public notification was made and subsequent
quarterly samples have been low.
Although the base does not hold public meetings on its distribution
systems, avenues are available to address any questions or concerns
consumers may have. Housing residents should contact the Housing
Office at 489-6643 with any water concerns. Dorm residents should
contact the building manager.
Additional questions can be directed to the 435th AMDS Bioenvironmental Engineering at 479-2220 or 06371-46-2220.
(Courtesy of the 435th Medical Group – Bioenvironmental Engineering)
