Buckeye Water District - Ohio River

We're pleased to present this year's Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This document provides information about your water source, its contents, and how it compares to regulatory standards.

The report represents a snapshot of last year's water quality. We're committed to keeping you informed because educated consumers are our best allies.

Special Health Considerations: Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. Those with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, some elderly individuals, and infants—may face higher infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their municipal water consumption. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminant risks are available through the Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).

Water Source Information: Buckeye Water District draws its raw water from the Ohio River. Surface waters are naturally vulnerable to contamination, especially with development along their banks. Consequently, our surface water sources are considered highly susceptible to contamination. Historically, our system has effectively treated this source water to meet drinking water quality standards. We maintain an OEPA-approved Source Water Protection Plan available for review on our website.

Understanding Contaminants: All municipal water, including bottled varieties, typically contains trace amounts of certain contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline.

Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels across land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals, sometimes including radioactive material, and can pick up substances from animal or human activity.

Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) occurring naturally or from urban runoff, industrial wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential use
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic compounds, from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants that occur naturally or result from oil/gas production and mining

To ensure tap water safety, EPA regulations limit certain contaminants in public water systems. FDA regulations establish similar limits for bottled water to provide equal public health protection.

Frequently Asked Questions about Municipal Water Service

1. What is the normal billing cycle? Water meters are read approximately every 28-31 days, with billing cycles beginning and ending mid-month.
2. What should I do if I experience low water pressure? First check your meter and surrounding area for possible leaks. Then contact our office to report the issue so we can investigate further.
3. Why is my water sometimes discolored? Recent repairs may have allowed air to enter the lines, causing a milky appearance. This typically clears after running water for a short period.
4. Does the district charge late fees? Yes, a late fee of $2.00 or 10% of the bill (whichever is greater) applies. Late fees are added the next business day after the 25th due date. If unpaid by the 10th of the following month, service may be disconnected.
5. My water tastes, looks, or smells unusual. Is it safe? All public water systems must maintain minimum disinfectant levels by state law. Our disinfectant levels are tested daily to ensure safety, but aesthetic issues don't always indicate health concerns.
6. Why do particles appear when running hot water? Your water heater likely needs flushing. CAUTION: Manufacturers typically recommend hiring a professional to flush water heaters to prevent injury or damage.
7. Why haven't I received my bill? For new customers, you'll receive your first bill after approximately 30 days of service. For established customers, verify your mailing address is correct on previous bills or contact our customer service department at 330-532-2448.
8. What's a backflow preventer and why do I need one? State law requires all new irrigation systems connected to public water supplies to have backflow prevention devices to protect the public water supply from potential contamination. These devices must be installed by qualified contractors and tested annually by certified testers.
9. What is a CCR report? A Consumer Confidence Report is a mandatory annual document that explains what's in your tap water, including your water source and any detected contaminants. Our current CCR is available on our website or at our office.
10. Why is my bill higher than usual? Common causes include leaks (running toilets, dripping faucets, line breaks), seasonal lawn/garden watering, or irrigation system use.

About water meter reading: Buckeye Water District uses Automated Meter Reading (AMR) technology with radio transmission for accuracy, efficiency, and cost reduction. Please keep meters accessible by not planting vegetation nearby or enclosing them within fences.

Leak adjustments: The district may provide one adjustment annually for qualifying leaks if: the leak is repaired, your bill has returned to normal levels, and the high bill was at least $50 and double your typical amount.

About pink/gray residue in bathrooms: This common biofilm consists of airborne microorganisms that thrive in moist environments and is not from the water itself. Regular cleaning with household bleach and keeping surfaces dry helps prevent recurrence.