East Moline

The water supplied to East Moline residents can come from various sources. Our city draws water from the Mississippi River and processes up to 10 million gallons daily at our Water Purification Plant. Various treatment facilities across America (both tap and bottled) utilize rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells as water sources.

While United States water supplies are among the safest globally, contamination risks still exist. As water travels across land surfaces or through ground layers, it dissolves natural minerals, sometimes radioactive materials, and may collect substances from animal presence or human activities.

Potential contaminants in untreated water include:

• Microbial contaminants such as viruses and bacteria from sewage facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants including salts and metals that occur naturally or come from urban runoff, industrial wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants that occur naturally or result from oil/gas production and mining

The USEPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure drinking safety. FDA regulations set similar limits for bottled water. All drinking water, including bottled varieties, may contain at least small amounts of certain contaminants, though their presence doesn't necessarily indicate health risks.

Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or immune disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek medical advice about their water consumption needs.

1. What contaminants are most concerning in East Moline's water?

   Uranium, Molybdenum, and Pentachlorophenol are particular concerns, along with elevated water hardness levels that can affect appliances and plumbing.

2. How often is East Moline's municipal water tested?

   The utility conducts regular testing as mandated by EPA regulations, with comprehensive annual reports available to the public.

3. Does water hardness pose health risks?

   Hard water isn't typically a health concern but can damage appliances, reduce soap effectiveness, and leave mineral deposits on fixtures.

4. Should residents use water filters?

   Home filtration systems can address specific contaminants and water hardness issues. The best system depends on your particular water quality concerns.

5. Where can I find my annual water quality report?

   East Moline publishes annual water quality reports on their website, and paper copies can be requested from the utility office.