Manatee County Utilities Department

Sources of tap water (both municipal and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, and can pick up substances from animal presence or human activity.

Potential contaminants in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants such as viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants including salts and metals that may be naturally-occurring or result from urban runoff, industrial discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from various sources including agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants including synthetic and volatile organic compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants that may be naturally-occurring or result from oil and gas production and mining activities

To ensure tap water safety, the EPA establishes regulations limiting certain contaminants in public water systems. The FDA similarly regulates bottled water for public health protection. All water sources, including bottled water, reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants, which doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

Water Purification Process:

The Manatee County Water Purification Plant, located on Lake Manatee's shore, treats both groundwater and surface water. Groundwater undergoes aeration, lime-softening, and filtration to remove odors, reduce hardness, and eliminate suspended matter and microorganisms. Surface water is treated with carbon adsorbent, coagulation, sedimentation, and filtration to remove odors, color, suspended particles, and microorganisms.

After filtration, the combined water receives final enhancements: disinfection to eliminate microbes and prevent microbial growth in distribution systems and household plumbing; corrosion control to protect plumbing infrastructure; and fluoride adjustment to optimal levels for dental health and bone strength.

The facility is staffed by state-certified professionals who operate and maintain the advanced water treatment systems while continuously monitoring water quality parameters.

1. What contaminants are most concerning in Manatee County water? The primary contaminants of concern include Bromodichloromethane, Nitrite, and Chromium (hexavalent).
2. How often is the water tested? Water is tested regularly according to EPA regulations, with results published annually in the Water Quality Report.
3. Is the water hard in Manatee County? Yes, residents may experience elevated levels of water hardness which can affect appliances and plumbing fixtures.
4. Where does Manatee County source its water? The primary source is surface water, collected from Lake Manatee and other surface reservoirs.
5. How can I improve my home's water quality? Consider installing a water filtration system designed to address the specific contaminants in your area.