Somerset Water Department

MUNICIPAL WATER QUALITY STANDARDS

Somerset Water Department (SWD) is pleased to present our Annual Municipal Water Quality Report for 2018. This comprehensive report details the quality of water delivered to residents of Somerset throughout the year.

Our Water Sources:

• Somerset Reservoir (primary source)
• Labor in Vain Brook and Segregansett River (supplemental sources)
• Dighton well field (serves small percentage of customers)

Water Treatment Process:

• Filtration to remove particles and microorganisms
• pH adjustment to reduce plumbing corrosion
• Disinfection to protect against microbial contaminants
• Fluoride addition to promote dental health

In 2018, we conducted over 1,400 tests to ensure water quality meets or exceeds regulatory standards. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) has rated our Dighton well as having "Moderate" susceptibility and the Somerset Reservoir as having "High" susceptibility in their Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP).

Health Information:

Municipal water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain small amounts of some contaminants. The EPA and MADEP set strict Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) to ensure public safety. Some individuals may be particularly vulnerable to contaminants, including those with compromised immune systems, the elderly, and infants. These individuals should seek advice from healthcare providers.

Lead Information:

Our testing shows lead levels below EPA allowable limits. If present, elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead typically comes from materials associated with service lines and home plumbing. To minimize potential exposure, run your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Information about testing is available at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

System Improvements:

This past year, we upgraded the well treatment system, improved the distribution system to reduce water age, repaired our intake structure, and began our meter replacement program. Somerset Water Department also maintains a cross-connection control program to protect water quality.

We appreciate your continued support and encourage all customers to help protect our valuable water resources. For questions about this report, please contact Christopher E. Wickman, Chief Operator and Plant Manager at (508) 674-4215 or visit townofsomerset.org/waterdepartment.

1. Why is my bill higher than normal?
   Several common situations could lead to increased water usage: recent leaks, running toilets, additional household guests, or outdoor water use for gardens, lawns, or vehicle washing. If you're concerned about your bill, contact our office and we'll help identify the cause.
2. What documentation do I need to establish service?
   Visit our office with photo identification (driver's license or military ID), your Social Security card, and either proof of ownership or a copy of your lease agreement if renting.
3. Can I request an extension if I cannot pay by the disconnection date?
   We offer two extensions annually—one between January-June and another between July-December. We provide an additional week after the disconnect date before service interruption.
4. What payment methods are accepted?
   We offer multiple convenient options: online payments, in-person at our office, drive-through window service, bank drafts, or phone payments. We accept cash, money orders, personal checks, Visa® and MasterCard.
5. Where is your office located?
   Our office is at 1900 Marshall Road. Visit our website for directions and a map.
6. Is a deposit required, and how much is it?
   Yes, town ordinance requires a meter deposit for every address. The standard deposit is $65.00 plus any applicable service fees, with a maximum total of $90.00 including service charges.
7. Why don't meter readers visit my property?
   For improved accuracy and efficiency, we use radio-read meters that transmit data remotely, eliminating the need for in-person visits.
8. Where is my water meter located?
   Most meters are located near the front of your property within a few feet of the street. Contact our office for the exact location of your meter.
9. How do I transfer service between locations in town?
   Current customers with active deposits can request transfers by phone. Your account must be in good standing before transferring, and a service fee will appear on your first bill at the new location.
10. Am I eligible for a billing adjustment after a water leak?
    We provide one billing adjustment per calendar year for verified leaks. Submit a plumber's receipt showing the repair has been completed, and we'll adjust your bill based on your average usage.
11. What's the source of our municipal water?
    Approximately 51% comes from Lake Maumelle in Little Rock, Arkansas, with the remaining 49% from our wells in Lonoke County.