City of Hickory

The City of Hickory is proud to present the 2015 Annual Water Quality Report. Through effective treatment and operational excellence, we ensure your water meets all State and Federal standards – in many cases exceeding minimum requirements to deliver the highest quality possible. We're pleased to report our system had no violations during the monitoring period.

This report fulfills requirements under the "Safe Drinking Water Act" (General Law: 42 U.S.C. § 300f-300j-26) and demonstrates the ongoing dedication of City of Hickory Public utility staff who work diligently to provide safe, reliable, premium-quality water to our community.

If you have questions about this report or your water service, please contact Kevin W. Greer, PE, Associate Public Services Director, at (828) 323-7427 or Rob Stine, Water Treatment Plant Superintendent, at (828) 323-7530.

EPA Information: Our municipal water comes from Lake Hickory, part of the Catawba River. Due to its proximity to major roadways (US Hwy 321 and NC Hwy 127) and potential contamination from vehicles, runoff, and development, Lake Hickory/Catawba River has a "higher" susceptibility rating. This doesn't indicate poor water quality – only that contamination potential is elevated compared to more isolated water sources.

As water travels over land or underground, it can collect substances including microbes, inorganic/organic chemicals, and radioactive materials. All municipal water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of contaminants. However, their presence doesn't necessarily pose a health risk.

The City of Hickory regularly monitors for contaminants according to federal and local regulations. Tables in the full report show our monitoring results from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791.

Health Information: Some individuals may be more vulnerable to contaminants than the general population. People with compromised immune systems (cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, some elderly individuals, and infants) may face higher risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about appropriate water precautions. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from materials in service lines and home plumbing. While the City of Hickory provides high-quality water, we cannot control the components used in residential plumbing. To minimize lead exposure, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking, especially after long periods of non-use. If concerned, consider having your water tested. Information about lead in drinking water is available at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Common Questions About Municipal Water Services

1. How much does my water actually cost?
   Tap water represents exceptional value, costing less than one penny per gallon. Compare this to typical store-brand bottled water at approximately 95 cents per gallon – over 135 times more expensive than equivalent tap water. Your bill covers service costs rather than the water itself.
2. What do my water bill charges represent?
   Service charges cover fixed costs of delivering water to your property, ensuring availability whenever you turn on a faucet. These charges, based on meter size, fund meter reading, accounting, billing, customer service, and other customer-related expenses. Usage charges cover treatment and distribution costs for water you actually consume.
3. How can I shut off water in an emergency or for maintenance?
   Turn off water inside your home/building at the main valve, typically located where the water service enters the structure. Keep this valve accessible for emergencies.
4. What should I do if I suspect water theft?
   Contact our Customer Care Center at 203-562-4020. Our security team will investigate the situation.
5. Who maintains fire hydrants in our area?
   The hydrant owner handles maintenance. This may be the Regional Water Authority or your local municipality, depending on your location.