Town of Ocean City

We're pleased to present our annual water quality report for Ocean City residents. As in previous years, we remain dedicated to delivering the highest quality water possible. Our team works diligently to meet new regulatory challenges, protect water resources, promote conservation, and engage with our community while meeting all our customers' needs. Thank you for allowing us to serve you and your family. We value your feedback on this report – informed customers are our greatest allies.

Community Participation
Council meetings typically occur on the 1st and 3rd Mondays monthly at 6 p.m. Work sessions usually happen at noon on Wednesdays before council meetings. Both are held in the council chambers at City Hall (Third Street and Baltimore Avenue). Citizens wishing to attend should call (410) 289-8221 to confirm meeting details.

Important Health Information
Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. People with compromised immune systems – including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, the elderly, and infants – may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek guidance about municipal water from healthcare providers. Guidelines from the EPA/CDC on reducing Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminant infection risks are available via the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

Water Safety Standards
The EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant amounts in public water systems, while FDA regulations set similar limits for bottled water. All water sources may reasonably contain some contaminants, though their presence doesn't necessarily indicate health risks. Water sources (tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells that naturally collect minerals and sometimes radioactive materials or substances from animal or human activities.

Potential Contaminant Sources Include:

• Microbial Contaminants: viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, or wildlife
• Inorganic Contaminants: naturally occurring or human-activity derived salts and metals from urban runoff, industrial/domestic wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and Herbicides: from agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential usage
• Organic Chemical Contaminants: industrial process byproducts, petroleum production derivatives, gas stations, urban runoff, or septic systems
• Radioactive Contaminants: naturally occurring or resulting from oil/gas production and mining

For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

Water Source Information
Ocean City Water Department customers benefit from abundant water supplies drawn from two underground aquifers. Our system includes 22 wells ranging from 200 to over 400 feet in depth.

Water Storage Guidelines
Disinfectants in municipal water eventually dissipate even in sealed containers. If bacteria were present in a container before filling with tap water, they may multiply once disinfectant levels drop. Some experts suggest replacing stored water after approximately six months. Refrigeration can help inhibit bacterial growth.

Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Products (PPCPs)
Proper disposal of medications and personal care items is crucial for protecting our water supply. Recent studies show increasing concern about PPCPs entering water supplies. These include prescription/OTC medications and consumer products like cosmetics, fragrances, and cleaning supplies. From 2006-2010, U.S. prescriptions increased 12% to 3.7 billion, while OTC purchases remained around 3.3 billion. Many of these products don't biodegrade and persist environmentally. The most effective water protection starts at the source – never flush unused medications. Check if your pharmacy accepts returns, contact local health departments about proper disposal methods, or visit https://goo.gl/aZPgeB to locate disposal sites.

Professional Water Treatment
Delivering quality municipal water involves complex processes beyond simple distribution. Water treatment professionals must be licensed and undergo extensive training. These specialists understand mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics. Their responsibilities include equipment operation and maintenance, testing and monitoring, chemistry management, regulatory compliance, and community service.

Source Water Assessment
The Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) completed a Source Water Assessment for Ocean City that included delineating the water contribution area and identifying potential contamination sources. After reviewing water quality data, potential contamination sources, aquifer characteristics, and well integrity, they determined Ocean City's water supply is protected from surface contaminants by natural geological features.

1. How often is Ocean City's municipal water tested?
   The water undergoes daily operational testing plus comprehensive regulatory testing according to EPA schedules.
2. What causes water hardness in Ocean City?
   The groundwater source naturally contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that contribute to hardness.
3. Should I use a water filter in Ocean City?
   While the municipal water meets safety standards, home filtration can address aesthetic preferences and provide additional contaminant reduction.
4. How do I report water quality concerns?
   Contact the utility directly at 800-626-2326 to report unusual taste, odor, or appearance.
5. Are there lead pipes in Ocean City's water system?
   The municipality maintains records of service line materials and can provide information about specific areas upon request.