Hobbs Municipal Water Supply

We're pleased to present this year's Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This document provides information about your water source, its contents, and how it compares to regulatory standards. This report represents our commitment to water quality over the past year.

We believe informed customers are our greatest allies in maintaining water quality. 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, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly individuals, and infants—may face higher risks from infections. These individuals should seek advice about water consumption from healthcare professionals.

The EPA and CDC provide guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants through the Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).

Our Water Source

Hobbs relies exclusively on the Ogallala Aquifer, located approximately 80 feet beneath our community. We operate 33 water wells to access this underground source. The only treatment this high-quality water requires before delivery is chlorination. While readily available, this resource is limited, making water conservation essential.

Source Water Assessment

Hobbs collaborated with the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) to complete a Source Water Assessment. This evaluation found our water system well-maintained with a "Moderately Low" susceptibility ranking. The drinking water source is protected from potential contamination sources. For a copy of this report, contact David Torres at the State of New Mexico Environment Department, Drinking Water Bureau: 505-841-5306 or David.Torres@state.nm.us.

Understanding Contaminants

All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain small amounts of some contaminants. Their presence 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).

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

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) can be natural or result from urban runoff, industrial discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides may come from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile compounds, are industrial by-products and can come from gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants can be naturally occurring or result from oil/gas production and mining

The EPA sets regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, FDA regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

1. How often is my water tested for contaminants?

   Municipal water suppliers test water daily for some parameters, while comprehensive testing occurs on weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual schedules depending on the contaminant.

2. Is hard water unsafe to drink?

   Hard water isn't unsafe, but it contains higher mineral content (primarily calcium and magnesium) that can affect appliance efficiency and cleaning effectiveness.

3. Should I be concerned about contaminants listed in water reports?

   Not necessarily. Detection doesn't mean unsafe levels. Compare detected levels with the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) established by the EPA to understand if there's a health concern.

4. What should I do if I'm concerned about my water quality?

   Request the latest water quality report, consider home testing, and explore appropriate filtration options based on specific concerns.