City of Laramie

Should I take special precautions with my water? Certain individuals may be more vulnerable to water impurities than the general population. People with compromised immune systems—such as those undergoing cancer treatment, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly residents, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek advice from their healthcare providers. The EPA/CDC provides guidelines on appropriate methods to reduce infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants through their Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).

Where does Laramie's water come from? The City of Laramie utilizes water from multiple sources. Approximately 50% comes from the Big Laramie River, while the other 50% is drawn from well fields in the Casper Aquifer. River water is diverted through pipelines to a conventional treatment facility before entering the city's transmission system. The groundwater is sourced from three well fields located to the North, East, and South of the City. All water sources receive fluoride and chlorine treatment in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations before distribution.

Why are contaminants present in my water? All municipal water, including bottled varieties, naturally contains at least small amounts of some contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791). Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land surfaces or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, and can pick up substances from animal or human activity.

These substances may include: microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife; inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) occurring naturally or resulting from urban runoff, industrial discharge, oil/gas production, mining, or farming; pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential uses; organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, stormwater runoff, and septic systems; and radioactive contaminants that occur naturally or result from energy production activities. The EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safety, while FDA regulations set similar standards for bottled water.

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