Western Virginia Water Authority

To ensure tap water remains safe to consume, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes regulations limiting the concentration of specific contaminants in public water systems. Similarly, Food and Drug Administration regulations set limits for contaminants in bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

All municipal water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of certain contaminants. However, the presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. When establishing standards, the EPA typically assumes an average adult consumes 2 liters of water daily over a 70-year lifespan. For many contaminants, EPA sets maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) at points that cause minimal adverse health effects, while for others, the risk might range from one-in-ten-thousand to one-in-a-million.

The Western Virginia Water Authority continuously monitors water supplies for various contaminants to meet all regulatory requirements. All regulated substances undergo annual testing, except lead and copper (tested every three years), synthetic organic compounds (SOCs), and radiological contaminants (tested every six to eight years). The data for trihalomethanes (TTHMs) and haloacetic acids (HAA5s) represent running annual averages.

Cryptosporidium & Giardia

These microscopic organisms can cause fever, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested. They originate from human and animal waste and are eliminated through water filtration and disinfection. Although not regulated federally or by the state, the Water Authority tests for these organisms. Giardia was detected in untreated water at Falling Creek (0.2 cysts per liter in March 2016 and 8 cysts per liter in June 2017). Cryptosporidium appeared in untreated water at Carvins Cove (0.1 cysts per liter in January and February 2016).

Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than others. Those with compromised immune systems, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, the elderly, and infants may face increased infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption. Guidelines for reducing infection risks are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Lead & Copper Testing

Quality water begins at the source. The Western Virginia Water Authority closely monitors water chemistry, treatment processes, and pipe materials throughout the distribution system, especially regarding lead and copper. While copper is nutritionally essential, high levels can cause gastrointestinal issues. Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children.

Lead in municipal water primarily relates to service line materials and home plumbing. The Authority maintains over 1500 miles of pipes up to customers' water meters, typically made of cast iron, ductile iron, or PVC. No lead pipes are known to exist in our distribution system, though older homes may have lead plumbing or lead solder. We treat water with corrosion control or pH adjustment to protect both our distribution system and customers' home plumbing.

When water sits in pipes for several hours, you can minimize potential lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes until it becomes cold or reaches a steady temperature before using it for drinking or cooking. If concerned about lead, consider having your water tested. For more information, contact the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or visit http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

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