Santa Paula Water System

Substances That Could Be in Water

The sources of municipal water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels across land surfaces or through the ground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive materials, and can pick up substances from animal presence or human activity.

To ensure tap water safety, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and State Water Resources Control Board (State Board) establish regulations limiting certain contaminants in public water systems. U.S. FDA regulations and California law also set similar limits for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

All municipal water, including bottled water, can reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. Potential contaminants in source water include:

• Microbial Contaminants: Viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic Contaminants: Salts and metals occurring naturally or resulting from urban runoff, industrial/domestic wastewater, oil/gas production, or farming
• Pesticides & Herbicides: From various sources including agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses
• Organic Chemical Contaminants: Synthetic and volatile organic compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, stormwater runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive Contaminants: Naturally occurring or resulting from oil/gas production and mining activities

For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the U.S. EPA's Safe Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

The CDC provides guidance on household water treatment and safe storage practices. They recommend regular testing of private wells and offer information about potential waterborne diseases and prevention methods. Visit their website for comprehensive resources on ensuring your water is safe for consumption.