Search Frequent Questions

Displaying 1 - 15 of 23 results

• Will boiling my water help?

  No. Boiling water will NOT reduce nitrate levels. In fact, it will make the level of nitrate worse because some of the water will evaporate but the nitrate will not. This increases the concentration of nitrate in water.

  • Last published: November 26, 2024

• My neighbor is re-siding and re-roofing his house and there is material all over the ground. Do I need to be worried about asbestos exposure?

  Not all house siding or roofing materials contain asbestos. If you are concerned the material might contain asbestos, you can ask your neighbor whether or not the material has been tested for asbestos. Federal regulations regarding renovations or demolitions of asbestos-containing materials do not apply to a homeowner’s renovation of…

  • Last published: May 1, 2024

• How do I know if I have asbestos in my home (in floor tile, ceiling tile, shingles, siding, etc.)?

  The only way to be sure whether a material contains asbestos is to have it tested by a qualified laboratory. EPA only recommends testing suspect materials if they are damaged (fraying, crumbling) or if you are planning a renovation that would disturb the suspect material. Samples should be taken by…

  • Last published: May 1, 2024

• Is it safe to shower or bathe in water if it is over the nitrate MCL of 10 mg/L?

  Nitrate is only a concern for ingestion (eating and drinking). It is not absorbed through your skin. People who install filter systems for nitrate often install them just for their kitchen sink faucet, and they use that faucet for their cooking and drinking water.

  • Last published: November 26, 2024

• What is EPA doing?

  EPA is working with its governmental partners and other stakeholders to investigate and address the issue. Most recently, EPA issued a letter to the state of Minnesota requesting a plan of action to address nitrate contamination in drinking water.

  • Last published: November 26, 2024

• What should I do if my water has elevated nitrates and/or exceeds the MCL?

  If nitrate exceeds the MCL of 10 mg/L, you should find a safe alternative drinking water supply. The quickest thing to do is to begin using bottled water for drinking. Another option is to install a treatment that will remove nitrate from your water such as reverse osmosis or a…

  • Last published: November 26, 2024

• Why is nitrate contamination a concern?

  Nitrate is an acute contaminant, meaning that health effects can occur immediately (I.e. within hours or days) of short-term exposure. Too much nitrate in your body makes it harder for red blood cells to carry oxygen. While most people recover quickly, this can be very dangerous for infants and some…

  • Last published: November 26, 2024

• How can residents communicate with EPA about activities at the Norwood Landfill site?

  This EPA website ( www.epa.gov/norwood ) is dedicated to the investigations in the Norwood community. We encourage you to use the site and submit any questions you might have through the form that appears on the website. We also welcome any feedback you might have on the webpage.

  • Last published: February 19, 2025

• Where can residents get the most accurate and up-to-date information on the Norwood Landfill site?

  The www.epa.gov/norwood website is the site with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding EPA’s investigations in the Norwood community.

  • Last published: February 18, 2025

• How do I have my drinking water tested in the future?

  Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends you use an accredited laboratory to test your water. Contact an accredited laboratory to get sample containers and instructions or ask your county environmental or public health services if they provide well testing services. Accredited Labs in Minnesota Accepting Drinking Water Samples from Private…

  • Last published: November 26, 2024

• I have changed my brakes in the past, should I be worried about asbestos exposure?

  Because some, but not all, automotive brakes and clutches available or in use today may contain asbestos, professional automotive technicians and home mechanics who repair and replace brakes and clutches can potentially be exposed to asbestos dust. Brake and clutch dust can be seen when a brake disk, drum, clutch…

  • Last published: March 21, 2024

• Does the EPA have money available for homeowners to pay for asbestos testing or asbestos removal?

  The EPA does not have funding available to homeowners for asbestos testing or removal. Other Frequent Questions about Asbestos Learn About Asbestos Asbestos and School Buildings Information for Owners and Managers of Buildings that Contain Asbestos Protect Your Family from Exposures to Asbestos Asbestos Contaminated Vermiculite Insulation

  • Last published: May 1, 2024

• I'm remodeling my home. Do I need to be concerned about asbestos in the building materials?

  It's not possible for you to tell whether a material in your home contains asbestos simply by looking at it. If you suspect a material within your home might contain asbestos (for example floor tile, ceiling tile or old pipe wrap) and the material is damaged (fraying or falling apart)…

  • Last published: May 1, 2024

• Does dry wall or sheet rock contain asbestos?

  There is no way to know whether these materials contain asbestos without having them tested. If you are concerned those materials in your home may contain asbestos and the materials are damaged (frayed, falling apart) or if you are performing a renovation that will disturb the material, consult with a…

  • Last published: May 24, 2024

• If I want to talk with EPA about sampling on my property or ask a specific question about my property, who should I contact?

  Please contact Katie Page, EPA Community Involvement Coordinator, at 215-814-2409 or [email protected] to ask any questions related to your property.

  • Last published: June 17, 2024