City of Show Low

Water sources including tap and bottled water come from rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land surfaces or underground, it dissolves natural minerals and, in some cases, radioactive materials, and can absorb substances from animal or human activities.

To ensure tap water safety, the EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, FDA regulations set limits for bottled water contaminants to provide equivalent public health protection.

Vulnerable Populations: Tap water, including bottled varieties, may contain small amounts of certain contaminants. While their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk, some individuals may be more vulnerable than the general population. People with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, those with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption.

Source Water Assessment: The City of Show Low has completed a Resource Water Assessment (SWA) with a "High Risk" designation. This classification reflects the hydrogeological conditions and surrounding land uses near our drinking water sources. This designation doesn't indicate current contamination or imminent threats, but rather acknowledges potential vulnerabilities that could affect future water quality. Additional protective measures may be implemented at the local level. Complete documentation is available by contacting ADEQ at 1-602-771-4641 or at the City of Show Low's Public Works Office.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I know about the water testing laboratory?
2. Why does my water sometimes appear cloudy or milky?
3. What causes spots on dishes after washing?
4. Is purchasing a water softener recommended?
5. Are home filtration systems necessary?
6. Why does my coffee sometimes have an oily appearance?
7. What causes taste and odor issues in tap water?
8. What leads to water discoloration?
9. Is bottled water superior to tap water?
10. Why must water undergo disinfection?
11. What causes sediment or sand in water?
12. Why does the water utility periodically flush water from pipes?
13. What factors contribute to hard water?
14. What are trihalomethanes (THMs)?
15. Why is chlorination necessary in municipal water systems?
16. Are there regulatory standards for chlorine/chloramine levels?
17. What are regulatory agencies doing to address THMs in municipal water?