Sandusky City

In 2017, our laboratory met all requirements for water sample analysis by Kansas EPA for Total Microcystins-ADDA using ELISA methodology. Microcystin is the most common Bluegreen algal toxin found in water sources. Since 2011, Sandusky's water treatment process has effectively removed harmful algal toxins from Lake Erie water. All 2017 tap samples tested were free of microcystins.

Lead in Water Information: Water from our plant contains no detectable lead. Big Island Water Works adjusts pH levels to prevent acidic water and maintain stability, reducing the risk of metal absorption from household plumbing. We test pH every 4 hours and conduct weekly stability tests to ensure consistently safe water delivery.

Our 90th percentile lead results have remained low for over a decade, qualifying us for reduced testing frequency. In 2015, our 90th percentile was 6.8 ug/L, well below the federal action level of 15 ug/L. Next testing is scheduled for 2018.

Lead levels may vary between homes due to differences in plumbing materials. If present, elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from service lines and home plumbing components. While Sandusky Big Island Water Works provides high-quality water, we cannot control materials used in plumbing fixtures.

To reduce potential lead exposure, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking, especially when water has been sitting for several hours. For information about lead in water, testing methods, and exposure reduction, contact the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 or visit http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Water Source: Our system draws surface water from Lake Erie. The intake is located three-quarters of a mile offshore from Boards Point Chaussee. Lake water flows by gravity into Big Island Water Works through a 42" steel intake pipe.

Source Water Assessment: The Sandusky Public Water System uses surface water from two intakes: the main intake in Lake Erie and an emergency backup in Sandusky Bay. In Ohio, all surface waters are considered susceptible to contamination. Surface waters are easily accessible and can be contaminated by chemicals and pathogens relatively quickly.

Though our main intake is offshore in Lake Erie, nearby onshore sources increase contamination risk. The water source protection area is vulnerable to municipal sewage treatment plants, industrial wastewater, combined sewer overflows, home sewage disposal systems, open water dredge disposal, and accidental spills from commercial shipping and recreational boating.

The Sandusky Public Water System treats water to meet drinking water standards, but no single treatment can address all potential contaminants. Water quality can be further protected by implementing measures to safeguard Lake Erie. More information is available in the Sandusky Public Water System's Drinking Water Source Assessment report by calling 419.627.5805 or visiting the Ohio EPA's Source Water Assessment and Protection Program website at https://www.epa.state.oh.us/ddagw/pdu/swap.html.

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