Middleborough Water Supply

We're pleased to present our annual water quality report. As in previous years, we remain dedicated to delivering the highest quality water possible. Our team continues to be vigilant in meeting new regulatory challenges, protecting water resources, promoting conservation, and engaging with our community while serving all our customers' needs.

Thank you for allowing us to serve you and your family. We value your feedback on the information in this report. Well-informed customers are our greatest allies. For questions about this report or your water service, please contact Jordan Bumpus, Water Superintendent, at (508) 946-2482.

Water Source Information: Middleborough Water Department customers receive water from 11 groundwater sources, which produced over 598 million gallons (averaging 1.64 million gallons daily) in 2017. Our wells include East Grove Street, Rock #1 and #2, East Main Street #1 and #2, Tispaquin #1 (currently offline) and #2, Cross Road, Plympton Street, Miller Street, and Jazz Street, all located within the Taunton Water basin. Learn more about our watershed at www.EPA.gov/surf.

Important Health Information: Some individuals may be more vulnerable to contaminants in tap water 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 people, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek advice from their healthcare providers. The EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing Cryptosporidium and microbial contaminant risks are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or http://water.epa.gov/drink/hotline.

Water Content Information: To ensure safe tap water, MassDEP and EPA establish regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. FDA and Massachusetts DPH set similar limits for bottled water. All drinking water, including bottled varieties, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants, which doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk.

Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land surfaces or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive materials, and may pick up substances from animal or human activities.

Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) occurring naturally or resulting from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential use
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic compounds, byproducts of industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants, either naturally occurring or resulting from oil/gas production and mining

For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

Cross-Connection Information: Cross-connections contaminating water lines are a major concern. A cross-connection forms when a drinking water line connects to equipment containing chemicals (boilers, air conditioning, fire sprinkler systems, irrigation) or water sources of questionable quality. Contamination can occur when pressure in the equipment exceeds water line pressure (backpressure) or when water line pressure drops due to routine events like main breaks or high demand, pulling contaminants into the water line (back siphonage).

Garden hoses and outdoor taps are common cross-contamination sources at home. Hoses create hazards when submerged in pools or attached to chemical sprayers. Garden hoses left on the ground may be contaminated by fertilizers, cesspools, or garden chemicals. Improperly installed toilet valves can also cause cross-connection contamination. Our community water supplies are continually at risk from cross-connections unless appropriate backflow prevention devices are installed and maintained.

Why is my water occasionally discolored?
Water main breaks and hydrant flushing can dramatically increase water velocity. When flow increases, rust particles from inside the mains can be carried through the system into your home, causing discoloration. While discolored water remains safe to drink, we don't recommend doing laundry until it clears to prevent staining. Running your water for 5-15 minutes typically resolves the issue.

Why should I know my internal shut-off valve location?
Locating your internal shut-off valve allows you to quickly stop water flow during plumbing emergencies or leaks, preventing potential damage. These valves are typically found in crawl spaces, basements, or the lowest floor of buildings. Contact us if you need help locating yours.

Who's responsible for water and sewer service lines on my property?
Each property owner is responsible for maintaining the water and sewer service lines on their property—specifically, the lines extending from the water or sewer main to your home or building.

Who's responsible for the water meter in my home?
Property owners are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of water meters in their homes. Residential water meters typically have a 15-20 year useful lifespan.

How is my water usage measured?
Mount Werner Water's meters register usage in cubic meters. One cubic meter equals approximately 264.17 gallons.

Why does Mount Werner Water clear snow from fire hydrants?
We prioritize keeping areas around our 589 hydrants clear because they're essential for fire protection. If there's a hydrant near your property, please help keep it accessible for emergency situations.

Why do irrigation systems often run during rainfall?
Many sprinkler systems operate on timers, and owners sometimes forget to adjust them during rain. We encourage installing rain sensors to automatically interrupt operation during rainfall and monitoring weather conditions to conserve water and reduce your bills.

Why do you flush fire hydrants?
Hydrants are flushed for two key reasons: to ensure proper operation for fire protection and to maintain fresh water supply in the mains.

Is it safe to drink from natural water sources like lakes and streams?
No. Hikers and backpackers should never consume untreated water from natural sources, regardless of appearance. These waters may contain harmful pathogens, bacteria, or viruses. When in backcountry areas, purify water by:

1. Using a water purification filter (available at sporting goods stores)
2. Boiling water for at least three minutes to kill potential contaminants

How much water storage capacity does Mount Werner Water maintain?
Mount Werner Water maintains over 5.8 million gallons of water storage capacity within Steamboat Springs.