Treatment Upgrade Completed at Illinois American Water’s Plant in Hardin

Major upgrades have been completed at Illinois American Water’s water treatment plant in Hardin. A $500,000 investment in the installation of a sodium permanganate chemical feed system was completed last fall.

According to Sarah Bowman, Senior Operations Manager, Central Division of Illinois American Water, the groundwater source of water supply in Hardin has high levels of natural iron and manganese. Sodium permanganate has been added to the water treatment strategy to effectively reduce both iron and manganese levels.

“The completed installation of the sodium permanganate feed system is an exciting step in improving the aesthetic water quality issues (taste, odor) in the Hardin community’s water system,” said Bowman.

Another strategic step taken at the Hardin water treatment plant last fall was a review and overhaul of the filtration system that included replacement and repairs to the filter media. Additional work on the water plant’s filter system will be completed in 2025.

According to Bowman, in early 2025, feedback from the Hardin community is positive, now that the water treatment process is effectively removing high levels of iron and manganese.

Widman Construction of Godfrey was the contractor of the project. The cost of the project was an estimated $500,000. All work on the project was completed by union employees.

Illinois American Water continuously monitors and tests the drinking water in the Village of Hardin. Ongoing tests confirm the water in Hardin is safe and meets water quality standards.

Illinois American Water’s local team continues to work with the local fire department on maintaining high-quality fire protection and public safety in the Hardin community. In 2024, Illinois American Water replaced 17 fire hydrants in the Village of Hardin and three additional, new hydrants were installed. In addition, 39 new valves were replaced in the community’s water distribution system.

Illinois American Water acquired the Village of Hardin water and wastewater systems in June 2022.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water's 6,500 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

Illinois American Water acquired the Village of Hardin water and wastewater systems in June 2022.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Illinois American Water

Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.4 million people. American Water also operates a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville.

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