Cuyahoga Falls City PWS

The Cuyahoga Falls Water Treatment Facility, situated at 2028 Munroe Falls Avenue, utilizes groundwater as its primary resource. The well field comprises eighteen (18) wells located in Water Works Park along the Cuyahoga River's southern bank.

This location features a buried valley where permeable outwash gravels intersect with major waterways. The Cuyahoga River enhances aquifer flow, and the well field receives additional recharge through a network of man-made channels and lagoons. Water samples undergo annual testing for volatile organic compounds, chloromethanes, and naturally occurring radioactive elements.

The well field is protected by two theoretical zones. The "inner safety zone" supplies groundwater to Cuyahoga Falls' wells within one year of pumping. Chemical spills in this area pose significant threats to drinking water, warranting stringent protection. The "outer protection zone" contributes additional water when wells operate for five years.

Ohio EPA conducted an inventory of potential contamination sources within the water resource area, identifying 19 potential contaminant sources in the protected zones. A susceptibility assessment determined that Cuyahoga Falls' water supply has high vulnerability to contamination. Protecting this vital resource requires community-wide participation.

For more information, contact the Water Utilities Department at 330.971.8130, Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm. Public feedback is encouraged. For specific water quality questions, reach John Christopher, Superintendent, at 330.971.8131.

Lead-Copper Content in Water

Cuyahoga Falls Water Department maintains an unconditioned license to operate the water system. Elevated lead levels can cause serious health issues, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in municipal water primarily comes from service lines and household plumbing components. While the city provides quality water, it cannot control materials used in residential plumbing systems.

After water sits for several hours, reduce potential lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption. Lead testing information is available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Water Treatment Process

Water from the well field undergoes multiple treatment processes at the Cuyahoga Falls Water Plant. All water passes through iron removal filters with chlorine addition to eliminate iron and manganese that cause discoloration. Based on raw water hardness, approximately two-thirds receives ion exchange softening. The softened water combines with untreated water to achieve finished hardness of 160-180 ppm (as CaCO₃).

In the mixing chamber, chlorine, fluoride, caustic soda, and orthophosphate are added. Chlorine disinfects the water by eliminating potentially harmful bacteria. Of 646 samples analyzed in 2017, none showed presence of coliform bacteria. Chlorination produces disinfection byproducts (trihalomethanes/TTHMs and haloacetic acids/HAA5s). Fluoride prevents tooth decay, while caustic soda and orthophosphate provide corrosion control and pH adjustment.

The City of Cuyahoga Falls continuously works to enhance treatment facilities and water quality. We believe our safe, abundant water supply is among the community's greatest assets, and we remain committed to keeping residents informed about their water supply.

1. What's the typical household water consumption?

   Determining average water usage is challenging as consumption varies based on individual household needs. However, our calculations over recent years show that in Tisbury, a typical family of four (two adults and two young children) uses approximately 110,000 to 120,000 gallons annually.

2. Why is water flowing from pipes in seemingly random locations?

   To maintain safe drinking water quality, our distribution system includes strategically placed "blow-offs" at dead-end points in the water mains. Running water through these outlets ensures consistent flow throughout the system, preventing stagnation.

3. Where can I find water quality information?

   The Tisbury Water Works produces an annual Water Quality Report available at all town office locations. In 1999, Tisbury enacted a Groundwater Protection Bylaw to safeguard our aquifer and prevent environmental contamination. We actively promote water conservation and offer various educational materials at our office.

4. How can I contact the Water Department?

   For assistance, contact the Water Works Office at (508) 696-4230, fax (508) 693-3157, or email Patricia Diamond, Administrative Assistant.