City of Ontario Water Company

Ontario's municipal water undergoes a comprehensive "treatment train" process including several key steps: coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection.

In coagulation, special chemicals attract dust and suspended particles forming "floc" clusters. During flocculation, gentle mixing helps small floc particles combine into larger ones. These heavier particles naturally settle in sedimentation basins.

The clarified water then passes through sand, gravel, and charcoal filters that capture even smaller impurities. Finally, controlled chlorination eliminates harmful bacteria and microorganisms before the water enters the community distribution system.

Regarding Cryptosporidium monitoring: This microbial pathogen appears in surface waters throughout the United States. While filtration significantly reduces cryptosporidium presence, no filtration method guarantees 100% removal. Testing confirms these organisms exist in our source water, though current methods cannot determine if they remain viable and disease-causing.

If ingested, cryptosporidium may cause gastrointestinal illness with symptoms including nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Most healthy individuals recover within weeks, but immunocompromised persons face higher risks of serious complications. We strongly encourage immunocompromised residents to consult healthcare providers about additional precautions.

1. Where does City of Ontario water come from?
   City of Ontario supplies surface water to Ontario, Oregon.
2. Does City of Ontario test its tap water?
   Yes. Like every public water system, City of Ontario must test its water under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and publish an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report). Ask the utility for the latest report or look for it on its website.
3. How do I contact City of Ontario?
   Call 541-889-7684 or visit 444 Sw 4th Street, Ontario, OR 97914, or use the contact options on the utility’s website.
4. Does City of Ontario water contain lead?
   Water usually leaves the treatment plant without lead. Lead can enter tap water from older service lines, solder and brass fixtures inside homes, especially when water sits in the pipes. Run the tap before drinking if water has been sitting, and ask the utility about lead testing and service line records.
5. Is City of Ontario water hard?
   Hardness depends on the source and changes over time. The annual water quality report lists hardness, or you can test it at home. If it is above about 7 grains per gallon, a water softener sized to your measured hardness will stop scale and spotting.