Forsyth County Water & Sewer

Where does Forsyth County's water originate? The majority of our water is drawn from Lake Lanier and processed through treatment facilities operated by either Forsyth County or the City of Cumming. A small portion comes from Fulton County, which extracts water from the Chattahoochee River.

What can residents expect in their water? All municipal water, including bottled varieties, naturally contains trace amounts of certain substances. The presence of these elements doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more detailed information about potential health impacts, residents can contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

The FDA establishes safety standards for bottled water contaminants, providing similar public health protections as tap regulations. Water sources—whether municipal or bottled—include rivers, lakes, reservoirs, springs and wells. As water moves through or over land, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, while also potentially collecting substances from animal presence or human activities.

Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than others. Individuals with compromised immune systems, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly residents, and infants might face increased infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption. The EPA and CDC offer guidelines for reducing Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminant risks through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

The Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of Georgia's Department of Natural Resources conducts over 1,300 annual tests alongside Forsyth County to ensure water safety. These assessments monitor tap water for organisms, minerals and organic compounds that could cause illness or adverse health effects. Testing covers more than 100 different contaminants including bacteria, metals, nitrates and pesticides. The water quality data shows regulated contaminants monitored during 2016, the reporting calendar year. Contaminant presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk.

What is water hardness?
Water hardness measures mineral concentration in water. MCWA water falls in the moderately hard category, containing between 5.6 and 7.6 grains per gallon of Total Hardness (approximately 100 to 125 milligrams per liter).

Do I need a water softener?
No, water softeners aren't necessary for moderately hard water supplies.

Why is fluoride added to my water?
MCWA water contains carefully regulated fluoride levels (about 0.7 parts per million) as recommended by the EPA to help reduce tooth decay.

Is lead present in my water?
Lead isn't found in public water when it leaves treatment facilities. However, it may enter your supply if water sits for extended periods in private plumbing with lead solder or fixtures. Running water for 15-30 seconds typically clears any potential lead. If concerned, you can have your water tested by state-certified laboratories:

• ALS (585) 288-5380
  1565 Jefferson Rd. Bldg 300, Suite 360
  Rochester, NY 14623
• Life Science Laboratories LSL Finger Lakes (585) 728-3320
  16 N. Main Street P.O. Box 424
  Wayland, NY 14572

What disinfection method is used?
MCWA uses chlorine rather than chloramine to treat your municipal water.

How can I get a water quality report?
Request one by contacting MCWA Customer Service at (585) 442-7200, or print a copy online.

Why is my water pressure low?
For single-tap issues, check for clogged faucet screens. For multiple taps with low pressure, verify:

• Shut-off Valve: Ensure it's fully open
• Supply Line: If neighbors experience similar issues, contact Customer Service
• Pressure Regulator: Have a plumber inspect and replace if necessary

How do I detect toilet leaks?
Add food coloring to your toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl after an hour without flushing, you have a leak. Replace the tank stopper to fix the issue. After flushing, listen for running water once the tank refills. Sprinkle powder in the tank to see if the water level rises above the overflow pipe - if powder disappears, adjust or replace the float.