Chemical Manufacturers Fact Sheet

Why should I care about a wellfield?	For many years we believed that our groundwater was protected from contamination by being underground. We now know that substances on the surface can seep down and contaminate our drinking water supply. As Central Indiana grows the only source of additional water will be the groundwater resources. top of page
Am I located in a wellfield? Will I transport in a wellfield?		This sign is located on streets around the boundaries of the Wellfields to let us know that we entering these protected areas. Click here for the " Interactive Wellfield Locator Map." top of page
How does this affect me in the chemical manufacturing & distribution business?	1) If you are careful to contain your contaminants, you will avoid polluting your site, or environs and avoid a potentially expensive clean-up down the road. 2) Voluntary action now will avoid the need for government regulations. 3) Being a good neighbor in your wellfield is good for your business – it will be appreciated by your customers. top of page
What are potential contaminants?	In the chemical industry, leaking storage tanks are an obvious hazard. But don’t forget distribution lines and transportation vessels, such as tanker, and railroad tank cars. Keeping chemicals from the ground is the obvious goal. top of page
Is more required of my business if it’s in a wellfield?	NO. You’re not currently required by regulations to do any more than businesses outside the wellfield do, BUT like all businesses, those within the wellfield are encouraged to keep contaminants from being spilled or poured on the ground. (For building or improvement permits, the Indianapolis. Dept. of Metropolitan Development can help you with special permit regulations.) top of page
What can I do at my place of business, or my customer's place of business, to help protect groundwater?	There are several easy things you can do to help prevent groundwater contamination: If not already done, upgrade your storage tanks to meet federal and state requirements. This usually means some type of secondary containment. Retail chemical sales should only have product inside the business and have containment pans underneath any displays to retain any spills from broken containers. Clean up minor spills (1/2 to 5 gallons) with granular absorbents, such as cat litter, and take it to a City Tox Drops site for proper disposal. Train all store employees on spill prevention and containment. top of page
Where can I get more information?	Marion County Wellfield Education Corporation (MCWEC) 111 Monument Circle, Suite 1950, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204 Phone (317) 464-2219 Fax (317) 464-2217 e-mail: MCWEC1@aol.com top of page