Thomaston

The sources of tap water and bottled water include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land surfaces or through ground layers, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive materials, while also potentially collecting substances from animal presence or human activity.

Potential contaminants in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants such as viruses and bacteria from sewage facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals occurring naturally or resulting from urban runoff, industrial discharge, oil and gas production, mining, or farming
• Agricultural chemicals including pesticides and herbicides from various sources
• Organic chemical contaminants including synthetic and volatile compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive substances that can be naturally occurring or result from resource extraction activities

To ensure public safety, the EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. The City of Thomaston's treatment processes are designed to reduce these substances to levels well below health concern thresholds. Similarly, FDA regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

1. How do I report a suspected leak or emergency? The City's Wastewater Treatment Plant responds to emergencies related to the wastewater system 24 hours a day. For wastewater emergencies or suspected leaks, contact the Wastewater Plant immediately at (989)837-3500.
2. My sewer is backed up. Can someone from the City Wastewater Department help? If experiencing a backup and unsure whether the issue is in your home system or the City's sanitary sewer system, call the Wastewater Treatment Plant at 989-837-3500 to report the problem immediately. The plant is staffed 24/7, with response times typically under 45 minutes. City staff will examine the municipal sewer in your area to determine if assistance is possible. If they cannot help, consider contacting a professional sewer cleaner or plumber.
3. Is the City responsible for sewer maintenance from my residence or building? No. Property owners are responsible for any sewer issues within the sanitary system from inside the home to the connection point with the City's system, typically located in the street or yard area. The City maintains the collection system running throughout the municipality, consisting of "mains" up to 48 inches in diameter, compared to the 4-6 inch residential/building pipes (laterals).
4. Can you recommend a sewer cleaner or plumber? City staff cannot recommend private companies. When seeking quality service, consider asking about: service costs, work guarantees, and guarantee duration.
5. What causes sewer backups? Blockages occur for various reasons, commonly including tree roots, grease buildup, and items improperly disposed of through drains (like toys, pencils, or other objects).
6. How can I prevent and/or resolve sewer backup problems? Avoid disposing of grease and inappropriate items down drains. For existing blockages, contact a professional. Tree roots frequently cause problems in older clay pipe systems installed before the 1980s. While professionals typically handle these issues with specialized equipment like root cutters, DIY enthusiasts can rent such equipment locally.
7. What other situations might warrant contacting the Wastewater Treatment Plant? Contact them regarding: sewage backups, basement sewer odors, outdoor air odors, flusher truck operations in your area, treatment plant tour inquiries, or street flooding during rainfall.
8. Does the City have a recreational vehicle waste disposal site? Yes, located at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (2125 Austin St). City residents may dispose of RV waste free of charge weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and weekends/holidays 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
9. Does the plant accept domestic septage from certified commercial haulers? Yes, the Wastewater Treatment Plant serves as a receiving facility for domestic sewage from licensed haulers.
10. Can I pay my water/sewer bill online? Yes, using the Online Water/Sewer Bill Payment website with credit or checking card.