Santa Margarita Water District

Water Disinfection Processes and Safety
Water disinfection represents one of the most significant public health advancements of the 20th century. Santa Margarita Water District utilizes chloramines (a combination of chlorine and ammonia) as the primary disinfectant in water imported from IRWD and MWDSC. This treatment effectively eliminates bacteria and microorganisms that could cause illness.

Balancing Disinfection and Byproducts
While chlorine effectively prevents bacterial growth in distribution pipes, it can react with naturally-occurring materials in water to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs) that may pose health risks. The Safe Drinking Water Act requires the EPA to establish regulations that balance protection against microbial pathogens while minimizing DBP health risks.

Regulated Disinfection Byproducts
Trihalomethanes (THMs) and Haloacetic Acids (HAAs) are the most common DBPs found in chlorine-treated water. The EPA has progressively strengthened regulations, with the Stage 2 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule finalized in 2006 to further control DBP levels without compromising disinfection effectiveness. Santa Margarita's water complies with these regulations.

Special Considerations for Sensitive Groups
Chloramines form fewer disinfection byproducts but require special precautions for dialysis patients, who should consult healthcare providers about appropriate water treatment. Fish owners should also make necessary water quality adjustments, as these disinfectants can be toxic to aquatic life.

Vulnerable Populations
Some individuals may be more vulnerable to contaminants in municipal water than the general population. This includes people with compromised immune systems (cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients), elderly persons, and infants. These individuals should seek advice about water consumption from healthcare providers.

Cryptosporidium Information
Cryptosporidium is a microorganism that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms when ingested. It originates from animal and human waste and may be found in surface water. MWDSC tested source and treated surface water for Cryptosporidium in 2016 with no detections. The treatment process—including sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection—effectively eliminates this pathogen.

Lead in Tap Water
If present, elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead primarily enters water through service line materials and home plumbing components. SMWD provides high-quality water but cannot control plumbing material choices. To minimize potential lead exposure after water has been sitting for several hours, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking.

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