Brownstown Township

About Our System
The Great Lakes Water Authority delivers municipal water to approximately 5.2 million residents across 126 southeastern Michigan communities, including Brownstown Township. The system draws water from two intakes in the Detroit River: one northern intake near Lake St. Clair and one southern intake near Lake Erie. This water is then directed to four large treatment facilities for processing. (A fifth water treatment facility in St. Clair County uses surface water directly from Lake Huron.)

Brownstown receives its water from the Southwest Water Treatment Plant, which sources from the Detroit River. The treatment process begins with disinfecting source water using chlorine to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Next, Alum is added to remove fine particles causing turbidity. This chemical causes particles to clump together and settle at the bottom. Fluoride is added to protect teeth from cavities and decay.

The water then passes through sand filters to remove additional debris and chlorine-resistant bacteria. Finally, small amounts of phosphoric acid and chlorine are added before distribution. Phosphoric acid helps control lead that might dissolve from household plumbing, while chlorine maintains disinfection throughout the distribution network.

Water Quality Monitoring
In addition to the carefully controlled treatment process, water is tested for numerous substances before treatment, during various treatment stages, and throughout the distribution system. Highly qualified staff test hundreds of samples weekly in GLWA-certified laboratories. GLWA water meets all safety and health standards and ranks among the top ten nationally for quality and value.

Source Water Assessment
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, in partnership with Detroit Water and Sewerage Department and other governmental agencies, conducted a source water assessment in 2005 to determine contamination susceptibility. The Detroit River water intakes were determined to be highly vulnerable to potential contamination. However, all Detroit water treatment plants have historically provided satisfactory treatment to meet drinking water standards.

GLWA has implemented source water protection measures including chemical containment, spill response, and a mercury reduction program. GLWA participates in a State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit program and maintains an emergency response management plan. In 2016, GLWA developed and received approval for a source water protection program for Detroit River intakes covering eight critical elements.

For more information about the Source Water Assessment or protection program, contact GLWA at 1-844-455-GLWA.

Water Safety Information

Is my tap water safe to drink?
Brownstown Township's water meets all EPA standards, but certain contaminants may be present at low levels. Individuals with compromised immune systems should consult their physicians about additional precautions.

What causes water hardness in our area?
Water hardness results from naturally occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium dissolving in water as it passes through soil and rock formations. Brownstown's water is considered moderately hard, which may affect appliance efficiency and soap effectiveness.

How often is our water tested?
Township water undergoes continuous monitoring with hundreds of samples tested weekly for biological, chemical, and radiological contaminants to ensure compliance with all health standards.

What should I do if I notice a change in my water?
If you observe unusual color, odor, or taste in your tap water, contact the Brownstown Township Water Department at 734-675-4000 to report the issue.