Scotts Valley Water District

Water Source Information

Municipal water comes from various sources including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and can pick up substances from animal or human activities. Several types of contaminants may be present:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants that can be naturally occurring or result from oil/gas production
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals that occur naturally or result from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, and farming

All water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, visit EPA.gov/safewater or call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

Source Water Assessment

In 2017, the District updated its 2001 source water assessment of District wells. These sources are considered most vulnerable to activities associated with contaminants detected in the water supply: dry-cleaning, gasoline storage and distribution, and manufacturing. The sources are also vulnerable to: abandoned wells, septic systems, transportation corridors, commercial facilities, and sewer systems. The complete assessment is available at the District Office or by email at contact@svwd.org.

Water Quality Regulations

To ensure tap water safety, the EPA and State Water Resources Control Board set regulations limiting contaminant amounts in public water systems. State Board regulations also establish limits for bottled water that provide similar public health protection. The Scotts Valley Water District and San Lorenzo Valley Water District maintain an intertie connection to provide mutual aid during water emergencies, with approximately 1.77 million gallons exchanged in 2017.

Common Water System Questions

What should I do if my pipes freeze?

1. Never use an open flame to thaw frozen pipes as this creates both fire and steam explosion hazards.
2. Use a hair dryer or heat lamp to safely thaw the frozen section.
3. Open a nearby faucet to release pressure and steam from melting ice.
4. If water is available at one tap but not another, the problem may be isolated to specific pipes.
5. If no water is available at any taps, the issue may be in the main line - call operations at 401-245-1856 or 401-245-5071.

What should I do if water is bubbling from the ground?

Immediately contact 401-245-1856 or 401-245-5071 to report this potential leak or water main break.

How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?

• Insulate water meters and pipes in unheated areas (garages, basements, crawl spaces)
• Insulate hot water pipes to reduce wait time for warm water
• Repair damaged windows, doors, and walls to prevent drafts
• Close all doors and windows near water pipes
• During cold weather (below 32°F), allow a slow trickle from faucets connected to vulnerable pipes
• Disconnect garden hoses and install covers on outdoor faucets
• Shut off water to outdoor faucets and drain these lines before winter