Drinking Water Safety and Protection(and the Virginia Master Well Owner Network)

Erin James Ling, M.S.

Virginia Tech

Biological Systems Engineering

Virginia Cooperative Extension

Photo credit: Va Department of Health Office of Drinking Water

Where does your water come from?Where does your water come from?

Public or private supply? Bottled?Groundwater? Surface water? Both?Who manages your water system and water

quality?Is there a source water protection plan in

place for your water supply?What do you know about your water quality?

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drinking

Today’s PresentationToday’s Presentation

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• Public vs. Private Water Supplies

• Drinking Water Regulations

• Source Water Protection

• How to care for private water systems• Well location, protection, and construction

• Well maintenance and care

• Water testing – What’s in your water?

• Dealing with water problems

• Virginia Household Water Quality Program

• Virginia Master Well Owner Network

Public vs. Private Water SuppliesPublic vs. Private Water SuppliesPUBLIC SYSTEMS: Community water systems may

be run by local government, PSA, HOA or private company

Considered public system if serving more than 15 service connections/25 people more than 60 days of the year

Non-community systems:◦ Transient (e.g. campground)

◦ Non-transient (e.g. school or restaurant)

Regulated under Safe Drinking Water Act

PRIVATE SYSTEMS: Wells are considered private if

they serve fewer than 25 people Water well construction,

location and application regulations vary from state to state (monitoring generally NOT required)

Owner is responsible for maintenance, routine water testing, dealing with problems

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Public vs. Private Supplies in VaPublic vs. Private Supplies in Va

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PUBLIC SYSTEMS 38 of Virginia’s 95 counties

completely reliant on groundwater; 55 counties draw more than half of supply from groundwater

Of Virginia’s 2,900 public supplies, more than 2,300 rely on groundwater; many are small and remote with no alternative to groundwater

80% of Virginia’s population relied on public water supplies in 2008

Monitoring of water quality required at the treatment plant; lead and copper levels must be monitored from tap water samples throughout community

PRIVATE SYSTEMS Majority of households in 60 of

Virginia’s 95 counties rely on private water supply systems

(> 1,500,000 households) In 52 counties, the number of

households using private wells is increasing faster than the number connecting to public systems

Homeowners relying on private water supplies: Are responsible for all aspects of water

system management

Often lack knowledge and resources to effectively manage

Usually don’t worry about maintenance until problems arise

Safe Drinking Water ActSafe Drinking Water Act Passed by Congress in 1974 to protect public health by

regulating the nation’s public water supply Authorized EPA to set health-based drinking water standards to

protect against natural and man-made contaminants Original focus on treatment to create safe water; 1996

amendments included◦ Source water protection efforts including surface water systems

◦ Evaluation of susceptibility to contamination

◦ Operator training

◦ Funding for water system improvements

◦ Increased public information

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EPA Drinking Water StandardsEPA Drinking Water StandardsPrimary Standards• Also called Maximum

Contaminant Level (MCL)

• Cause health problems

• Enforced for public systems

• 80+ contaminants, includingo Nitrateo Leado Coliform bacteriao Most organic chemicals and

pesticides

Secondary Standards Also called SMCL or RMCL Cause aesthetic problems:

o Stainingo Tasteo Odor

Can naturally occur in ground water

States can choose to enforce

About 15, including:o Iron o pH

7http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/index.html

Consumer Confidence ReportsConsumer Confidence Reports

SDWA requires all community water systems to provide annual reports about the water they distribute

8From Town of Blacksburg 2008 Report

Virginia Drinking Water RegsVirginia Drinking Water Regs• Virginia maintains “primacy” to regulate public

drinking water supplies• Virginia Water Control Law (1992) / Virginia Water Control Board

• Virginia Waterworks Regulations (1995)

Virginia Department of Health Office of Drinking Water◦ Monitors drinking water quality

◦ Provides technical assistance

◦ Finances improvements and seeks funding

◦ Enforces drinking water regulations for Virginia Public Water Supply Law and Safe Drinking Water Act

◦ Central office and 6 field offices

◦ Source Water Assessment Program (required by SDWA)

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Virginia Drinking Water RegsVirginia Drinking Water Regs• Virginia maintains “primacy” to regulate public

drinking water supplies• Virginia Water Control Law (1992) / Virginia Water Control Board

• Virginia Waterworks Regulations (1995)

Virginia Department of Health Office of Drinking Water

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Source Water ProtectionSource Water ProtectionBasic concepts apply to public and private sources;

consider interaction between the twoGroundwater systems: Wellhead Protection

◦ Understand of groundwater flow to determine recharge areas; complex in Virginia due to geology

