These web sites have a lot of good info and useful links:

• U.S. EPA’s Office of Underground Storage Tanks

• Oregon DEQ's Underground Storage Tank Program

MTBE (methyl-t-butyl-ether) in Drinking Water. MTBE is a member of a group of chemicals commonly known as fuel oxygenates. Oxygenates are added to fuel to increase its oxygen content. MTBE is used in gasoline throughout the United States to reduce carbon monoxide and ozone levels caused by auto emissions.

Releases of MTBE to ground and surface water can occur through leaking underground storage tanks and pipelines, spills, emissions from marine engines into lakes and reservoirs, and to some extent from air deposition.

If MTBE is a concern for you:

• Drinking Water and MTBE: A guide for private well owners

• Oregon DEQ MTBE Fact Sheet

• Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry - MTBE Fact Sheet.

More Questions?

• Visit the Oregon Health Division for a fact sheet on BTEX--benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes.

• If you are considering testing your well water, you need to locate a lab that tests for Volatile Organic Compounds - List of Certified Labs

This web page was originally developed by Hillary Coulson.

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