Tainted Water in Town Near Green Bay Remains a Mystery

"CHASE, Wisc. -- Federal environmental regulators have joined an investigation into drinking water supplies tainted by elevated levels of a chemical used to make plastic products.

The problem in this Oconto County community first was detected last year at Sunnyside Elementary School and prompted school authorities to begin supplying bottled water to students, teachers and staff.

But tests this summer showed that the same contaminant was turning up in private homeowner wells, leading investigators to question whether the situation was more widespread.

Although officials say there is no health hazard to Chase residents, a chemical commonly known as DEHP has been detected at the school and elsewhere at more than six times the maximum level permitted by federal law.

What is most perplexing to investigators is that they can find no nearby factory, landfill or other operation that might represent a source."

Scott Cooper Williams reports for the Green Bay Press-Gazette November 6, 2011.