Agawam Water Department

Health information regarding municipal water, including bottled varieties, indicates that small amounts of various contaminants may be present. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For detailed information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

Certain populations may have increased vulnerability to water contaminants compared to the general public. Individuals with compromised immune systems from conditions like chemotherapy, organ transplants, HIV/AIDS, elderly persons, and infants may face heightened risks from infections. These individuals should seek advice from healthcare providers regarding their water consumption. EPA/CDC guidelines for reducing infection risks from cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available through the Safe Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

Elevated lead levels, if present, can cause serious health complications, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in tap water primarily comes from service line materials and household plumbing components. While Agawam Department of Public Works provides quality water, they cannot control materials used in plumbing fixtures. To minimize lead exposure, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for cooking or drinking if it has been sitting unused. If concerned about lead, consider water testing. Information about lead in water, testing methods, and exposure reduction is available through the Safe Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Coliform bacteria naturally occur in the environment and serve as indicators for potentially harmful bacteria. E. coli bacteria indicate possible contamination from human or animal waste. Pathogens in these wastes can cause temporary symptoms like diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other issues. They pose greater risks to infants, young children, elderly individuals, and those with severely compromised immune systems.

Water Quality Information
Municipal water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, and may pick up substances from animal presence or human activity.

Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) occurring naturally or from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants including synthetic and volatile compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants occurring naturally or resulting from oil/gas production and mining activities

The EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safe drinking water. FDA regulations set similar limits for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

Agawam must collect at least 30 water samples monthly from locations throughout town and test for coliform bacteria. The treated municipal water distributed by Agawam Water Department originates from surface water in Blandford and Granville, Massachusetts. Two reservoir systems supply this water: Cobble Mountain Reservoir (Source ID #1281000-02S) and Borden Brook Reservoir (Source ID #1281000-04S). A source water assessment by Massachusetts DEP assigned a medium susceptibility rating based on collected data.

In October 2015, MassDEP conducted a sanitary survey examining water sources, facilities, equipment, treatment, and maintenance processes. This comprehensive review evaluates the system's ability to produce and distribute safe drinking water. The 2015 survey identified no corrective measures needed.

During 2017, the Water Department replaced water mains on Field Avenue, Wright Street, and Emerson Street.

1. How can I improve my water pressure? Pressure can be increased by replacing old galvanized pipes with PVC and enlarging existing plumbing. (Recommended sizes: 1" service line from meter to house and 3/4" line inside house).
2. Can my pressure be adjusted at the meter? No. Water pressure can be reduced at your pressure regulator inside the house.
3. How is my sewer bill calculated? It's based on the volume of metered water used. (See our rate schedule.)
4. Can I receive a reduced rate when filling my swimming pool since that water doesn't enter the sewer system? No. We maintain a maximum 10,000 gallon cap on sewer charges.
5. Will there be a service charge if I need assistance after hours or on weekends/holidays? If it's a sewer issue on your service line (from main connection to house), there WILL be a $70.00 service charge. If you request after-hours water shut-off at the meter due to a leak on your service line, a service charge WILL apply.
6. What should I do if I experience discolored water? Run COLD water in your bathtub or outdoor spigot for 3-5 minutes. If water doesn't begin to clear within this timeframe, please contact us.
7. What pressure adjustments can homeowners make? Each household should have a pressure regulator on the incoming water line. This device can decrease incoming pressure but cannot increase it. If you notice reduced pressure, consider having a plumber inspect your regulator.
8. What steps should I take if I have a water leak? During normal business hours, call 273-3456 for City of Maryville staff to shut off your water. (After-hours service incurs a fee - call promptly if you suspect a leak.) Contact your plumber for repairs to your line. The City handles meter leaks and supply lines from meter to street side. After repairs are completed, call 273-3456 to restore water service. Note that water meters are City property and should only be operated by City personnel.