MCWA Genesee

Our primary water source is Lake Ontario, which is treated at our Shoremont Plant in Greece and our Webster Plant in Webster. We also operate the Corfu Plant, a small groundwater facility in the Village of Corfu, and purchase water from the City of Rochester and Erie County Water Authority (ECWA).

The Distribution System Map in our annual report shows typical service areas for each treatment plant. These boundaries shift daily as we manage water sources to optimize delivery to customers. The New York State Health Department has evaluated water supply vulnerability under the Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP).

Generally, the Great Lakes sources used by MCWA and ECWA have low susceptibility due to their size and quality. Hemlock and Canadice Lakes, utilized by the Hemlock Plant, are also well-protected by their controlled watersheds. The groundwater at the Corfu Plant has higher vulnerability, though the confined aquifer provides some protection from nearby contamination sources.

Since stormwater and wastewater contamination pose potential risks to any water source, all water undergoes rigorous treatment and testing before delivery. Our Lake Ontario plants and purchased water suppliers employ a multi-step process including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection. Coagulants cluster suspended particles for improved removal during filtration. Chlorine safely disinfects the water and maintains quality as it travels to homes. Fluoride is added to help prevent tooth decay.

The Corfu Water Plant process includes filtration, softening, and chlorine disinfection. All facilities comply fully with New York State and USEPA operational requirements. For more information on the State's Source Water Assessment program or protecting your water source, contact MCWA Customer Service at (585) 442-7200 or visit www.mcwa.com.

1. Is it safe to flush wet wipes and products labeled "flushable"? No. Unlike toilet paper, these products don't break down easily in sewer systems. "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, and other fibrous materials can form pipe blockages or tangle into knots that damage pumps. Severe clogs can cause sewer overflows. Help prevent issues by flushing only human waste and toilet paper—all other items belong in the trash!
2. Should I dispose of old medications in the toilet? No. Wastewater facilities aren't designed to remove pharmaceuticals, which can enter the water environment and affect wildlife and drinking water sources. The FDA recommends trash disposal instead. To prevent misuse, remove medications from original packaging and mix with coffee grounds or cat litter in a sealed container.
3. How does grease affect sewer systems? Grease solidifies as it cools. Even when mixed with hot water, it eventually separates and settles in plumbing and sewer lines. Over time, grease buildup significantly reduces pipe capacity or causes complete blockages, potentially leading to backups or overflows. Dispose of fats, oils and grease by pouring into a container and placing in the trash.
4. What is the wastewater treatment process? Visit our website for video and detailed overview of the treatment process.
5. What is activated sludge and how does it clean wastewater? "Activated sludge" consists of microorganisms that digest organic material in wastewater. These microorganisms clean the water by consuming organic matter and other contaminants. Wastewater remains in aeration basins approximately three hours, allowing microorganisms to grow and consume bacteria.