MERRIMAC (WKOW) -- The public is invited to attend an open house meeting to learn more about the U.S. Army's plans to phase out a drinking water treatment system near the Badger Army Ammunition Plant to replace it with a municipal drinking water system.
The open house on Thursday evening will allow residents to talk with Army officials and developers to learn more about the proposed project that would cover the towns of Merrimac, Prairie du Sac and Sumpter.
The Army plans to phase out the groundwater treatment system saying it's run its course, but with concerns over drinking water safety, they've proposed to pay for a municipal water system that would cover 270 homes in Merrimac, Sumpter and Prairie du Sac: the water areas hit with contamination plumes.
Many residents are not happy with the plan, some think it would be too expensive for farmers, others who believe it doesn't solve the root of the problem. But Army officials want people to learn more about their plans.
"People are eager to learn more and this is their opportunity," stated Joan Kenney, Commander's Representative, U.S. Army. "We have a great plan that provides residents clean water, improves fire protection and the area's overall quality of life. A municipal water system would be the best solution for future generations."
The meeting runs from 4:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday at Devil's Head Resort in Merrimac.
