An area of contaminated water in downtown Roswell is being considered for addition on the Superfund National Priorities List.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says several dry cleaning businesses had operated there from 1956 and 1963. It's now a mix of residential and commercial use.
The agency says the contaminant of concern is a colorless, nonflammable liquid used by the dry cleaning industry. It's been detected in the alluvial aquifers underlying a portion of downtown Roswell.
The agency says it poses a threat to the municipal and private drinking water supplies but not anytime in the near future.
The EPA said Monday that it will work closely with the state of New Mexico and seek public comment before determining whether to list the Roswell site.
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