Congressman Moylan Applauds EPA Commitment to Yigo Water Cleanup, Continues Federal Coordination Efforts

(Hagåtña, Guam) - Congressman James Moylan today welcomed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) formal commitment of funding, technical expertise, and compliance support to accelerate the cleanup of dieldrin contamination in Yigo's water supply. The announcement follows sustained coordination between Congressman Moylan's office, the Governor's team, and federal agencies to secure emergency resources for over 1,100 affected households.

"This is a critical step forward," said Congressman Moylan. "EPA's commitment validates the urgency of our outreach and the strength of our partnership with the Governor's Office. Our team will continue pressing for swift implementation and transparent communication to ensure families in Yigo have access to safe drinking water."

GWA may utilize EPA's Emerging Contaminant Grant to finance these installations and accelerate construction of a permanent Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) system.

Federal Coordination Highlights:
• EPA Region 9 is relocating two GAC units to treat Well Y-15, expected to be operational within weeks. EPA is also working with GWA to expedite a permanent GAC system originally scheduled for 2026.
• EPA's formal commitment includes funding, monitoring, technical guidance, and support for Guam's Dieldrin Interim Action Level Rule implementation. EPA will also help establish protocols for lifting the current "Do Not Drink Without Treatment" advisory once safety thresholds are met.
• GWA has deployed fill stations in Yigo and is pursuing centralized treatment options. The utility is also working with EPA on potential reimbursements for treatment systems purchased by residents.
• FEMA and USACE have been engaged by Congressman Moylan's office for supplemental support. USACE has yet to respond.
• Military coordination is underway between GWA and Joint Region Marianas to explore federally-controlled water systems and equipment.

The EPA's announcement follows the Acting Governor's emergency declaration, which unlocked $250,000 in local mitigation funds and established testing and reporting requirements. In a letter to Congressman Moylan, Acting Governor Tenorio emphasized the importance of federal advocacy, writing: "Your leadership and advocacy will make a meaningful difference in helping us safeguard the health and well-being of our residents." Congressman Moylan's office remains fully engaged with federal partners and local stakeholders to ensure timely updates, resource deployment, and long-term remediation.

"We are unified in this effort," said Moylan. "This is about protecting families, restoring trust, and delivering results."

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