IIn restoring access to the spring, we believe the town needs to become fully engaged in a process that will ensure the safety of those who choose to drink this water. This endeavor need not be complicated. It would include a testing program to monitor the water and the creation of a gathering station properly set up to handle the flow of folks to the site. Access to the water should begin immediately while the following actions are taking place.

Since there has been so much misinformation about the quality of the water emerging from the spring, we want the Town of Huntington to begin a comprehensive testing program. The first step should be a twice weekly test of the water for a period of six weeks. One test should be done at the same time every week, i.e., every Monday at 10:00am. The second weekly test should be done randomly, picking a different day and hour each week. By utilizing this approach, we will be able to establish a baseline of quality from the same-day weekly test. The random test will help evaluate whether or not the water quality really does change significantly. After the six weeks, the testing pattern should be reduced to a random once a week for four weeks. After that, a monthly or bimonthly test should be sufficient.

The test results should be posted at the well site. It would include the date of the test and the highlights of what was found. A complete copy of the test should then be posted on the Town's website and also available via mail by a written request or phone call for those who may not have a computer. A sign at the site should be erected stating the following:

WARNING!
The Town of Huntington provides this access site to the general public as a service. The test results posted here are offered as a source of information but are not an endorsement by the Town as to the suitability of this water for human consumption. If you choose to drink this water, be advised that you do so At Your Own Risk. The Town of Huntington cannot guarantee the water quality and by this notice is hereby stating it is not liable for any consequences caused by its consumption.

The establishing of a gathering station is a simple task. Basically, a PVC pipe structure could be built with four dispensing spouts. Having a secure structure with multiple spouts allows for more than one person at a time to gather their water. This will speed up the process and alleviate any congestion at the site. The area below the filling spouts should be a large tray pitched towards the harbor. All water flowing up through the spouts that is not being collected will run off into the harbor as would normally occur. This will prevent the buildup of ice in the collection area during the winter. A number of independent contractors have offered up their services to build this structure, so it can be done with no expense to the town.

Since there is more than one spring outlet in the vicinity, we recommend that the one emanating from the bulkhead below the fence on the harbor side of Billy Joel Park be used. The current placement of two large slate squares at this point indicate that it was a favorite gathering point in the past. It is an appropriate, convenient, and safe place to use.