Milwaukee Waterworks

Lake Michigan serves as the primary source of Milwaukee's municipal water supply. As water travels through natural waterways and over land, it can collect various substances commonly referred to as "contaminants." Surface water sources like Lake Michigan may be particularly vulnerable to contamination, especially in heavily populated areas with significant human and animal activity.

The latest DNR Source Water Assessment for Milwaukee is available online at http://city.Milwaukee.gov/water/waterquality. Potential substances found in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants including viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens
• Inorganic contaminants such as metals and salts
• Agricultural chemicals including herbicides and pesticides
• Organic chemical compounds
• Radioactive substances

Since 1993, Milwaukee Water Works has invested $508 million in infrastructure improvements to ensure reliable delivery of clean, safe water. The utility employs ozone as its primary disinfectant—this reactive gas effectively neutralizes harmful microorganisms, eliminates taste and odor issues, and reduces disinfection byproducts. In addition to ozone treatment, the facility utilizes coagulation, sedimentation, biologically active filtration, and chloramine disinfection.

All water, including bottled varieties, can reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's safe water hotline (800-426-4791) or visit http://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations.

Milwaukee Water Works is an active member of the American Water Works Association, Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, Water Research Foundation, Wisconsin Section of the AWWA, and Great Lakes Resource Water Initiative.

1. How often is Milwaukee's municipal water tested? Water samples are tested multiple times daily for basic parameters, with comprehensive testing conducted monthly for regulated contaminants.
2. What causes water hardness in Milwaukee? The presence of naturally occurring minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium, contributes to water hardness in the Milwaukee area.
3. How can residents address water quality concerns? Residents can install appropriate water filtration systems based on specific contaminants identified in their water supply.
4. Are PFAS chemicals present in Milwaukee's water? Regular testing monitors for these "forever chemicals," with current levels below EPA health advisory guidelines.