Natick Water Department

We are pleased to present our annual water quality report. As in previous years, we remain dedicated to delivering the highest quality water possible. We continue to meet the challenges of new regulations, source water protection, water conservation, and community outreach while serving all water users effectively.

Where Does My Water Come From?
The Town of Natick obtains water from 10 groundwater wells across five locations. Eight sources are located in Natick (Springvale, Evergreen, Pine Oaks, and Morse Pond wells), while the Elm Bank wells are situated in Dover, Massachusetts. Springvale, Evergreen, and Elm Bank serve as primary sources, with Morse Pond and Pine Oaks functioning as backup during high-demand periods. The Springvale treatment facility on Route 9 processes water from both Springvale and Evergreen wells. Our distribution system includes approximately 196 miles of water mains and two storage facilities with a combined capacity of 9 million gallons.

Health Information
Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. Those with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly individuals, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek advice from healthcare providers regarding safe water consumption. Guidelines from the EPA/CDC on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Source Water Assessment Program
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has completed a Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP) report for our water supply. The report identifies key issues including hazardous material storage, residential land use, transportation corridors, and contamination sites within our protection areas. The report commends our existing protection measures while recommending development of a comprehensive wellhead protection plan and expanded emergency response coordination.

Water Main Flushing
Distribution pipes transport water throughout your neighborhood. While water entering these mains is high quality, deterioration can occur over time. Flushing—sending rapid water flow through mains—removes sediments like iron and manganese that affect taste, clarity, and color. This process also eliminates stale water and ensures proper disinfectant levels. During flushing in your area, temporary water quality changes may occur. If using tap water, run cold water at full pressure for several minutes before use and avoid hot water to prevent sediment accumulation in your water heater.

Water Conservation Tips
You can help conserve water while saving money by being mindful of household usage:

• Load dishwashers to capacity—they use 15 gallons regardless of load size
• Turn off faucets while brushing teeth
• Check for leaks—even a slow drip wastes 15-20 gallons daily (6,000+ gallons annually)
• Monitor toilet leaks with food coloring in the tank—invisible leaks can waste 100 gallons daily (35,000+ gallons yearly)
• Use your water meter to detect hidden leaks by turning off all taps and checking if the meter moves after 15 minutes

Lead in Home Plumbing
Elevated lead levels pose serious health risks, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water primarily comes from materials in service lines and home plumbing. While we provide high-quality water, we cannot control plumbing component materials. When 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, consider having your water tested. Information about lead in drinking water is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at www.epa.gov/lead.

Fluoridation Benefits
Fluoride naturally occurs in trace amounts in many water supplies. In our system, fluoride is adjusted to an optimal level (averaging 0.7 parts per million) to promote dental health in children. At this concentration, it remains safe, odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Our water system has provided this treatment since 1995, benefiting over 4 million people across 140 Massachusetts water systems.

1. What contaminants are regularly tested in Natick's water supply?
   Natick Water Department routinely tests for over 100 contaminants including disinfection byproducts, inorganic compounds, volatile organic compounds, and microbiological contaminants.
2. How often is municipal water tested?
   Testing frequency varies by contaminant type. Some tests occur daily (like chlorine levels), while others follow quarterly, annual, or three-year schedules as required by state and federal regulations.
3. What causes water hardness in Natick?
   Water hardness in Natick primarily results from dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium in the groundwater sources. These minerals naturally occur in the underground aquifers that supply our wells.
4. Are there special considerations for vulnerable populations?
   Yes, individuals with compromised immune systems, the elderly, pregnant women, and infants may need to take additional precautions with their water. Consultation with healthcare providers is recommended for these groups.
5. How can residents report water quality concerns?
   Water quality issues can be reported directly to Natick Water Department at 508-647-6400 or via email at mmalone@natickma.org. Prompt reporting helps address problems quickly.