SANTA FE — Earlier this month, Jason Herman of the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) Ground Water Quality Bureau offered his expertise by providing a state perspective on an article written by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) scientists.

The article, titled “A disposable acetylcholine esterase sensor for As(III) determination in groundwater matrix based on 4-acetoxyphenol hydrolysis,” describes a disposable field sensor developed by the researchers that can easily and inexpensively detect arsenic in water samples.

Some groundwater in New Mexico has high levels of naturally occurring arsenic, and, currently, detecting arsenic in water samples is a time-consuming and expensive process. The new test could make a big difference for environmental agencies and local utilities measuring contamination in groundwater, drinking water, or other sources.

Jason reviewed the final article and provided expert feedback regarding some of the specific and unique considerations for sample collection in New Mexico. He also provided input on the viability of the proposed methods as field-ready when used in rural communities.

“I am proud of Jason’s contributions to this EPA effort,” said NMED Cabinet Secretary James Kenney. “New Mexicans like Jason contribute to science and technology that is applicable around the world.”