MVWA - Mohawk Valley Water Authority

Municipal water sources in our region include rivers, lakes, streams, reservoirs, springs, and groundwater wells. As water travels across land or through soil, it naturally dissolves minerals and can pick up substances from animal presence or human activities. Potential contaminants in source water include microbial, inorganic, pesticide, organic chemical, and radioactive compounds.

To ensure your tap water meets safety standards, both New York State and EPA regulations limit contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, the FDA establishes limits for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection. Our water originates from a pristine 374 square mile Adirondack Mountain watershed, far from urban development and agricultural activities.

The watershed's tributaries flow into West Canada Creek, which carries water to the New York State-owned Hinckley Reservoir—our primary water source. A comprehensive Source Water Assessment has been conducted for our water system, evaluating potential contamination threats and assigning susceptibility ratings based on contamination risks.

Our water treatment process began in 1992 with the completion of a state-of-the-art filtration plant near Prospect. The facility employs dual filtration technology designed to remove organic matter and contaminants, followed by chlorination for disinfection. Fluoride is added at 0.6 mg/l concentration to promote dental health, while calcium hydroxide and sodium carbonate help control household plumbing corrosion.

Our water system currently serves approximately 126,250 residents through 38,900 service connections. In 2018, we produced approximately 6.4 billion gallons of water, with an average daily treatment volume of 19.3 million gallons and a peak daily production of 21.9 million gallons.

1. What documentation is needed to establish water service? Renters must provide a lease agreement and landlord contact information. All applicants need identification (ID card or driver's license) and social security cards. If multiple names appear on the lease, ID cards for all parties are required.
2. What is the standard residential deposit amount? For relocations within city limits, the deposit is $75. If you have an outstanding balance at another location, the deposit increases to $150 and payment arrangements for the delinquent account are necessary. For locations outside city limits, deposits are $113 or $226 with delinquent balances.
3. What deposit amounts apply for commercial accounts? Within city limits, commercial deposits are $125, increasing to $250 with outstanding balances. For locations outside city limits, deposits are $188 or $376 with delinquent balances.
4. How quickly can service be activated? Applications processed before 4 PM on regular business days typically result in same-day service activation.
5. What options exist for bill payment extensions? Customers may request one extension per quarter by visiting our office prior to the due date.
6. How can I update account information after divorce? You'll need to provide a certified copy of your divorce decree, updated identification, and adjust the deposit to current requirements (paying any difference between previous and current deposit amounts).
7. What are your operating hours? Our office is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, with drive-through service available Fridays from 8 AM to 6 PM for payment processing.
8. Are payments deposited after hours considered on time? Any payments placed in the drop box after 5 PM on the due date are considered late and will incur penalties.