Milan Water Department

Is our municipal water safe? Yes, our water meets most EPA health standards. We've conducted extensive testing for over 70 potential contaminants. As shown in the charts at the back, we only detected a small number of these substances, all at levels deemed safe for consumption.

What's the source of our water? Our surface water comes from a sand aquifer. We're committed to protecting this source from contamination and work with the State to assess vulnerability. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has prepared a Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP) Survey for our untreated water sources. TDEC's SWAP Report evaluates potential contamination risks and rates water sources as slightly, moderately, or reasonably susceptible based on geological factors and human activities near the source.

Milan Public Utilities sources are rated as slightly susceptible to potential contamination. For Tennessee's Source Water Assessment Program details, visit Source Water Assessment. A wellhead protection plan is available for review by contacting Joe Waldrup at Milan Public Utilities between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays.

Why are there contaminants in my water? All water, including bottled water, can reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Este informe contiene información muy importante. Tradúscalo o hable con alguien que lo entienda bien. For more information about your municipal water, please call Joe Waldrup at 731-686-1537.

How can I get involved? Our Water Board meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 PM at Milan City Hall, located at 1061 South Main Street. The public is welcome to participate in these meetings.

Is our water system meeting regulations? State and EPA regulations require regular testing and reporting to ensure water safety. We've met all these requirements. Results of unregulated contaminant studies are available upon request.

Other Important Information: Municipal water sources include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or through ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and can pick up substances from animal or human activity.

Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) from urban runoff, industrial discharge, mining, farming, or natural sources
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants from natural sources, oil/gas production, or mining

EPA and Tennessee regulations limit contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safety. FDA regulations establish similar limits for bottled water.

Special Precautions: Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. Immunocompromised persons (cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, transplant recipients, those with HIV/AIDS or immune disorders, some elderly, and infants) may be particularly at risk. These individuals should seek advice about water consumption, food preparation, personal hygiene, and infant/pet care from healthcare providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminant risks are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Lead in Water: Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead primarily comes from materials in service lines and home plumbing. Milan Public Utilities provides quality water but cannot control plumbing material varieties. After water sits for several hours, minimize lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If concerned, have your water tested. Information on lead in water, testing methods, and exposure reduction is available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Water System Security: Following September 2001, we understand public concerns about water safety. Please report suspicious activities at utility facilities (treatment plants, tanks, hydrants, etc.) to 731-686-1537.

Think before you flush! Disposing of unused/expired medications improperly can harm your water supply. Protect yourself and the environment by using one of Tennessee's permanent pharmaceutical take-back bins. Nearly 100 bins are available statewide; find locations at Unwanted Pharmaceutical Take-back Program.

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