Deschutes Valley Water District

Is my water safe? We're pleased to report that our municipal water is safe and meets federal and state requirements. The quality of your water is so important that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn't require Deschutes Valley Water District to test for every contaminant annually. A waiver approved by the Oregon Health Division (OHD) in 1996 established the testing frequency and parameters. Last year, we tested for over 80 contaminants and found only 3, with just one exceeding EPA allowances.

This report provides a snapshot of last year's water quality, including details about the source, content, and how it compares to regulatory standards. We're committed to keeping you informed because educated customers are our greatest allies.

Should I take special precautions? Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. People with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, some elderly individuals, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek advice from healthcare providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing Cryptosporidium infection risk are available through the Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).

Where does my water come from? The Opal Springs aquifer supplies water to approximately 4,950 Deschutes Valley Water District services. This artesian spring is located several miles southwest of Culver at the base of the 850-foot Crooked River Canyon, less than 150 feet from the river. The artesian wells are situated on the canyon's east side, 300-600 feet south of Opal Springs. The spring flows approximately 108,000 gallons per minute at a consistent 53.8°F year-round. No noticeable changes in flow, temperature, or pH have occurred since initial testing in 1925.

Well #1 reaches 750 feet deep, producing 3,750 gallons per minute. Well #2 extends 513 feet, yielding 3,360 gallons per minute. Well #3 reaches 661 feet, producing 4,000 gallons per minute. All wells and Opal Springs draw from the same aquifer.

Source water assessment All water, including bottled water, naturally contains some contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate health risks. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Currently, Opal Springs requires no filtration or treatment. Historical and ongoing water quality analyses show no man-made contaminants. The source is well-protected, being hundreds of feet underground and under pressure. Surface contaminants are unlikely to reach this deep aquifer. Testing indicates the water predates 1953 nuclear testing, making it at least 65 years old. According to USGS Reports 97-197 and 97-4233, the water may be 1,000-4,000 years old.

Analysis confirms Opal Springs is a surface water source unaffected by ground water. The water's hardness measures 42 mg/l, considered very soft (ideal domestic water should be below 85 mg/l). The pH tests at 7.67, indicating slightly basic water.

How can I get involved? For questions about this report or our utility, contact our General Manager at (541) 475-3849. We want our valued customers to be informed about their water utility. Board Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM at the District office (881 SW Culver Hwy, Madras, Oregon).

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