City of Fortuna

The City of Fortuna provides municipal water to approximately 12,000 residents throughout our service area. Our comprehensive water distribution system includes 45 miles of waterlines, 7 reservoirs storing a total of 7.5 million gallons, and 8 pump stations ensuring consistent water delivery to 4,467 service connections.

Our water originates from groundwater sources (wells) located along Eel River Drive between Drake Hill Road and Kenmar Road. These sources include Wells #1, #2, #3, #4, and #5. Last year, we produced approximately 419 million gallons of water for our community.

A thorough assessment of Fortuna's water supply sources was completed in September 2015. Our source is considered vulnerable to certain human and animal activities, particularly: sand/gravel mining operations, recreational areas, vehicles (gas stations), and solid waste systems.

Water Treatment Process

The City of Fortuna treats its water supply to raise pH levels and reduce corrosivity, ensuring compliance with federal and state lead and copper requirements. Our treatment process makes the water less acidic by aerating and removing naturally dissolved carbon dioxide (the same gas that creates carbonation in sodas). As required by the California Department of Public Health, the water is then chlorinated to prevent any bacterial contamination.

Infrastructure Maintenance

Our seven city-owned reservoirs and pump stations undergo daily inspections. Beyond regular maintenance and repairs, city personnel routinely drain and refill these reservoirs to ensure the freshest water is available to customers. We've recently completed one major construction project and are currently working on two others designed to secure a reliable water system for the future.

Cross Connection Control Program

This important program protects our public water system from contamination due to backflow—when water from a consumer's plumbing flows back into the city water mains. Both the California Department of Health Services and Fortuna City Code require backflow prevention devices at all actual or potential contamination sources, including hospitals, mortuaries, fire sprinkler systems, wastewater treatment plants, and properties with private wells. These devices undergo mandatory annual testing to ensure proper operation.

Water Quality Monitoring

The City of Fortuna continuously monitors water quality in accordance with state and federal regulations. Our comprehensive testing program checks for numerous potential contaminants to ensure safe, clean water for our residents.

Understanding Water Contaminants

Municipal water (including tap and bottled water) comes from various sources such as rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs and wells. As water travels over or through land, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and can pick up substances from animal presence or human activity.

Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial Contaminants: Viruses and bacteria from sewage systems, agricultural operations, wildlife, and wastewater treatment facilities
• Inorganic Contaminants: Naturally-occurring salts and metals or those resulting from urban runoff, industrial/domestic wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides & Herbicides: From agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential usage
• Organic Chemical Contaminants: By-products of industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive Contaminants: Can occur naturally or result from oil/gas production and mining activities

The EPA and California Department of Public Health establish water quality standards, testing methods, and monitoring requirements to ensure public safety. They also set limitations on contaminant levels and require utilities to notify the public of any violations.

It's worth noting that all drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

1. What causes water hardness in Fortuna?
   Water hardness in Fortuna results from dissolved minerals (primarily calcium and magnesium) naturally present in our groundwater sources. While not a health concern, hardness can affect appliance efficiency and cleaning effectiveness.
2. How often is Fortuna's water tested?
   The City of Fortuna conducts daily operational testing and regular comprehensive testing as required by state and federal regulations. Different contaminants have different testing frequencies, from daily checks to annual evaluations.
3. What's being done about the contaminants mentioned?
   The City of Fortuna employs specific treatment processes to address identified contaminants and maintain levels below regulatory limits. Our aeration and chlorination processes specifically target several concerns to ensure water safety.
4. Should I use a home water filter?
   While Fortuna's water meets all safety standards, some residents choose home filtration for taste preference or to address specific concerns like hardness. If considering a filter, select one certified to address your specific concerns.
5. How can I report water quality concerns?
   If you notice unusual taste, odor, or appearance in your water, contact the City of Fortuna at 707-725-7600. Prompt reporting helps us address potential issues quickly.