South Tahoe PUD - Main

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS FOR VULNERABLE RESIDENTS: Some community members may have heightened sensitivity to water contaminants compared to the general population. Individuals with compromised immune systems—including cancer patients undergoing treatment, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly residents, and young children—may face increased risk from waterborne infections. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their tap water consumption. The EPA/CDC guidelines for reducing Cryptosporidium and microbial contamination risks are available through the USEPA's Safe Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

YOUR WATER SOURCE: South Tahoe PUD maintains 14 active water wells and 4 standby wells serving over 13,000 homes and businesses. All water is extracted from underground aquifers—no water comes from Lake Tahoe or other surface sources. The District's Groundwater Management Plan (adopted December 4, 2014) is available through their website or by contacting customer service.

WATER QUALITY OVERVIEW: Municipal water, including bottled varieties, naturally contains small amounts of various substances. While contaminant presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk, regular testing ensures safety. Water sources include groundwater from aquifers that dissolve minerals as water travels through soil and rock formations. Contaminants may originate from:

• Microbial sources (sewage facilities, septic systems, livestock operations)
• Inorganic materials (naturally occurring minerals, urban runoff)
• Agricultural chemicals (pesticides, herbicides)
• Industrial processes and petroleum production

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: South Tahoe Public Utility District welcomes public participation in water quality policy decisions. For detailed scientific information, contact the District Laboratory at 530-544-6474 ext. 6231 or visit their website. The District is governed by an elected five-member Board of Directors with public meetings held on the first and third Thursday monthly at 2 p.m. at the Customer Service Center.

RADON MONITORING: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes through foundation cracks or be released from tap water during showers and other household activities. Compared to soil entry, water-released radon typically represents a smaller portion of indoor radon. Prolonged radon exposure is associated with lung cancer risk through inhalation, while ingestion may increase stomach cancer risk. Home testing is relatively inexpensive, and mitigation systems are available if levels exceed 4 picocuries per liter. For more information, contact your state radon program or the EPA Radon Hotline (800-SOS-RADON).

SOURCE WATER PROTECTION: The District maintains an ongoing groundwater source development program identifying potential well locations. The substantial Sierra snowpack and Lake Tahoe provide significant aquifer recharge capacity, which the District works diligently to protect as a precious natural resource. Water quality protection measures ensure safe, reliable service for current and future generations.

.. ...