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FULLERTON — During the 2012 drought, increased water demand is believed to have introduced oxygen into the aquifer, potentially triggering the release of selenium from clay and bedrock formations. This naturally occurring element has since been detected at levels exceeding federal health standards in the City’s public water supply (PWS) wells.
Currently, only Well No. 99 remains in operation. The City’s other two PWS wells are offline and are scheduled for decommissioning once two new well sites are finalized. As of June 2025, Well No. 99 remains just below the federal Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 50 parts per billion (ppb) for selenium. While selenium is an essential nutrient in small amounts, long-term exposure to concentrations above the MCL may lead to health concerns, including hair or nail loss and circulatory issues.
To secure a safe and sustainable water supply, the City is actively planning the development of two new PWS wells. Community participation in water conservation remains essential, as reduced pumping has been linked to lower selenium concentrations in Well No. 99.
Since July 2023, three technical studies have been completed by LRE Water, with a fourth currently in progress: 1. Selenium Study and Well Siting Analysis – Phase One (January 2024): Groundwater evaluation and water quality sampling from 20 private wells and Well No. 99. Identified priority areas for additional soil and water testing.
2. Fullerton Wellfield Exploration – Phase Two (July 2024): Subsurface investigations at eight locations and evaluation of water quality, resulting in recommendations for test well locations.
3. Fullerton Test Wells – Phase Three (January 2025): Installation of three test wells. One candidate site with good yield and low selenium was identified northwest of the current well.
4. Fullerton Test Wells – Phase Four (ongoing): Drilling of three additional test wells, leading to a second potential site near the Highway 14/22 intersection. A final site may be tested later in summer 2025.
The City remains committed to transparency and public health. Residents are encouraged to conserve water as these efforts continue. For updates and resources, contact the City at 308-536-2428.