City of Wilson

The Wilson water treatment facilities recently completed an extensive filtration rehabilitation project. The purification system represents just one component of their comprehensive water treatment process. Between the two treatment plants, there are over 4100 square feet of filtration area distributed across 14 filter units.

The first four durable filtering units were constructed in 1939, with the most recent additions built in 1994. Most units utilize the Wheeler Bottom design, featuring one-foot square interior pyramids at the base with various sized ceramic balls that help distribute backwash water during cleaning procedures.

Water typically flows downward through filters by gravity. During cleaning cycles, this flow reverses, with clean water pushed upward to remove trapped impurities, allowing for continuous filter reuse.

Regarding source water protection, Wilson's monitoring detected Cryptosporidium in 2017, with two samples at Wiggins Work Reservoir averaging 0.025 oocysts/Liter and two samples at Toisnot Reservoir averaging 0.016 oocysts/Liter. Although filtration removes Cryptosporidium, no method guarantees 100% elimination. Cryptosporidium can cause gastrointestinal illness with symptoms including nausea, diarrhea and abdominal cramps, particularly threatening to immunocompromised individuals, infants, and the elderly.

The City of Wilson draws water from two primary sources. The first includes Contentnea Creek, comprising Buckhorn Lake and the downstream Wiggins Mill Reservoir. Buckhorn Lake, Wilson's largest reservoir, is located approximately 12 miles west of the city. The second source includes Toisnot Reservoir with Lake Pat, which together supply the Toisnot Water Treatment Plant. An emergency connection from Tar Water Reservoir is also available when needed.

The treatment process begins when raw water enters the facilities from either reservoir. Seasonally, the lakes receive copper sulfate treatment to control algae growth that could affect taste and odor. During processing, ferric sulfate combines with natural alkalinity, added lime, or sodium hydroxide to bind particles together after mixing. Powdered activated carbon controls taste and odor-causing compounds. After slow mixing with polymer additives, particles enlarge and settle in large basins. Additional chemicals remove nutrients before water passes through sand and anthracite filters to eliminate remaining particles. Chlorine disinfection kills microorganisms while lime or sodium hydroxide maintains pH and reduces corrosion potential. Fluoride is added for dental health before distribution to homes and businesses.

Common questions about Wilson's municipal water service:

1. How do I report a water leak in the street? If you observe water bubbling up through pavement or sidewalk, contact the Water Department immediately.
2. What about basement leaks? For water leaking into your home or basement pipes leaking beyond your control valve, call the Water Department promptly.
3. Low water pressure concerns? First check if the issue affects your entire home. If so, contact the Water Department. If limited to one location, inspect and clean faucet strainers first. If problems persist, consult a plumber.
4. Dealing with discolored water? Run cold water for several minutes. If discoloration continues, contact the Water Department. If cold water clears but hot remains discolored, your water heater may need maintenance – consult a plumber.
5. No water service? Check multiple taps in your home. If isolated to one fixture, contact a plumber. For property-wide outages, verify no scheduled maintenance is occurring before calling the Water Department.
6. How do I report damaged infrastructure? For missing gate box covers or leaking/damaged fire hydrants, notify the Water Department directly.