City of El Dorado

Our Water Source
The City of El Dorado draws water from El Dorado Reservoir, an 8400-acre lake with over 50 billion gallons of storage capacity—sufficient to withstand a 50-year drought. Water flows naturally from the lake through large mains to our treatment facility.

Superior Water Quality
El Dorado boasts exceptional tasting water thanks to our high-quality source. Our watershed consists primarily of grasslands, with rainwater runoff contributing most of the lake's volume. This results in naturally soft water (low mineral content) with excellent clarity. Annual turbidity measurements are sometimes as low as 2.5 NTUs, while other Kansas municipalities treat river water exceeding 1000 NTUs.

Taste and Odor Management
Geosmin, which creates earthy/musty flavors, can develop from algae metabolic processes, particularly during warmer months from early summer through fall. While Geosmin poses no health risks, it affects taste. Weather conditions including wind patterns, temperature fluctuations, and precipitation levels can trigger algae blooms. Our monitoring systems detect these episodes early, allowing appropriate treatment.

Treatment Process
Despite our excellent source water, comprehensive treatment ensures compliance with stringent quality standards:

• Initial disinfection with chloramines to neutralize microorganisms
• Chemical addition to remove contaminants, particles, and microbes
• Sodium Permanganate (NaMnO4) treatment to oxidize taste and odor compounds
• Fluoride addition (0.50 ppm) for dental health benefits
• Continuous monitoring to maintain consistent quality and safety

Agricultural Contaminant Monitoring
Atrazine, a widely used herbicide for weed control in corn and sorghum production, is closely monitored. The EPA-established Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Atrazine is 3 Micrograms/Liter. Our recent testing shows levels below the detection threshold of 0.3 ug/L.

Potential Contaminant Sources
Municipal water sources (including surface and groundwater) may contain various contaminants:

• Microbial contaminants from sewage facilities, septic systems, agriculture, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants including naturally-occurring minerals and metals
• Pesticides and herbicides from agricultural operations and urban runoff
• Organic chemicals from industrial processes and petroleum activities
• Naturally-occurring radioactive materials

Health Considerations
Certain individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants, including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, elderly residents, and infants. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their drinking water. For information about contaminants and health effects, contact the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

Protecting Our Water Supply
The City of El Dorado collaborates with the Corps of Engineers and Butler County Conservation District to safeguard El Dorado Lake. The lake's lifespan depends on controlling erosion from rainfall runoff and wave action. We encourage implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) on surrounding properties to improve water quality, including terracing, grass buffer strips, livestock management, and alternative water sources.

Backflow Prevention Program
To maintain water safety, our Public Utilities Department implements a Cross-Connection Backflow Prevention Program requiring protective assemblies on connections where contamination potential exists (irrigation systems, fire sprinklers, beverage machines, boilers). Homeowners can help by ensuring outdoor taps have atmospheric vacuum breakers. For homes built before 1990, we offer free vacuum breakers—contact us at 322-4443.

Lead and Copper Testing
In 2015, El Dorado conducted comprehensive lead and copper sampling throughout our distribution system, with all results well below MCLs. Young children face higher risks from lead exposure. When preparing food or beverages, always use cold water, as hot water may contain higher levels of lead or other metals. Our treatment processes reduce any potential lead presence to levels far below any concern threshold. Additional information is available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

1. What causes water hardness in El Dorado?
   Water hardness results from dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. While El Dorado's water is relatively soft compared to other Kansas municipalities, seasonal variations can affect hardness levels.
2. How often is El Dorado's water tested?
   The City conducts daily operational testing and complies with all EPA-mandated testing schedules, which vary by contaminant from daily monitoring to annual testing.
3. What should I do if I notice unusual taste or odor?
   Seasonal changes, especially during summer months, may temporarily affect taste. If you notice persistent issues, contact the Water Treatment Plant at 316-321-9100.
4. Is bottled water safer than tap water?
   Not necessarily. Municipal water undergoes more frequent testing and stricter regulatory oversight than bottled water in many cases.
5. Should I filter my tap water?
   While El Dorado's water meets all safety standards, personal filtration can address aesthetic preferences or provide additional peace of mind.