NS Tests Over 100 Private Wells

In an attempt to put residents' minds at ease, Norfolk Southern, the company responsible for the toxic spill here three weeks ago, tested over a 100 private wells in the immediate area of the wreck.

According to a press release from Norfolk Southern, wells tested in Gardeau and Driftwood revealed "acceptable pH levels," meaning human beings may drink from them.

None of the wells were found to be out of the normal range for pH.

Norfolk Southern voluntarily tested wells on property where the owner had made an official request for the test. Tests were taken on private in many locations between Gardeau and Driftwood, according to NS spokespeople.

The 42,000 gallons of sodium hydroxide spilled into the stream when 29 train boxcars and cars derailed near the village of Gardeau in McKean County.

"We sincerely regret the enviromental damage resulting from the derailment, as well as the inconvience experienced by residents of McKean and Cameron counties," a press release said.

Norfolk Southern's enviromental firm, said it had recorded Ph levels of the stream water of 14 in the days following the crash.