Lakehurst WSD

DENVER WATER'S QUALITY PROGRAM

Denver Water proudly delivers premium municipal water to 1.4 million residents across Denver and surrounding suburbs. Since 1918, we've expertly planned and managed a sophisticated system providing clean, safe, great-tasting water. We operate as a public agency funded through water rates and tap fees, not taxes, serving as Colorado's oldest and largest water utility.

Our service area spans over 360 square miles, supplying 25% of Colorado's population while using less than 2% of the state's total water. Environmental stewardship remains our priority through promoting responsible water usage.

Water quality is our paramount concern. In 2017, we collected over 35,000 samples and conducted more than 68,500 tests to ensure water safety. Denver Water vigilantly protects mountain water supplies and carefully treats water before distribution.

WATER SOURCES

Denver's water originates from high-quality mountain snowmelt that feeds rivers, lakes, streams and reservoirs. Our supply comes entirely from surface water sources within a 4,000 square mile watershed on both Continental Divide sides.

We store water in five mountain reservoirs: Antero, Nine Mile Canyon, Cheesman, Dillon, and Gross. From these reservoirs, water travels to treatment plants through streams, canals and pipes. After treatment, water moves via gravity and pumps through over 3,000 miles of pipeline to reach homes and businesses.

TREATMENT PROCESS

1. COAGULATION/FLOCCULATION: Raw water receives alum and polymer additives that cause small particles to combine into larger ones.
2. SEDIMENTATION: These larger particles settle to basin bottoms for removal.
3. FILTRATION: Water passes through granulated material layers (sand or sand/coal combinations) to remove smaller particles.
4. DISINFECTION: Disinfectants eliminate remaining bacteria, viruses and microbes before distribution. Fluoride occurs naturally but is supplemented.
5. CORROSION CONTROL: Alkaline substances maintain proper pH to reduce corrosion in distribution pipes and household plumbing.

WATER QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS

All water sources, including bottled water, may contain small amounts of contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate health risks. Immuno-compromised individuals, including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, some elderly, and infants may face higher infection risks and should seek medical advice about water consumption.

LEAD AWARENESS

Since 1992, Denver Water has tested at-risk homes for lead contamination. Our source water, treated water, and distribution system water contain no detectable lead and only trace copper. Lead enters water through lead-containing household plumbing. Homes built before 1951 may have lead service lines, while homes built before 1987 may contain lead solder. Softened water increases corrosion risk.

To reduce potential lead exposure, flush taps for up to two minutes after water has been sitting. For concerns, consider water testing. Information is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

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