Tri County WCD

The Department of Natural Resources conducted a source water assessment to evaluate potential contamination risks to our water supply. This process involved mapping resource water areas for each well or surface intake, followed by an inventory of possible contaminants to assess risks.

Assessment maps and information sheets are available online at http://drinkingwater.missouri.edu/swipe/swipmaps/passed.htm. To access your specific water system maps, you'll need the State-assigned identification code listed at the top of this report. These materials provide a foundation for developing a comprehensive source water protection plan.

Why are contaminants present in my water?
All water, including bottled varieties, naturally contains some level of contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Potential contaminant sources include:

• Microbial contaminants from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals, which can occur naturally or result from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, or mining
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants that occur naturally or result from oil/gas production

The Department of Natural Resources establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safety. Similarly, the Department of Health sets standards for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

Regulatory compliance:
Our water system is regulated by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, which requires regular testing to verify water safety. Our system's identification number is MO1071079 for tracking test results. Last year's contaminant testing results appear in this report, with any violations explained in later sections.

Special precautions for vulnerable populations:
Some individuals may be more susceptible to water contaminants than the general population. Immunocompromised persons—such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or immune disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants—can be particularly vulnerable to infections. These individuals should seek advice from healthcare providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

1. What causes water hardness in Montrose County?
   Water hardness results from dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium that naturally occur in groundwater as it passes through limestone and other mineral deposits.
2. How does copper enter our water supply?
   Copper primarily enters tap water through corrosion of household plumbing systems, especially in homes with copper pipes and brass fixtures.
3. Are TTHMs in our water dangerous?
   Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) form when chlorine used for disinfection reacts with naturally occurring organic matter. Long-term exposure to elevated levels may increase health risks for some individuals.
4. How often is Tri County WCD water tested?
   The water undergoes regular testing according to EPA and state regulations, with different contaminants tested at varying frequencies from daily to annually.