Madison Water Utility Water Company

HOW WE KEEP YOUR WATER SAFE

The high-quality aquifer supplying our municipal water requires minimal treatment. Madison Water Utility uses chlorine disinfection to minimize microbial contamination risks. A small chlorine dose effectively eliminates bacteria and viruses potentially present in groundwater. This chlorine also travels through the distribution system, ready to neutralize any microbes encountered along the way. We maintain chlorine levels above 0.1 milligrams per liter (mg/L) throughout the system, with typical concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 0.4 mg/L.

ADDITIONAL WATER TREATMENTS

Fluoride is added to Madison municipal water to enhance dental health and reduce tooth decay. Following CDC and Wisconsin Department of Health Services recommendations, we maintain an average fluoride level of 0.7 mg/L. Each well undergoes daily testing to ensure this target is met. In 2017, our system-wide average across 6,318 tests was 0.71 mg/L.

Additionally, two wells utilize iron and manganese filtration systems. A third well features a low-profile air stripper to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like PCE and TCE. After air stripping, we add a pH adjustment compound to prevent pipe-clogging mineral scales.

WATER QUALITY REPORTING

This annual report meets all federal and state municipal water regulations requiring annual water quality information for customers. Unless noted otherwise, results reflect 2017 testing. We're proud to consistently deliver high-quality water meeting or exceeding all federal and state health and safety standards. Visit madisonwater.org to explore our programs and initiatives.

FINDING YOUR WATER SOURCE

The Madison water system comprises 22 wells connected by over 850 miles of pipes. Most locations receive water from one to three wells. Our website features a tool to identify which wells supply your home or business, with links to detailed reports containing latest water quality test results.

SPECIAL HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. People with compromised immune systems—including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly residents, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their municipal water consumption. For guidelines on reducing Cryptosporidium and other microbial contamination risks, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

1. Where does Madison Water Utility water come from?
   Madison Water Utility supplies groundwater to Madison, Wisconsin.
2. Does Madison Water Utility test its tap water?
   Yes. Like every public water system, Madison Water Utility must test its water under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and publish an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report). Ask the utility for the latest report or look for it on its website.
3. How do I contact Madison Water Utility?
   Call 608-266-4661 or visit 210 Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard, Madison, WI 53703, or use the contact options on the utility’s website.
4. Does Madison Water Utility water contain lead?
   Water usually leaves the treatment plant without lead. Lead can enter tap water from older service lines, solder and brass fixtures inside homes, especially when water sits in the pipes. Run the tap before drinking if water has been sitting, and ask the utility about lead testing and service line records.
5. Is Madison Water Utility water hard?
   Hardness depends on the source and changes over time. The annual water quality report lists hardness, or you can test it at home. If it is above about 7 grains per gallon, a water softener sized to your measured hardness will stop scale and spotting.