Truckee-Donner PUD, Main

Truckee Donner Public Utility District is proud to report that our water meets all State and Federal municipal water standards. This article provides a snapshot of water quality supplied to TDPUD customers during the 2017 calendar year.

Our water comes from 12 deep groundwater wells that supply the Truckee area. The groundwater aquifer benefits from natural filtration, protecting it from surface contamination and providing superior quality water. We conduct weekly testing for microbial quality to ensure safety.

Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. Those with compromised immune systems, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly individuals, and infants should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption. For guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbiological contaminants, contact the Safe Municipal Water Hotline at (800)426-4791.

Regarding lead in plumbing: Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. While TDPUD provides high-quality water, we cannot control materials used in household plumbing components. If water has been sitting for several hours, minimize potential lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Our last lead sampling was conducted in 2016, with all sites testing below the Federal action level.

Due to our deep well water sources, microorganisms like Cryptosporidium and Giardia are extremely unlikely to be present in our water supply. These organisms, if ingested, can cause gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea and fever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a Certificate of Operation and a Permit for water utilities?
A: A Certificate of Operation is a license allowing operation of a water system after passing safety inspections, while a Permit is required for installing new equipment or making modifications to existing systems.

Q: How does the utility prioritize emergency response?
A: Calls are prioritized based on severity and public safety impact. Response times depend on the seriousness of the issue and available resources at the time.

Q: Why has the utility chosen groundwater as its primary source?
A: Studies conducted between 2003-2015 examined various water sources and technologies to address growing demand, improve regional mobility, and ensure sustainable supply. Groundwater was selected based on quality, reliability, and natural protection from surface contaminants.

Q: How can residents get involved in water conservation efforts?
A: The utility hosts various community events throughout the year, including Earth Day celebrations, family service days, dune restoration projects, coastal cleanups, and hazardous waste collection events. Check the "Upcoming Events" page on our website for volunteer opportunities.

Q: How will utility construction projects affect my neighborhood?
A: While contractors work to minimize disruption, neighborhood improvements necessarily involve some temporary inconvenience. The utility follows strict protocols to maintain safety, limit noise, protect property, and keep residents informed throughout construction projects.