Fostoria City Water Company

Source Water Assessment and Protection Program. The latest assessment for Fostoria was developed as part of Ohio's Source Water Assessment and Protection initiative. This program aims to identify vulnerable drinking water areas and provide guidance on reducing contaminant risks within these zones. The program's objective is to ensure sustainable, safe water access for current and future Ohio residents.

The Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996 established the nationwide Source Water Assessment and Protection framework, targeting all public water systems in the United States. A public water system serves at least 15 service connections or regularly provides water to at least 25 people daily for a minimum of 60 days annually, whether from underground wells, springs, or surface reservoirs. This requirement doesn't apply to private residential wells or cisterns. Ohio has approximately 5,800 public water systems.

Background: Fostoria operates a community water system serving approximately 15,000 residents through 5,500 metered connections. The city also supplies water to Arcadia (PWS #3200903) with its population of 537. The treatment facility draws water from the East Branch of the Portage River and maintains three groundwater wells as backup sources. While the plant capacity is 6.08 million gallons daily, current production averages about 2.2 million gallons per day.

Protection Areas: The water resource protection zones for both surface and groundwater sources have been clearly mapped. Ohio EPA, with assistance from Fostoria staff, has cataloged facilities and land uses within these areas that might contaminate the water supply. Threats to surface water include agricultural and grazing runoff, failing septic systems, oil/gas wells, manufacturing facilities, commercial operations, municipal facilities, and potential spills along nearby highways.

Protective Strategies: The ultimate goal is implementing protective measures to safeguard Fostoria's water sources. Strategies include daily monitoring of raw water quality at the intake point and developing effective emergency response protocols for accidental or intentional contamination. The backup wells require proper maintenance and regular testing. The city should raise awareness about the water protection zone and encourage best management practices among residents and businesses operating within it. Fostoria and neighboring jurisdictions are encouraged to develop a regional protection plan or update existing emergency management programs. Community watershed planning initiatives may already be underway to guide stream restoration and protection efforts.

1. Where does Fostoria City water come from?
   Fostoria City supplies surface water to Fostoria, Ohio.
2. Does Fostoria City test its tap water?
   Yes. Like every public water system, Fostoria City must test its water under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and publish an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report). Ask the utility for the latest report or look for it on its website.
3. How do I contact Fostoria City?
   Call 419-435-8282 or visit 213 South Main Street, Fostoria, OH 44830, or use the contact options on the utility’s website.
4. Does Fostoria City water contain lead?
   Water usually leaves the treatment plant without lead. Lead can enter tap water from older service lines, solder and brass fixtures inside homes, especially when water sits in the pipes. Run the tap before drinking if water has been sitting, and ask the utility about lead testing and service line records.
5. Is Fostoria City water hard?
   Hardness depends on the source and changes over time. The annual water quality report lists hardness, or you can test it at home. If it is above about 7 grains per gallon, a water softener sized to your measured hardness will stop scale and spotting.