Environmental Toxins: Benzene, MTBE Found in Ground Water

High levels of benzene and methyl tertiary-butyl ether, also known as MTBE, have been found in the ground water under a Citgo gas station in Monrovia, Maryland. Both MTBE and benzene are gasoline additives. There is no indication that the chemicals have spread. All properties within a half-mile of the Green Valley Citgo will receive results of the sampling.

Benzene, MTBE Leak Found In Ground Water

Benzene is a known carcinogen. It was found at a level of 66 parts per billion, which is about 13 times the Environmental Protection Agency's maximum acceptable level. MTBE was found at a level of 59,000 parts per billion, which is thousands of times higher than the EPA's acceptable limit. While MTBE's effect on human health has not yet been established, it is believed to be a carcinogen.