Dalapon (2,2-Dichloropropionic Acid)

EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL)

0.2 mg/L

Dalapon is an herbicide used to control grasses around fruit, bean, corn, cotton and pea crops. It's also used in lawns, roadways and industrial areas.

Dalapon arrives in water mostly through its uses on rights of way.

Health Effects of Dalapon

The Extension Toxicology Network reports that dalapon is a moderately toxic irritant that is not known to cause cancer. Studies have shown a link between long term exposure and increased kidney weight.

According to the EPA:

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Some people who drink water containing dalapon well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience minor kidney changes.

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Water Treatment for Dalapon

The EPA recommends granular activated carbon (GAC) for the treatment of dalapon.

Source: EPA, EPA (2), EXTOXNET, Photo: geograph.org.uk, author: Walter Baxter