City of Trinidad

General Information About Tap Water

All water intended for consumption, including bottled varieties, can be expected to contain at least small amounts of certain contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more detailed information about contaminants and potential health effects, please contact the EPA's Safe Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or visit http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants.

Certain individuals may be particularly vulnerable to water contaminants. Those with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients undergoing treatment, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly individuals, and infants—could face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek guidance from healthcare providers regarding their water consumption.

Trinidad's Water Sources

The city's primary water source is North Lake Reservoir, with Monument Lake Reservoir serving as a secondary source. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has provided a Source Water Assessment Report, which you can access at http://wqcdcompliance.com/ccr under "Guidance: Source Water Assessment Reports" (search using 136800, TRINIDAD CITY OF), or by contacting Linda Vigil at 719-846-9843.

This assessment provides a screening-level evaluation of potential contamination sources, including abandoned mine sites, agricultural activities (crop and pasture land), forest areas, roadways, and septic systems. The report offers a foundation for developing water protection strategies.

Lead in Water

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health complications, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Your home's plumbing materials may contribute to higher lead content than other residences. If concerned, consider having your water tested. After water has been sitting for several hours, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using it for drinking or cooking to minimize potential exposure. Additional information about lead in water is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Water Monitoring

The City of Trinidad regularly monitors for contaminants in accordance with Federal and State regulations. Our testing schedules vary based on contamination likelihood, with some substances tested less frequently when concentrations aren't expected to change significantly year to year.

1. How often is Trinidad's municipal water tested? The city conducts regular testing based on EPA guidelines, with some tests performed daily and others on quarterly or annual schedules.
2. What causes water hardness in Trinidad? The local surface water sources contain naturally occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium that contribute to water hardness.
3. How can residents address concerns about water quality? Residents can request water quality reports, contact the utility directly with questions, or consider home water testing services.
4. Are water filters recommended for Trinidad residents? While the municipal water meets safety standards, some residents may prefer filters to address hardness or remove trace contaminants.