Gallatin Water Department

Why Are There Contaminants in My Water? Municipal water, including bottled water (regulated by FDA contaminant limits), can reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of certain contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't automatically indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

Water sources include lakes, ponds, reservoirs, rivers, springs, streams and wells. In Gallatin's case, we source from the Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake. As water moves over land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals, sometimes radioactive materials, and can pick up substances from animal and human activities.

Potential contaminants in untreated source water include:

• Biological Contaminants - such as bacteria and viruses from septic systems, sewage treatment plants, livestock, and wildlife
• Inorganic Contaminants - including metals, salts and turbidity, either naturally occurring or resulting from urban stormwater runoff and industrial/domestic wastewater
• Organic Chemicals - including synthetic and volatile compounds from industrial processes, stormwater runoff, and septic systems
• Pesticides and Herbicides - originating from agriculture, stormwater runoff, and residential use
• Radioactive Materials - possibly from water passing through natural deposits

To ensure tap water safety, the EPA and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation establish regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. Gallatin's water undergoes several treatment steps before reaching your tap. First, water is pumped from the Cumberland River intake to our Treatment Plant. The treatment process includes pre-chlorination, addition of PAC (poly aluminum chloride) to aid settling, and powdered activated carbon for taste and odor control. The water then moves through flocculation basins for sedimentation (where larger particles form and settle), followed by filtration to achieve crystal clarity. Finally, post-chlorination prevents bacterial growth, aquadene provides corrosion control, and fluoride helps prevent tooth decay.

1. What causes water hardness in Gallatin? The limestone geological formations in Tennessee naturally contribute to higher calcium and magnesium levels in water.
2. How often is Gallatin's water tested? The water supply undergoes daily operational testing and regular compliance monitoring as required by state and federal regulations.
3. Should I be concerned about the contaminants listed? While certain contaminants are present, most fall within acceptable regulatory limits. However, sensitive populations may wish to use additional filtration.
4. What causes occasional taste or odor issues? Seasonal changes in Old Hickory Lake can affect taste and odor, particularly during summer algae blooms.