The Effect of Trihalomethanes in Contaminating the Major Watersheds of Middle Tennessee

Abstract

We have analyzed the contamination of the three major watersheds in Middle Tennessee (Middle Cumberland River Watershed, Stones River Watershed, and Harpeth River Watershed) by trihalomethanes, such as chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform. These chemicals play an important role in the develop-ment of cancer and adverse reproductive outcomes, and were found to be present above the threshold established by the Environmental Protection Agency. Certain portions of each watershed were found to be contaminated by the trihalomethanes, and deemed un-healthy. The household incomes in the major areas in the three watershed regions were also examined to determine a possible relationship with the level of water contamination. We concluded that income did not necessarily relate to water quality. Specific areas within each watershed that had lower average household incomes were found to have a higher concentration of the trihalomethanes in their drinking water, while other high-income areas were also affected by unhealthy water. However, these effects were random, and the level of contamination remained below the guidelines regulated by the State of Tennessee.