Bonney Lake Water Department

Bonney Lake's water system supplies approximately 9 million gallons daily (MGD) from groundwater sources at Victor Comes and Grainger Springs, plus well water from our Tacoma Stage and Ball Park facilities. We maintain supplementary agreements with Tacoma Public Utility for an additional 4 MGD when needed. Our infrastructure includes over 20 million gallons of reservoir storage capacity throughout the system.

A comprehensive Source Water Assessment has been conducted for our region to evaluate water quality before treatment and distribution. This assessment identifies potential contamination sources and helps determine our water system's vulnerability to specific pollutants. To ensure compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the Public Works Operations Department (PW-OPS) implements rigorous monitoring protocols.

During 2017, our water quality program collected and analyzed:

• 480 routine bacteria samples
• 27 bacteria samples for new connections
• 37 engineering samples
• 12 sets of Disinfectant By-Products samples
• 2 comprehensive inorganic chemical assessments

All testing is performed by independent certified laboratories to guarantee the safety of your municipal water. As water travels over land or through subsurface formations, it can pick up various substances including:

• Microbial contaminants from sewage systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic compounds like salts and metals occurring naturally or from urban runoff and industrial activities
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture and residential uses
• Organic chemicals from industrial processes, petroleum products, and septic systems
• Radioactive materials (though none were detected in Bonney Lake's water)

LEAD IN DRINKING WATER
Elevated lead levels can cause serious health complications, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead typically enters drinking water through service line materials and household plumbing components rather than the main water supply. To minimize exposure, run your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking, especially when water has been sitting for several hours. If concerned, consider having your water tested. More information is available at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

SPECIAL HEALTH CONCERNS
Immunocompromised individuals, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, some elderly residents, and infants may face higher risks from certain water contaminants. These individuals should consult healthcare providers regarding appropriate water precautions. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

The risk of Cryptosporidium or Giardia contamination in Bonney Lake's water supply is minimal, as these organisms are not typically found in the surface water sources that supply our system. For water quality concerns, contact Public Works Operations at (253) 447-3101.

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