Rochester City

The City consistently invests in its water infrastructure through a robust annual capital improvement program. In 2017, the Water Bureau allocated over $8 million for system enhancements to the Hemlock Purification Plant, transmission network, distribution system, reservoirs and dams.

Key program highlights include:

• Installation of 1.4 miles of new water mains, including valves, hydrants and service lines
• Cleaning and lining of 3.9 miles of existing water mains in the City's distribution network
• Upgrades to filtration plant software, controls and security systems

The City also maintained ongoing programs such as installing new water meters (4,661 in 2017), inspecting all fire hydrants, operating main line valves, conducting water main flushing, and regular water sampling and testing.

The 2017 Water Quality Report confirms that Rochester has again met or exceeded all water standards established by the EPA and New York State Department of Health. The City provides water to 210,500 residents and numerous businesses, while also supplying wholesale water to districts in Lima, Livingston County Water and Sewer Authority, and Monroe County Water Authority.

Rochester's water comes primarily from Hemlock and Canadice Lakes, with supplemental water purchased from MCWA's Shoremont treatment plant on Lake Ontario. The Hemlock Water Filtration Plant can process up to 48 million gallons daily using coagulation, filtration and disinfection methods.

The Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP) has evaluated the Hemlock/Canadice Lake watershed for potential contamination sources, though testing confirms minimal environmental impact. Water quality remains a top priority through participation in the Partnership for Safe Water program, with the Hemlock Filtration Plant earning the "Director's Award for Filtration Plants" for 16 consecutive years.

Are there places with water shortages in America?

Several coastal regions in California face freshwater supply challenges. To address these shortages, communities implement various solutions including desalination technology that removes salt from seawater, and infrastructure projects that transport water from water-rich areas through underground pipeline networks. Engineers continually develop efficient and reliable methods to ensure water availability across all communities.

How are water rates determined?

Public water utilities typically establish their rates independently without state utility commission approval. Private companies, however, must petition their state's Public Utilities Commission when seeking rate increases. These private companies are entitled to earn reasonable returns on prudent capital investments, though specific returns aren't guaranteed and depend on operational efficiency. Regulators evaluate both capital investments and operational practices when considering rate adjustments.

How can I prepare for a drought?

Many areas experience water shortages due to drier, warmer weather patterns and ongoing resource challenges. When conservation becomes mandatory, local authorities provide specific guidance. Visit our Wise Water Use section for practical conservation strategies.

How does my water reach my tap?

The water infrastructure system consists of three primary components: pumping stations that extract raw water from sources like aquifers or rivers; treatment facilities where water is purified to meet EPA standards; and the distribution network—a complex system of pipes spanning over 700,000 miles nationwide (more than triple the length of the National Highway System). American Water maintains 48,000 miles of pipeline throughout their systems.

Is bottled water better than tap water?

No evidence demonstrates that bottled water is superior to tap water. All municipal water must meet strict standards established by the EPA under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Community water systems undergo frequent testing for regulatory compliance, while bottled water suppliers face less stringent requirements.

Who sets water quality standards?

The EPA establishes water purity and quality standards under increasingly stringent regulations that require continuous updates to treatment methods, technology, and chemical solutions. Nearly all public water supplies in the United States meet these safety standards, which limit contaminant concentrations or, when measurement isn't possible, mandate specific treatment processes like disinfection and filtration.