City of Gladstone

All tap water, including bottled varieties, typically contains trace amounts of various contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For detailed information about contaminants and potential health effects, please contact the EPA's Safe Municipal Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than others. Individuals with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly residents, and infants—may face heightened risks from infections. These individuals should seek specific guidance about water consumption from healthcare providers.

Gladstone sources its water from Little Bay de Noc. Beyond naturally occurring minerals, shoreline erosion and human/animal activities can introduce contaminants into the water supply. These potential contaminants include:

1. Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria, protozoa) from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
2. Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) from natural sources, stormwater runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, and farming
3. Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, stormwater runoff, and septic systems
4. Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential usage
5. Radioactive contaminants that occur naturally or result from oil/gas production and mining activities

To ensure tap water safety, EPA regulations limit contaminant levels in public water systems. FDA regulations establish similar standards for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

The Gladstone Water Department regularly collects and analyzes water samples from the bay and throughout treatment—from multiple daily tests to continuous monitoring. We also collect at least five distribution system samples monthly to verify proper chemical levels and ensure any treatment-resistant contaminants remain at safe levels.

Lead Information: Elevated lead levels can cause serious health issues, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in tap water primarily comes from service lines and household plumbing materials. While Gladstone Water Department provides quality water, we cannot control plumbing component materials. To minimize lead exposure, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking if it has been sitting for several hours. For concerns about lead, consider water testing. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and exposure reduction is available from the Safe Municipal Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

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