City of Fredericksburg

This comprehensive annual report for 2008 is designed to inform you about your municipal water quality. Our primary goal is to provide a reliable, safe water supply while helping you understand the measures taken to protect your water source. Your water quality must meet strict state and federal standards overseen by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).

For questions about this report or additional information about your water, please reach out to M. W. Roberts, Superintendent of Public Works at (540) 372-1090. The City's water system operates under Fredericksburg Town Council authority, which meets on the second and fourth Tuesday monthly at 6:30 pm in City Hall Council Chambers, 715 Princess Anne St.

GENERAL INFORMATION (Potential Water Contaminants)
As water flows across land or through underground layers, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and may collect substances from animal presence or human activities. Contaminants in source water can originate from septic systems, sewage treatment facilities, agricultural operations, urban runoff, residential usage, and various other sources. Surface water typically undergoes treatment before consumption, while groundwater may not require processing.

All water sources, including bottled water, can reasonably be expected to contain at least minimal amounts of some contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial Contaminants: Viruses and bacteria from sewage facilities, septic systems, livestock operations, or wildlife
• Inorganic Contaminants: Salts and metals occurring naturally or resulting from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and Herbicides: From agricultural sources, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses
• Organic Chemical Contaminants: Synthetic and volatile organic compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, stormwater runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive Contaminants: Naturally occurring or resulting from oil/gas production and mining operations

Additional information is available through the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791). The U.S. Office of Water (www.epa.gov/watrhome) and Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) websites provide extensive information on water resources and public health issues. The Virginia Department of Water maintains a comprehensive website (http://www.vdh.state.va.us/DrinkingWater/) with current information on state water concerns.

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS
Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. Those with compromised immune systems—including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, elderly individuals, and infants—may face higher infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers regarding water consumption. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing cryptosporidium and other microbiological contamination risks are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

WATER SOURCES AND TREATMENT
Your water comes from surface water collected from: Rappahannock River, Motts Run Reservoir at Motts Run Water Treatment Plant (Spotsylvania County), and Ni Tank at Ni Water Treatment Plant (Spotsylvania County). Approximately 95% of water comes from the Motts Run facility.

A recent source water assessment by the Virginia Department of Health determined our water sources to be highly susceptible to contamination based on state-approved assessment criteria. This report includes maps of the assessment area, an inventory of potential contamination sources, and documentation of any known contamination within the past five years. Contact J. W. Roberts, Superintendent of Public Works (540-372-1090) for more information.

LEAD IN WATER
Lead occurs naturally in our environment, resulting in small, typically undetectable amounts in water supplies. However, most household lead contamination comes from home plumbing rather than the municipal system. EPA estimates over 40 million U.S. residents use water containing lead above EPA's Action Level of 15 ppb.

Lead exposure is particularly concerning for young children, infants, and fetuses, who appear especially vulnerable to lead poisoning. A dose with minimal effect on an adult can significantly impact a small body. Lead in water typically contributes between 10-20% of total lead exposure in young children.

Our municipal supply is maintained at optimal pH and mineral content to prevent corrosion in residential plumbing. To reduce lead exposure, flush your cold water pipes by running water until it reaches its coldest temperature (5 seconds to 2 minutes), and only use cold water for drinking, cooking, and especially baby formula preparation. Hot water typically contains higher lead levels. For more information, contact the National Lead Information Center (800-LEAD-FYI) or Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

WATER CONSERVATION TIPS
Water conservation protects our supply and can reduce your water bills. Consider these practices:

• Fix leaking fixtures and plumbing
• Update old fixtures with water-saving models
• Run only full loads of laundry and dishes
• Take shorter showers
• Turn off water while brushing teeth or shaving
• Water lawns and gardens during cooler hours
• Use mulch around plants to retain moisture
• Wash vehicles using a bucket, saving the hose for rinsing

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