The City of Battle Creek announced on Apr. 2 that a maximum contaminant level (MCL) violation for total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) continues to affect Emmett Township and certain areas of Pennfield Township that receive water from the city system.
This notice is important because it clarifies which customers are affected by the violation. While residents in Battle Creek and Springfield are included in notifications due to shared water sources, the MCL violation under federal drinking water regulations applies only to Emmett Township and specific portions of Pennfield Township.
According to the city, an updated public notice with detailed test results has been mailed to impacted customers. The full notice is also available on the city’s website. The city emphasized, “This is not an immediate health emergency. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. Drinking water remains safe for normal use.” However, officials noted that long-term exposure to elevated TTHM levels may pose health risks, particularly for people with compromised immune systems, infants, or older adults who may wish to consult their healthcare provider.
Recent sampling shows variation in TTHM levels by location; some individual results are below federal standards but compliance is determined by a running annual average that still reflects earlier elevated results. Public-notice requirements will remain until compliance is achieved throughout all affected portions of the system.
The city explained that TTHMs form when chlorine used in disinfection reacts with naturally occurring organic material in source water. Elevated levels were first identified in late 2024 and increased after early 2025 sampling. Ongoing construction at Verona Well Field—including well replacement work—has contributed by increasing organic material during drilling operations.
To address this issue, Battle Creek said it continues working closely with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Corrective actions include operational evaluations, treatment adjustments, distribution-system management strategies such as targeted hydrant flushing, expanded monitoring efforts, and bringing new wells online at Verona Well Field as final approvals are received.
For questions about health concerns related to drinking water quality or sampling details, residents can contact either the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Toxicology and Environmental Health Hotline or Cassie Allen at the City of Battle Creek Water Division.
