Leominster Water Division

YOUR TAP WATER SOURCES The City of Leominster sits entirely within the Nashua River basin, spanning approximately 30 square miles. The western half primarily consists of protected state forest and watershed lands. The City obtains municipal water from several reservoirs including:

• The Distributing Reservoir system (Haynes and Morse Reservoirs)
• Fallbrook Reservoir at Wachusett Street
• The Notown Reservoir system (includes Goodfellow Pond and Simonds Reservoirs)
• Southeast Corner Well Fields at Jungle Road

Leominster maintains an emergency connection to the Wachusett Reservoir for backup supply.

SOURCE WATER ASSESSMENT In 2004, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) completed a Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) report for Leominster's water system. MassDEP assigned an average vulnerability rating of "high" based on at least one high-risk land use within the protection areas. The report commends Leominster for proactive source protection through land acquisition, sewer installation, and ongoing public education.

WATER QUALITY INFORMATION The EPA and MassDEP establish regulations limiting contaminants in public water systems, similar to FDA regulations for bottled water. All water sources naturally contain some contaminants, though their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels across land or underground, it dissolves natural minerals and can pick up substances from animal or human activities. Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants - viruses and bacteria from sewage plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants - naturally-occurring or human-activity salts and metals
• Pesticides and herbicides - from agriculture, stormwater runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants - industrial byproducts and petroleum production
• Radioactive contaminants - naturally occurring or from resource extraction activities

SPECIAL HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants, including those with compromised immune systems, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, the elderly, and infants. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about drinking water safety.

LEAD INFORMATION Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in tap water primarily comes from home plumbing materials. While Leominster Water Division provides quality water, we cannot control plumbing component materials. Running water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes after periods of non-use can reduce potential lead exposure. For concerns about lead, consider water testing. Information is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS Leominster Water Division continues improving the Notown Plant to control disinfection byproducts and enhance overall water quality. Recent improvements include:

• Filter media replacement and new air scouring system installation (2015-2016)
• Construction of a new Distributing Reservoir plant
• Rebuilding and adding pre-filter clarification at Notown Plant
• Addressing seasonal manganese issues at Fallbrook Reservoir
• Building a new chlorine injection and corrosion control facility at Southeast Wells
• Distribution system improvements including 7,400 linear feet of new water mains in 2017
• Implementation of a semi-annual water main flushing program
• Upgrade of meter reading systems
• Repair or replacement of 55 hydrants

CROSS CONNECTION INFORMATION Residents should be aware of potential contamination through cross connections - when pipes or hoses connect to containers or equipment. During pressure drops from main breaks, contaminants can backflow into drinking water pipes. This risk can be prevented by installing proper backflow prevention devices or maintaining air gaps. Simple, low-cost Hose Bib Vacuum Breakers are available at plumbing supply stores to prevent backflow when using water hoses.

1. How often is Leominster's water tested? The water is tested regularly according to EPA and state requirements, with different contaminants monitored at varying frequencies from daily to annually.
2. What causes water hardness in Leominster? Minerals like calcium and magnesium from the surface water sources contribute to water hardness levels.
3. How can residents report water quality concerns? Contact the Water Division at 978-534-7500 or email the department directly with specific concerns.
4. Are water filters necessary for Leominster residents? While the municipal water meets safety standards, some residents choose filtration for taste preference or to address specific concerns about contaminants.