Drinking Water and Food Contamination
In 1997, there were 25 Safe Drinking Water Act violations in Stearns County, which is over two times higher in the state. (Minnesota Department of Health, 1997)
1997 food-borne disease complaints: Stearns County-4, Minnesota-388 (MN confirmed cases-22). (Minnesota Department of Health, 1997)
People at risk:
- travelers
- frequent restaurant eaters
- young, old, and immuno-compromised.
Sources of contamination:
- lead
- bacteria
- home- based wells
- sewage
- industrial waste
- farm run-off