Humboldt CSD

A Note About Lead in Municipal Water: Lead in tap water poses a significant health risk that we take very seriously. We conduct regular monitoring for lead and copper at customer taps and carefully analyze the data to ensure levels remain well below regulatory limits.

It's important to understand that most lead contamination comes from household plumbing, where it can leach from pipes and fixtures. Both older and newer homes face different risks. Older homes may have plumbing fixtures with higher lead content and lead solder in copper pipes. Newer homes can be vulnerable because water hasn't had time to build a protective scale layer that prevents direct contact between water and metal components.

Recent regulations limiting lead content in plumbing fixtures will continue driving down lead measurements nationwide. If you'd like to review our lead and copper results, visit: https://gemgrp.com/eReports/CNMA000137Y18.pdf

For additional information about lead in municipal water, the American Water Works Association has created an educational resource: http://www.drinktap.org/water-info/whats-in-my-water/lead-in-water.asp

Please contact us with any questions about lead or other water quality concerns. We prioritize transparency and will always take time to address your inquiries.

1. Does the water utility fluoridate its water?
   Yes. Our water is fluoridated according to state and federal guidelines. Current fluoridation levels can be found in the most recent Consumer Confidence Report available on our website in both English and Spanish. For information about fluoridation in our state, refer to the health department's resources on cavity prevention.
2. Why is fluoride added to water? Is it safe?
   We add fluoride to our water treatment centers to maintain optimal levels for protection against tooth decay. Fluoride is maintained just below the current EPA recommended minimum of 0.7 milligrams per liter.
3. Why does my tap water sometimes appear cloudy or milky?
   Cloudy water typically results from tiny air bubbles, similar to carbonation in soft drinks. This occurs most commonly during winter when cold water containing dissolved air warms inside household plumbing or water heaters. Cold water naturally holds more air than warm water. When this warmed water flows from your tap into a glass, the air bubbles rise and the water clears. This phenomenon poses no health concerns.
4. What causes the chlorine taste or smell in my water?
   Regulations require us to maintain disinfectant (chlorine) residuals throughout the distribution system to protect against harmful bacteria. This sometimes results in noticeable chlorine tastes and odors. If you find this unpleasant, refrigerate water in a container with a loose cap, allowing chlorine odors to dissipate naturally. Alternatively, use a pitcher with an activated carbon filter or install a point-of-use treatment device certified under ANSI/NSF Standard 42 for aesthetic improvements.
5. I have an aquarium or pond. What should I know about water treatment chemicals?
   Our utility uses chloramine (a chlorine-ammonia compound) as a disinfectant. While this makes your water safe for human consumption, it's toxic to aquatic organisms and must be neutralized before use in aquariums or ponds. Chloramine will harm both freshwater and saltwater fish, as well as other aquatic life including Koi, lobster, shrimp, frogs, turtles, snails, clams, and coral. Use a water conditioner specifically designed to remove chloramine, following product instructions carefully.