City of Binghamton

In accordance with State and Federal regulations, the BINGHAMTON WATER DEPARTMENT publishes a report outlining the quality of your municipal water. This report aims to enhance your awareness about tap water and the importance of protecting our water resources.

In 2017, we conducted tests for over 140 contaminants across our two water sources. Our primary source is the Susquehanna River, with a backup well system. Water from both sources tested below maximum contaminant levels for all monitored substances, and distribution system samples met all State standards.

This report provides an overview of last year's water quality, including details about water sources, content, and how it compares to State standards. If you have questions about this report or your municipal water, please contact the Water Department at 607-772-7210 during regular business hours. We value your interest in understanding your water supply and welcome discussing any concerns by phone or in person.

WHERE DOES OUR WATER COME FROM?
Municipal water sources include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water moves across land or through ground, it dissolves natural minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, and can pick up substances from animal or human activities. Potential contaminants include microbial pathogens, inorganic compounds, pesticides, organic chemicals, and radioactive materials.

To ensure safe tap water, New York State and the EPA establish regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, the FDA regulates bottled water contaminant limits to provide equivalent public health protection.

Our primary source is the Susquehanna River, with water treated at a recently renovated filtration facility. Our backup groundwater source provides less than 0.5% of our water demand and operates approximately 8 hours weekly. Well water receives chlorination before entering the distribution system.

The New York State Department of Health completed a source water assessment based on available information, evaluating potential threats to our drinking sources. The susceptibility rating estimates contamination likelihood but doesn't indicate current or future contamination. While nitrates and other inorganics were detected in our water, all drinking water—including bottled water—typically contains at least small amounts of some contaminants.

WATER QUALITY FACTS AND FIGURES
Our water system serves 44,564 people through 14,000 service connections in Binghamton, plus parts of the Towns of Binghamton, Dickinson, and Vestal. In 2017, we pumped 1,568,688,900 gallons, averaging 4.40 million gallons daily with peak production of 7,086,600 gallons on October 5th. The amount billed was 1,263,688,404 gallons, with the remaining 305,000,496 gallons used for firefighting, parks, pools, street flushing, hydrant maintenance, and to account for main breaks and leakage. In 2017, the minimum combined water/sewer bill was $76.80 for 3,740 gallons.

The CDC provides essential information about water safety and public health. Their resources include guidance on potential waterborne illnesses, prevention measures, and best practices for maintaining safe municipal water supplies. Residents can learn about proper water testing procedures, understanding water quality reports, and steps to take if contamination is suspected in their local water system.