Ventura Water Department

All water sources, including bottled water, may contain at least small amounts of various contaminants. The presence of these substances doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk, though it's important to stay informed. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, residents can contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

Water sources in our community include rivers, lakes, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or through ground layers, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, while also picking up substances from animal presence and 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 including salts and metals occurring naturally or resulting from urban runoff, industrial discharge, oil and gas production, or agricultural practices
• Pesticides and herbicides from various sources including agriculture, stormwater runoff, and residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, and municipal waste systems
• Radioactive contaminants that occur naturally or result from oil/gas production and mining activities

Elevated lead levels can cause serious health concerns, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in tap water primarily comes from materials associated with service lines and home plumbing. While Ventura Water is responsible for delivering quality water, we cannot control materials used in plumbing components. If your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30-120 seconds before using water for drinking or cooking. If concerned, you may have your water tested. Information about lead in water is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/lead.

The EPA and State Water Resources Control Board establish regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safety. Some individuals may be particularly vulnerable to contaminants, including those with compromised immune systems, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly individuals, and infants. These residents should seek medical advice about their water consumption.

Ventura Water conducted a Resource Water Assessment in 2013 for all drinking water sources serving our system. These sources may be vulnerable to activities including gas stations, auto repair shops, sewer collection systems, and metal manufacturing. Contaminants associated with these activities have not been detected in our water supply. Assessment details are available at the SWRCB, DDW Santa Barbara District Office at 1180 Eugenia Place, Box 200, Carpinteria, CA 93013, or by calling (805) 566-1326.

1. How often is my water tested?
2. What causes water hardness in Ventura?
3. How can I report water quality concerns?
4. Are there water restrictions currently in place?
5. How can I reduce contaminant exposure in my home?