Huntsville Utility District

Is my municipal water safe? Yes, our water meets all EPA health standards. We've conducted numerous tests for over 80 potential contaminants. As shown in the chart below, we only detected 9 of these substances.

What is the source of my water? We use surface water for our supply. Our goal is to protect our water from contaminants, and we work with the State to assess vulnerability of our water sources. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has prepared a Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP) Report for untreated water sources in our system.

The SWAP Report evaluates untreated water sources' susceptibility to potential contamination. To ensure safety, all public water systems treat and regularly test their water. Sources have been rated as reasonably susceptible, moderately susceptible or slightly susceptible based on geological factors and human activities near the source. Huntsville Utility District sources are rated as moderately susceptible.

For Tennessee's Source Water Assessment Program details, summaries, susceptibility scores and the complete TDEC report to EPA, visit https://www.tn.gov/environment/article/wr-wq-source-water-assessment or contact our Water Program.

Why are there contaminants in my water? All municipal water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least 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).

How can I get involved? Our Water Board meets on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at our office at 300 Larry Crowley Way. The public is welcome to attend. Board members serve four-year terms, with positions filled by consumer election on the third Saturday of August annually. Guidelines for the election process are available at our office.

Board decisions on consumer complaints can be reviewed by the Utility Management Review Panel of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation under Section 7-82-702(7) of Tennessee Code Annotated.

Other Important Information:

• Water sources include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells
• Water picks up minerals, radioactive materials, and substances from animal or human activity
• Contaminant categories include microbial, inorganic, pesticides/herbicides, organic chemicals, and radioactive materials

Special Precautions: Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons (cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, elderly, and infants) should seek advice from healthcare providers about municipal water. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing Cryptosporidium infection risk are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Lead in Municipal Water: Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead primarily comes from materials in service lines and home plumbing. Huntsville Utility District provides quality municipal water but cannot control plumbing component materials. Minimize lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. For information on lead testing and exposure reduction, visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-your-family%23water%23water

Water System Security: Following September 2001, we understand concerns about municipal water security. Please report suspicious activities at utility facilities, treatment plants, pumping stations, tanks, fire hydrants, etc. to 663-3550.

Pharmaceuticals in Water: Flushing expired medications can harm the water supply. Learn about proper medication disposal at local take-back programs.

1. How often is my water tested?

   Huntsville Utility District tests water quality daily, with comprehensive testing conducted monthly according to EPA guidelines.

2. Who regulates our local water quality?

   The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and the EPA jointly monitor and regulate municipal water quality standards.

3. What causes water hardness in our area?

   The surface water sources in our region naturally contain minerals like calcium and magnesium that contribute to water hardness.