Genesee Township

This report provides an overview of the municipal water quality for Genesee Township during the 2017 calendar year. The Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) and Genesee County Drain Commissioner-Division of Water and Waste Services (GCDC-WWS) Water Treatment Plant are committed to meeting state and federal water quality standards, including the Lead and Copper Rule.

With the Great Lakes as our water source and proven treatment technologies, GLWA and GCDC-WWS consistently deliver safe water to our community. This report includes details about our water source, its contents, and how it compares to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state standards.

Our Water Source: The water comes from the lower Lake Huron watershed, which includes numerous short, seasonal streams that drain to Lake Huron. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, in partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, conducted a source water assessment in 2004 to determine contamination susceptibility. The Lake Huron water intake is categorized as having moderately low susceptibility to potential contaminant sources.

The Lake Huron water treatment plant has historically provided satisfactory treatment to meet municipal water standards. In 2017, GLWA and GCDC-WWS voluntarily developed and received approval for a source water protection program (SWIPP) for the Lake Huron Water Treatment Plant and GCDC-WWS Treatment Plant intake.

Health Information: Some individuals may be more vulnerable to contaminants than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons, such as those with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These individuals should seek advice from their healthcare providers regarding municipal water consumption.

EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate methods to reduce infection risk from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

Safety Information: Municipal water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Potential Contaminants:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) that occur naturally or result from urban runoff, industrial discharge, oil and gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture and residential uses
• Radioactive contaminants (naturally occurring or from oil/gas production and mining)
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems

To ensure tap water safety, EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. The FDA provides similar protection for bottled water.

How do I connect to Town Sewer or Town Water?

1. Find a contractor who is a licensed drain layer in Genesee Township. We can provide a list of active licensees.
2. Water or Sewer Permits must be obtained by either the homeowner or contractor with the appropriate fee paid to the DPS office.
3. If work requires digging in public areas, a Street Opening Permit is also needed (includes a non-refundable fee and refundable deposit valid 12 months after completion).
4. A Trench Permit is required for any excavation deeper than three feet, which typically includes all water and sewer projects.

Contact our office at 810-640-2000 for information about required permits and associated fees.

Is there currently a water restriction in effect?

Yes, on October 5, 2007, the Board of Water/Sewer Commissioners voted to extend the seasonal water restriction until further notice. The Town's Water Withdrawal Permit from the Department of Environmental Protection also mandates restrictions with specific guidelines. The restriction begins May 1st and remains in effect until October 1st annually. Underground Irrigation Systems are NOT permitted during this restriction; only hand-watering is allowed.

What is an Easement?

An easement is a right-of-way access agreement between a public or private entity and a property owner. It grants the right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose. Examples include easements for utilities, drainage, or temporary construction. Most easements have restrictions regarding land use within the easement, such as planting, building, or installing in-ground structures. Your property deed would indicate if your home has an easement. Contact the easement owner for detailed information.

Does the Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners hold regular public meetings?

Yes, the Board meets monthly and all meetings are open to the public. Resident participation is welcome, and if we know your intention to attend in advance, we can place your topic earlier on the agenda. Contact our office at 810-640-2000 or check the Meetings Calendar on our website for the next scheduled meeting.

What should I do if I lose water pressure or have no water?

Contact our office at 810-640-2000 to report any loss of water pressure so we can inform you about any unexpected water emergencies in your area. If there's no apparent cause, we'll arrange a service call to investigate the issue at your property. Possible causes include water leaks in the street or your service line. We'll determine the problem and advise if township repairs are needed.