Monticello Water & Sewer Commission

Our primary water source is Lake Cumberland, a surface water reservoir. The Monticello Water/Sewer Commission regularly evaluates susceptibility to contamination from the Lake Cumberland Reservoir, which currently indicates a low risk level.

Within the critical safety zone, we've identified five potential contaminant sources rated as high risk, three rated as moderate risk, and none classified as low risk. Non-point source contamination from land coverage, connections, and roadways represent the primary potential contamination concerns for our system.

The location of our Lake Cumberland water intakes and the remote watershed area contribute to our system's low contamination risk profile. The complete source water assessment is available for review at our water office during regular business hours.

All municipal water, including bottled varieties, may reasonably contain small amounts of certain contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, please contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels across land or underground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, and may pick up substances from animal presence or human activity.

Potential contaminants in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants like viruses and bacteria from sewage facilities, septic systems, livestock operations, or wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants such as salts and metals occurring naturally or from stormwater runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from stormwater runoff, agriculture, or residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, stormwater runoff, or waste systems
• Radioactive contaminants occurring naturally or from oil/gas production or mining activities

To ensure tap water safety, the EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, FDA regulations set contaminant limits for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general public. Immunocompromised individuals—including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants—may face heightened infection risks. These individuals should seek drinking water advice from their healthcare providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminant infection risks are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from materials and components in service lines and home plumbing. While our system provides high-quality water, we cannot control the materials used in plumbing components. When water has remained stagnant for several hours, you can minimize potential lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If concerned about lead, consider having your water tested. Information about lead in water, testing methods, and exposure reduction measures is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

How to Detect Water Leaks

1. Locate your water meter, typically in a front yard pit beneath a metal lid. You'll need pliers to remove the cover.
2. If multiple meters are present, yours is the one closest to your home.
3. Most meters have scanners allowing readings without lid removal. When handling the lid, avoid damaging the connecting wire.
4. Turn off all water fixtures in your home.
5. Check the leak detector on the meter face (usually a small red triangle or dial).
6. If this indicator moves while water is off, you likely have a leak.
7. Toilets are common culprits - test by adding food coloring to the tank and checking if it appears in the bowl after 15-20 minutes without flushing.
8. Other common sources include faulty sprinkler systems and worn faucets.

Does the District handle indoor plumbing repairs?

No. The District's responsibility ends at the water meter. All water lines and equipment on the customer's side are the customer's responsibility. Similarly, all components on the District's side (including the meter) are maintained by the District.

How to Shut Off Your Water Supply

Every home, apartment, and business has a master shut-off valve somewhere inside. In emergencies, knowing this location is crucial. The valve is typically where the water supply enters the building, often near water heaters or washing machines. Once located, mark it with bright paint or a tag, and ensure it turns easily. Keep a wrench nearby if needed. If you cannot locate your shut-off or need the water turned off at the meter, contact our office anytime for assistance.

Where should I connect irrigation systems or yard hydrants?

Make connections at least 5 feet from the meter pit on the customer's side of the service line.

Average Household Water Usage

A typical residential household uses approximately 180,000 gallons of water annually. About 50% goes to landscape irrigation, with the remainder used indoors for various fixtures and appliances.

Common Causes of Unexpectedly High Water Usage

• Poorly adjusted sprinkler systems resulting in excess irrigation
• Power outages affecting sprinkler controllers
• Over-watering on slopes due to missing sprinkler heads or broken pipes
• Garden hoses accidentally left running
• Leaking toilets or plumbing fixtures