Changes at Twin Lakes Campground

Warren, Pa. – Marienville District Ranger Rob Fallon has announced that the potable water system in the lower loop of the Twin Lakes Campground will be shut off for 2010 camping season.

Twin Lakes Campground is a US Forest Service facility in the Allegheny National Forest. It is located in Jones Township of Elk County, Pennsylvania. The Campground is operated for the Forest Service as part of a Special Use Permit by concessionaire Allegheny Site Management.

Recent routine tests of the water systems that feed the lower loop at Twin Lakes Campground revealed above normal levels of barium. Barium is a silvery-white metal which exists in nature only in ores containing mixtures of elements. It combines with other chemicals such as sulfur or carbon and oxygen to form barium compounds. Barium compounds are used to make drilling muds which make it easier to drill through rock by keeping the drill bit lubricated. They are also used to make paint, bricks, ceramics, glass, and rubber.

Exposure to barium occurs mostly in the workplace or from drinking contaminated water. Ingesting drinking water containing levels of barium above the EPA drinking water guidelines for relatively short periods of time can cause gastrointestinal disturbances and muscle weakness. Ingesting high levels for a long time can damage the kidneys.

The Twin Lakes Campground lower loop pressure water system was restricted to wash and shower water in July of 2009 when routine tests revealed barium in excess of safe levels. Following initial tests in 2010, Ranger Fallon decided to shut down all use of water in the lower loop – this includes the pressure system and a hand pump. This means there will be no showers, wash basins or potable water in the lower loop for the upcoming camping season. Campers will be able to obtain potable water in the upper loop and at the bathhouse as these areas are on a different water source that is unaffected. The dump station at Twin Lakes will also remain functional.

The Allegheny National Forest and Allegheny Site Management appreciate the patience of the public as we explore options for addressing the availability of water for use in the lower loop.

Any questions or comments regarding this decision and possible options should be directed to District Ranger Rob Fallon at 814-927-5799 or via email at rfallon@fs.fed.us.

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