Ute Water Conservancy District

General Information

All tap water, including bottled water, can reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of certain impurities. The presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) or visit http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants.

Vulnerable Populations

Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. Immunocompromised persons such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants may face increased infection risks. These people should seek advice about water consumption from their healthcare providers.

Sources of Water

Tap water sources (both municipal and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and can pick up substances from animal presence or human activity.

Potential Contaminants

• Microbial contaminants: viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife.
• Inorganic contaminants: salts and metals occurring naturally or from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming.
• Pesticides and herbicides: from agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses.
• Radioactive contaminants: naturally occurring or resulting from oil/gas production and mining.
• Organic chemical contaminants: synthetic and volatile organics from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems.

Lead in Tap Water

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in your home's water may come from plumbing materials. If concerned, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. For testing information and exposure reduction steps, call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) or visit http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Source Water Assessment

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has provided a Source Water Assessment Report. For general information or to obtain a copy, visit www.colorado.gov/cdphe/ccr under "Guidance: Source Water Assessment Reports." Search using 0139791, UTOMHUS WCD, or contact Benjamin Hoffman at 970-464-5563.

The CDC provides guidance on water safety, including information about waterborne diseases, prevention measures, and testing recommendations. Their resources help communities understand and address potential health risks associated with municipal water supplies.