Norwood City PWS

Municipal water, including bottled varieties, typically contains at least minimal amounts of various contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For comprehensive information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Certain individuals may have increased vulnerability to water contaminants compared to the general population. This includes people undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS or immune disorders, some elderly residents, and infants. These groups should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption. EPA/CDC guidelines for reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline.

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health complications, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead primarily enters drinking water through service line materials and household plumbing components. While Norwood City PWS delivers high-quality water, they cannot control materials used in home plumbing systems. To minimize potential lead exposure, run your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption after it has been sitting for several hours. If concerned, consider having your water tested. Information about lead in water is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels across land or underground, it dissolves natural minerals and sometimes radioactive materials while also potentially collecting substances from animal presence or human activity. Source water may contain microbial contaminants (viruses/bacteria), inorganic contaminants (salts/metals), pesticides and herbicides, organic chemical contaminants, and radioactive substances from various natural and human-made sources.

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

Why is Ute Water Conservancy District switching to chloramines?

Chloramine disinfection helps comply with stringent health standards under the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Act. This method reduces byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) that form when chlorine interacts with natural organic compounds in surface water.

When did Ute Water change to chloramines?

Ute Water began implementing chloramines in their treatment process on Monday, January 22, 2007.

Who might be affected by this change?

All Norwood City PWS customers will receive chloraminated water. Special attention is needed for aquarium owners and kidney dialysis patients. Emergency water sharing with neighboring districts (City of Grand Junction, Clifton Water District, Town of Palisade) during maintenance or repairs means these systems may occasionally receive chloraminated water.

What precautions should kidney dialysis patients take?

Dialysis patients can safely drink, cook and bathe with chloraminated water, but chloramines must be removed from water used in dialysis machines. Dialysis systems already filter chlorine, but adjustments may be necessary for chloramine removal. Home dialysis providers can typically make these modifications, but patients should consult their physicians. Medical facilities performing dialysis have been notified of this treatment change.

What precautions should fish owners take?

Chloramines must be removed from water used in fish tanks, ponds, reptile habitats, turtle enclosures, and amphibian environments. Unlike chlorine which dissipates naturally, chloramines persist and require specific treatment. Pet stores can provide appropriate water conditioners designed for chloramine removal or activated carbon filtration systems.

Is chloramine water treatment new?

No, many cities throughout the United States and Canada have used chloramines as disinfectants for decades.

Are chloramines safe?

Yes. The EPA approves chloramines as a disinfectant that helps prevent formation of potentially harmful byproducts. Chloraminated water remains safe for drinking, bathing, cooking and everyday uses. Only kidney dialysis patients and aquarium owners need to take special precautions.