MtBE Remediation

Methyl tertiary-Butyl Ether (MtBE) is a gasoline additive that was used in New Hampshire from the late 1970s until its use was banned in New Hampshire on January 1, 2007. Its high solubility and resistance to biodegradation allow it to travel farther, spread faster and last longer in groundwater than many other contaminants. These factors have attributed to MtBE being one of the most common non-naturally occurring contaminants in groundwater.

The MtBE Remediation Bureau is charged with the responsibility of designing and implementing a comprehensive plan to investigate, clean up and remediate MtBE-contaminated sites. The plan allocates funds for:

1. The investigation and remediation of MtBE contaminated sites.
2. Testing at-risk private drinking water wells within a location radius of contamination source sites.
3. Providing safe, clean drinking water to impacted citizens.
4. Installation and improvement of public water supply infrastructure in areas having significant MtBE contamination.
5. Implementation of measures to prevent further MtBE contamination.

The MtBE Remediation Bureau is also charged with the administration of the Drinking Water and Groundwater Trust Fund (DWGTF) and assisting in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination response.