Highridge Water Authority Water Company

We are proud to present our annual water quality report covering testing conducted from January 1 through December 31, 2017. Over the years, we've committed ourselves to delivering high-quality water that meets all state and federal standards. We continuously implement new methods to provide the best quality water to homes and businesses in our service area.

As new water safety challenges emerge, we remain vigilant in meeting our goals of source water protection, conservation, and community education while meeting the needs of all our customers. Please remember our team is always available to assist with any questions or concerns about your water supply.

Source Water Assessment

The primary potential threats to Highridge's water supply include:

• Accidental spills along roadways within the assessment area
• Possible contamination from small residential sewage facilities
• Nonpoint source contamination from agricultural activities
• Environmental impacts from pesticide/herbicide use, mining, logging, and road de-icing
• Potential leaks from underground fuel storage tanks

A complete assessment is available at our office at 17 Maple Avenue, Blairsville, PA 15717. Of the 452 million gallons distributed to customers, approximately 761,206 gallons were purchased from Blairsville Municipal Authority. Those interested in their Source Water Assessment can contact BMA directly at (724) 459-5020.

Important Health Information

Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. People with compromised immune systems—including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, elderly individuals, and infants—may face higher infection risks. These individuals should seek advice about drinking water from their healthcare providers. The EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing infection risk from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

Potential Water Contaminants

To ensure tap water safety, the EPA and DEP set regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. FDA and DEP regulations establish similar limits for bottled water. All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain small amounts of certain contaminants, which doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk.

Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals, sometimes radioactive materials, and substances from animal presence or human activity.

1. Where does Highridge Water Authority water come from?
   Highridge Water Authority supplies surface water to Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
2. Does Highridge Water Authority test its tap water?
   Yes. Like every public water system, Highridge Water Authority 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 Highridge Water Authority?
   Call 888-557-4343 or visit 17 Maple Avenue, Blairsville, PA 15717, or use the contact options on the utility’s website.
4. Does Highridge Water Authority 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 Highridge Water Authority 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.