Dare County Water System

The Dare County Water System confirms that all procedures under 40 CFR parts 141 and 142 regarding consumer confidence reports have been completed. The utility verifies that information contained in these reports accurately reflects compliance monitoring data submitted to regulatory agencies by NC-certified laboratories.

If this statement is being used to fulfill Tier 3 Public Notification requirements, the water system certifies that public notification has been provided to consumers as required by 40 CFR 141.204(d). Please enter "Dare" for Public Water System Name when accessing information.

Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP) results and reports are regularly updated by the Public Water Supply Section. The assessment results available online may differ from those available when this Consumer Confidence Report was prepared. If you cannot access your SWAP report online, you may request a printed copy by writing to: Source Water Assessment Program - Report Request, 1634 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1634, or email requests to swap@ncdenr.gov. Include your system name, number, and provide contact information. For questions about SWAP reports, contact the Source Water Assessment staff at 919-707-9098.

How much water does the facility produce?

The facility operates 11 raw water wells, each with a capacity of two million gallons per day.

Where does the water come from?

The water treatment plant utilizes groundwater as its raw water source. Groundwater is stored beneath the earth's surface in aquifers - underground formations of rock, caverns, and beds of sand and gravel. Water is extracted through wells. Nearly half of our nation's municipal water comes from groundwater sources. Protecting this resource is essential for ensuring clean, abundant water supplies.

How are groundwater supplies replenished?

Groundwater is part of the hydrologic cycle that includes:

• Condensation - water vapor cooling to form droplets that create clouds
• Evaporation - sun's heat converting surface water to vapor
• Precipitation - rainfall, snow, sleet or hail from heavy clouds
• Infiltration - water sinking into the ground to replenish aquifers
• Surface runoff - water flowing across land into lakes, rivers, and reservoirs

These natural processes determine aquifer water levels. While we can't control natural changes, water conservation practices make a significant difference.

How can I make a difference?

You can conserve water by:

• Repairing household leaks
• Using water-efficient fixtures and appliances
• Washing only full loads of laundry or dishes
• Turning off water while brushing teeth or shaving
• Taking shorter showers

Protect water quality by:

• Limiting household and garden chemical use
• Never disposing of chemicals down drains or storm sewers
• Taking hazardous waste to proper collection centers

Work with your community to:

• Learn about local groundwater sources, including discharge and recharge areas
• Identify potential hazards to your water supply
• Develop protection plans for sensitive areas
• Support safe hazardous waste disposal programs

For more information, contact:

• Your water utility at 601-634-4542 or 601-636-2037
• Your local or state water department
• The EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791

How do communities pay for clean water?

Communities fund water systems through:

• User fees - direct charges based on water consumption
• Connection assessments - fees for new service connections
• Property taxes - funding through property taxation
• State financing - taxes, low-interest loans, and grants for infrastructure

How do I calculate my water bill?

Your bill is based on monthly water usage. The Vicksburg Water and Gas Administration manages all billing processes. Visit their website for rate information and calculation examples.