Virginia-American Water Company

Virginia American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is one of the largest investor-owned water utilities in the state, providing high-quality water services to approximately 320,000 residents. With roots dating back to 1886, American Water stands as the most geographically diverse publicly-traded water utility company in the United States.

The company employs over 6,700 dedicated professionals who deliver regulated and market-based water and wastewater services to an estimated 15 million people across 47 states and Ontario, Canada. Additional information can be found at amwater.com.

For comprehensive information on water resources, conservation efforts, and public health concerns, visit the U.S. EPA Office of Water (www.EPA.gov/safewater) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (www.CDC.gov). Virginia residents can also access state-specific water information through the Virginia Department of Health (www.vdh.va.gov) and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (www.deq.state.va.us) websites.

Source Water and Treatment:
Your tap water comes from groundwater sources. Our well draws from the Potomac aquifer. Treatment consists of chlorination for disinfection and prevention of bacterial growth in the distribution system. The Virginia Department of Health has evaluated the susceptibility of our water supply to contamination and determined that our well has a relatively low susceptibility to contaminants.

Water Quality: What You Can Do
Everyone can help improve source water health and the Chesapeake Bay watershed:

• Limit use of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers
• Clean up after pets to prevent waste runoff
• Dispose of pharmaceuticals properly—not down toilets
• Responsibly dispose of chemicals and hazardous waste
• Keep boats clean to prevent water contamination
• Support watershed nutrient reduction efforts

Lead Education Statement:
While we regularly test lead levels in your water, materials in your home plumbing may contribute to elevated lead levels. If present, elevated lead poses serious health risks, especially for pregnant women and young children. When water sits unused for several hours, you can minimize potential lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption. Virginia American Water remains in full compliance with lead-related regulations. For more information about lead in water, contact the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or visit www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

The CDC provides essential guidelines for ensuring safe household water use. Their recommendations include regular testing, proper filtration system maintenance, and steps to take if you suspect contamination. Hopewell residents should be particularly aware of potential health impacts from chemical compounds detected in regional water supplies.

CDC resources also cover special precautions for vulnerable populations like infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems who may need additional water treatment measures at home.