Hampton Shaler Water Authority

The Hampton Shaler Water Authority sources approximately 91.19% of its water from wells that draw from a substantial aquifer beneath the Allegheny River and surrounding areas. Often referred to locally as the "underground river" or "fourth river," this formation is actually not a river but a layer of rock and stone deposits containing abundant groundwater.

A network of twelve water wells can supply over six million gallons daily to the treatment plant. The aquifer-sourced water is naturally high quality, requiring minimal treatment and constant monitoring at the facility. The natural soil and rock filtration process helps remove most bacteria before the water reaches the wells.

Western View Water Expert provides approximately 8.54% of HSWA's water needs. This surface water is drawn from the Ohio River and processed at their advanced treatment plant on Neville Island. HSWA connects with Western View through facilities on Duncan Avenue, Sample Street, and Villa Drive at the Hampton Township boundary.

The Maryland Water and Sewer Authority supplies less than 1% (0.26%) of HSWA's requirements, serving the Pleasant Valley area of O'Hara Township. This water originates from the Allegheny River and is treated at their Aspinwall facility near Waterworks Mall. In 2017, HSWA installed a new waterline along Kirkwood Drive in O'Hara Township, allowing them to supply Pleasant Valley primarily from their own treatment plant, with Maryland's supply now serving as an emergency backup.

Susceptibility to Potential Contamination: Groundwater protection is a critical priority. Route 28 (East Ohio Street), rail and river traffic, and certain local businesses all represent potential contamination sources. Shaler Township has collaborated with the Allegheny County Health Department, Pennsylvania Rural Water Association, and the Department of Environmental Protection to implement a Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) Program focusing on:

• Defining well field protection areas
• Identifying local contamination sources
• Managing well recharge areas through local ordinances and education
• Planning for population growth and land use changes
• Developing emergency response and alternative water supply plans

A Source Water Assessment of the Hampton Shaler well field conducted in 2000-2001 identified several risk factors. The proximity to Routes 8 and 28 presents low contamination risks from road salt or spills. Non-point sources (soil erosion, septic systems, stormwater discharges, agricultural activities) present moderate risks. Large gas storage facilities near the well field create a moderate-high risk of fuel spills. The active rail corridor intersecting the well field, which transports numerous hazardous chemicals daily, represents a high risk of potential contamination from train spills.

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