Lewiston Orchards Irrigation District

Water contaminants come in various forms that affect your household's safety. Microbial contaminants include bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms that may be benign or harmful if they originate from septic systems, agricultural operations, or wildlife. Heavy metals and inorganic salts might occur naturally or result from urban runoff, industrial discharge, or agricultural activities.

Pesticides and herbicides typically come from farming practices and residential lawn care. Radioactive elements occur naturally or result from mining and energy production. Synthetic organic compounds evaporate easily, including petroleum products and cleaning solvents that enter water systems through stormwater runoff.

The EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safety. While bottled water follows FDA standards offering similar protections, tap water delivers comparable safety at a fraction of the cost, directly to your home.

Certain populations face greater risks from water contaminants than others. Individuals with compromised immune systems—cancer patients undergoing treatment, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, some elderly individuals, and infants—may be particularly vulnerable to infections. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption. Guidelines for reducing infection risk from Cryptosporidium and other contaminants are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

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