Allen Park

Allen Park Municipal Water Source Information

The water in Allen Park originates from the Detroit River watershed, encompassing Lake St. Clair, Clinton River, Rouge River, and Ecorse River in the United States, as well as portions of the Thames River, Little River, Turkey Creek and Sydenham watersheds in Canada.

In 2004, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality collaborated with the U.S. Geological Survey, Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, and Michigan Public Health Institute to assess source water vulnerability. Their evaluation placed our Detroit River intake at a "high vulnerability" rating on their seven-tier scale, based on geological factors, water chemistry, and contamination sources.

Despite this rating, all four Detroit water treatment facilities have consistently provided properly treated water meeting safety standards. The Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) has implemented protective measures including chemical containment, spill response protocols, and mercury reduction initiatives. They participate in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Program and maintain emergency response strategies.

In 2016, GLWA established a source water protection program (SWIPP) for Detroit River intakes, covering government responsibilities, protection area designation, contamination source identification, management approaches, contingency planning, new facility siting, and public education.

For more information about the Source Water Assessment or SWIPP, please contact your water department at (313) 928-1666.

As required by EPA regulations, we note that all municipal water, including bottled varieties, may contain trace contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more details about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

Some individuals may have increased vulnerability to water contaminants compared to the general population. Those with compromised immune systems—including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants—may face heightened infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their municipal water consumption.

EPA and CDC guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Infants and young children typically have higher sensitivity to lead in water than adults. Your home's lead levels may exceed neighborhood averages due to your plumbing materials. If concerned, consider having your water tested and flushing taps for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption.

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from service line materials and household plumbing components. While GLWA provides quality water, they cannot control plumbing material varieties. After water sits for several hours, minimize lead exposure by flushing taps 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using for drinking or cooking.