East Biggs Water System

MICROBIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY MONITORING: State regulations mandate testing for bacteriological contaminants within our distribution network. This monitoring occurs regularly to verify the system remains free of Coliform bacteria. We're required to conduct a minimum of two tests monthly, and we consistently fulfill this obligation. Zero samples tested positive for Coliform bacteria during any single month.

LEAD & COPPER TESTING RESULTS: State regulations require testing for lead and copper at individual taps throughout our distribution system. Lead exceeding 15 ppb (the regulatory Action Level) in more than 5% of sampled sites is cause for concern. Infants and children typically face greater vulnerability to lead in water than adults. Your home may have higher lead levels due to plumbing materials used. If concerned, consider testing your water and flushing taps for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before use. Additional information is available from the USEPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

GENERAL WATER INFORMATION: All water sources, including bottled water, may reasonably contain small amounts of contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. Immuno-compromised individuals (cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, elderly persons, and infants) may be particularly susceptible to infections and should consult their physicians regarding water consumption.

ARSENIC ADVISORY: While our water meets current arsenic standards, it may contain low levels of this mineral. Regulations balance health concerns against removal costs. The California Department of Public Health continues researching health effects of low-level arsenic exposure, known to cause cancer at high concentrations and linked to skin damage and circulatory issues.

WATER SOURCE INFORMATION: Municipal water sources include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or underground, it dissolves natural minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, and may pick up substances from animal presence or human activity. Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) either naturally occurring or from urban runoff, industrial/domestic wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants occurring naturally or resulting from energy and mining activities

The EPA and State Department of Public Health establish regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems, with similar protections for bottled water.

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