Battle Creek is issuing a public notice about a drinking water standard violation that affects Emmett Township and some parts of Pennfield Township.

The problem involves total trihalomethanes (TTHMs), which were found at levels above the maximum allowed by federal regulations. This violation does not affect the entire city.

Residents of Battle Creek and Springfield are receiving notifications because they share the same water source, but the violation is specific to Emmett Township and certain areas of Pennfield Township, according to a community announcement.

This is not an immediate health emergency. There is no need to boil water or take other corrective actions. Drinking water remains safe for normal use.

Long-term exposure to high TTHM levels may pose health risks, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems, infants or older adults. The city will notify the public within 24 hours if the water becomes unsafe.

Recent water testing shows that TTHM levels vary by location, with some results below the federal standard. However, compliance is determined by a running annual average, so earlier elevated results still count toward the regulatory determination.

Public notice requirements will remain in effect until compliance is achieved.

TTHMs are formed when chlorine, used to disinfect drinking water, reacts with organic material. Elevated levels were first identified in Emmett Township in late 2024 and expanded after sampling in early 2025.

Ongoing construction and rehabilitation at the Verona Well Field have contributed to the issue. Well replacement requires pumping large volumes of water, which can temporarily increase organic material in the source water and affect disinfection needs.

The city is working with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) to address the issue. They are conducting operational evaluations, making treatment adjustments, managing the distribution system, flushing hydrants and expanding monitoring.

Long-term improvements are underway. Four newly constructed wells were put into service at the Verona Well Field in early March 2026, according to the announcement.

Additional wells will be brought online in phases once final approvals are received.

Residents with health-related questions can contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Toxicology and Environmental Health Hotline at 800-648-6942.

For questions about the water system or sampling, residents can reach out to Cassie Allen, water superintendent for the City of Battle Creek, at 269-966-3355 ext. 1827.

Detailed information about the test results and affected locations is available on the city's website at bcparks.org/1/Home.