Meridian Township

This report offers vital information about your water quality. It explains the water source, treatment processes, and how it's maintained to be safe, reliable and pleasant-tasting before reaching your tap daily. While much of this information is required by regulations, the Authority has included additional details about this essential resource that may interest you.

The Authority aims to present this information clearly and usefully, while encouraging your understanding of our water quality. We also seek your help in protecting this resource now and for future generations. The Michigan Division of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversee the quality and availability of water produced by the Authority.

In 2017, the water produced by the Authority met all State and Federal regulations with zero violations of water quality standards. To ensure reliable and adequate water supply, the Authority employs maintenance staff who maintain proficiency through continuous training, education programs, and MDEQ certification. This keeps our team current with best practices and evolving regulations.

We encourage public interest in decisions about your water supply. Regular Board meetings occur at 7:30 a.m. on the third Thursday monthly at the Water Conditioning Plant, 2470 Burcham Drive. The public is welcome. For current meeting information, call (517) 337-7535.

The East Lansing-Meridian Water and Sewer Authority was formed as a joint venture between the City and Township to address water supply and quality needs. Since 1972, the Water Conditioning Plant has supplied softened water to both systems. Each community operates its separate water distribution utility.

Groundwater is pumped from 28 wells approximately 400 feet deep. Lime is added to reduce excess hardness, and Ferric Chloride treats fine particulate. The water passes through sand filters to remove any remaining cloudiness. Through this process, excess hardness is removed and recycled for agricultural soil improvement rather than discarded into sewers like home water softeners do.

Although the source water is very pure, we add Chloramine for thorough disinfection and freshness during delivery. We also add Fluoride to help prevent tooth decay, especially in children. In 2017, the Authority processed and pumped 2.1 billion gallons of treated water to the two communities.

Our operators perform numerous routine chemical analyses to ensure water freshness and pleasant taste. Additional sophisticated testing is conducted through outside labs for regulated and unregulated contaminants. This testing verifies consistent compliance with state and federal standards.

What can residents do to protect water quality?

1. Properly recycle or dispose of waste products and don't allow them to enter the water system, especially pharmaceuticals, solvents, oils or fuels.
2. Treat lawns and gardens carefully, using only necessary treatments in moderate amounts to prevent contamination of food and water sources.
3. Report all spills promptly so they can be cleaned up before entering lakes, streams or groundwater.
4. Report abandoned wells so they can be properly sealed to prevent contamination.
5. Support local community efforts for proper urban planning and development controls to preserve and protect groundwater recharge areas.