Where:
Supai, Arizona

Problem:
Havasupai operators needed training to properly operate and maintain a new arsenic filtration water treatment plant.

Solution:
RCAC staff provided training and technical assistance.

Arsenic contamination in water poses multiple health risks. To provide safe water to the Village of Supai in Supai, Arizona, Indian Health Service constructed an arsenic filtration water treatment plant to help reduce the arsenic concentration in their four groundwater wells. However, they needed training to ensure that the new plant is properly operated and maintained.

RCAC receives funding from EPA Region 9 to provide on-site training and technical assistance to Native water operators in Arizona and California so that they can ensure the quality of drinking water in their communities. In Supai, staff provided on-site group training and direct technical assistance and also provided guidance via telephone to Supai treatment plant operators. RCAC staff taught the operators how to conduct daily system inspections, record water flows and pressure and conduct regulatory water sampling. In addition, the Native water operators gained a basic understanding of hydraulics, pressurized treatment systems and filter system maintenance. The arsenic treatment plant was put into operation in August, 2014 and due to the operator training, the arsenic levels are below the maximum contaminant level (MCL).