Dona Ana MDWCA

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1. Is our tap water safe to drink? Yes, our water exceeds all regulatory requirements. Municipal water is monitored through the State Health Department (Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
2. Where does our water come from? Our water sources include the Left Hand Creek Basin and water transported from Carter Lake via the Colorado Big Thompson Project.
3. What causes occasional odor/taste issues in my water? Tastes and odors can develop from new plumbing, low water usage, or natural elements in source water. Seasonal algae or aquatic plant blooms frequently contribute to taste and odor episodes. Though plant material is removed during treatment, some odors may persist. These taste and odor issues, while unpleasant, aren't harmful to health.
4. Why does my water appear discolored? Discoloration typically results from rust in aging pipes. While aesthetically unpleasing, it's generally harmless. Water line disturbances from hydrant use, pipe installation, or maintenance shutoffs can cause discoloration, as can issues with home plumbing.
5. Do I need a water filter? Your tap water is safe without additional filtration. Consider a filter only if you have specific internal plumbing concerns.
6. Is bottled water safer than tap water? Bottled water quality depends entirely on its source - many brands simply bottle tap water. Municipal water undergoes more rigorous testing and regulation than bottled water, which falls under FDA food product guidelines. Water utilities must disclose quality information, while bottled water companies aren't required to do so.
7. Is there lead in my water, and what can I do about it? Left Hand Water District hasn't detected lead in treated water. However, lead may come from residential plumbing. The EPA identifies two types of homes at risk: very old homes (pre-WWII) with lead pipes/services, and homes built between 1982-1987 using copper pipe with lead-based solder, which was banned for drinking water plumbing in 1987.
8. Should I worry about radon in tap water? No, Left Hand Water District utilizes only surface water sources like lakes and streams. Radon concerns relate to groundwater.
9. What chemicals are added during water treatment? The process includes adding aluminum sulfate (alum) and polymer to bind with particles, which are then removed through sedimentation and filtration. Post-filtration, fluoride is added to meet State Health Department requirements, followed by soda ash or caustic soda for pH adjustment to prevent pipe corrosion. Finally, chlorine disinfects against potentially harmful microorganisms. All additives are certified food-grade safe.
10. What about waterborne parasites like Cryptosporidium and Giardia? Annual testing detects these organisms in source water but not in treated water. Sufficient disinfection and effective filtration during treatment eliminate these parasites, meeting federal Surface Water Treatment Rule requirements.
11. If water conservation matters, why do utility crews flush fire hydrants? Even quality water becomes stale without adequate circulation. Flushing maintains freshness, particularly in low-usage areas.
12. Is hot tap water safe to drink? Never consume or use hot tap water from the tap for food or beverage preparation. Hot water systems contain metal components that corrode over time, contaminating the water.
13. Why does my skin itch after winter showers? Our climate tends to be cold and dry in winter, leading people to take hotter showers. Hot water dries skin - taking warm rather than hot showers should help.
14. How should I treat water for my fish? Always use a dechlorinating agent to remove chlorine.
15. What's the water hardness level in Left Hand Water District? The range is 18-50 parts per million (equivalent to 1-3 grains per gallon).