• Surface water systems: Watershed ProtectionThree basic steps:

1.Delineate assessment boundaries of a drinking water source

2.Perform inventory of land use activities

3.Determine relative susceptibility of the drinking water source to

these activities; may include contingency plans or conservation measures to ensure adequate supply

Community involvement essential for success

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Land use-related Contaminant Land use-related Contaminant SourcesSources

Common Land use-related ContaminantsCommon Land use-related Contaminants

MiningIronManganesepHSedimentChemicals

AgricultureNutrientsBacteriaPesticidesHerbicidesSediment

Industry or LandfillHydrocarbonsVOC’s

ResidentialDevelopmentBacteriaNutrientsSedimentPesticidesHerbicidesChemicalsOil

RoadsChlorides

Travel-time exampleTravel-time example

http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/pesticidesgw.html

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Contaminant Source Proximity – Contaminant Source Proximity – How close is too close? How close is too close?

Be concerned about land uses and potential contaminate sources visible from home

In situations where groundwater travel-times are shorter, activities further away may impact water quality

◦ Fractured bedrock

◦ Limestone geology (karst)

◦ Gravel aquifers that transmit water easily

How does water move to a well?How does water move to a well?(Bedrock/drilled well)(Bedrock/drilled well)

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In this part of Virginia, groundwater moves through fractures, or cracks in the bedrock

Water can come from many different directions, depths, and sources into one well

It can take water hours, days, or years to move through bedrock

Well casing extends through loose “overburden” and into the bedrock, where an “open” borehole continues underground

Water can come from any fractures that intersect the open borehole

How does water move to a well? How does water move to a well? (Shallow/bored well) (Shallow/bored well)

In the Virginia coastal plain, shallow wells drilled in sandy soils are common

Because of shorter travel time, water is more susceptible to contamination

Well casing extends to bottom of well to below saturated zone

Well screen filters sediment from water

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Proper private well Proper private well locationlocationWell should be at least:

◦ 5 feet from property boundary

◦ 10 feet from building foundation (50 feet if termite treated)

◦ 50 feet from road

◦ 50 feet from sewers and septic tanks

◦ 100 feet from pastures, on-lot sewage system drainfields, cesspools or barnyards

Upslope from potential contaminationNot in an area that receives runoff

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Proper private well constructionProper private well constructionContract a licensed driller:

◦ Valid Class A, B or C contractor license with WWP (Water Well and Pump) classification

Well casing ◦ Minimum of 20’ for bored, 50 – 100’ deep

for drilled, depending on class of well

◦ Extends 12” above ground

Grouting to a minimum of 20’Sanitary well cap or sealed concrete cover Ground slopes away from well

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The Finished Product – Drilled WellThe Finished Product – Drilled Well

20http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/environment/06-117.htm

The Finished Product – Bored WellThe Finished Product – Bored Well

21http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/environment/06-117.htm

Private Well Maintenance TipsPrivate Well Maintenance Tips

Do not use fertilizers, pesticides, oil, or paint around well

Keep area around well clean and accessibleKeep careful records

◦ original contract, water test results and any maintenance or repair information

Every year:◦ Conduct thorough visual inspection of well

◦ Check cap for cracks, wear and tear, tightness

Every 10 years have well inspected by a qualified professional (with WWP classification)

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Private Water Supply RegulationsPrivate Water Supply Regulations

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• Virginia Private Well Regso Specify application, inspection and

construction requirementso No requirements for maintenance or

water testing after construction of well – responsibility of the owner!

• EPA National Drinking Water Standards

o Apply to PUBLIC systemso Primary (health) and Secondary

(nuisance)o Can be used as guidance for

private systems to know “how much is too much”

Testing water qualityTesting water qualityWhy test?

◦ Protect family’s health and safety

◦ Many contaminants undetectable by human senses

◦ Preventive measures often more effective and less expensive

◦ Legal protection

When to test?◦ Routine tests every 1-3 years

◦ Pregnant woman or infant in the home

◦ Recurring gastrointestinal illness

◦ Change in taste, appearance, odor of water

◦ Any services or repairs are done

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What should I test for?What should I test for?Public and private water supply users should

consider testing for metalsPrivate supply users:

◦ Every year test for coliform bacteria Indicates possible contamination from human or animal waste

◦ Every three years test: pH (secondary std: 6.5 – 8.5) Total Dissolved Solids (TDS; secondary std 500 mg/L) Other contaminants based on local land uses and water condition

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ResidentialDevelopmentBacteriaNitratesSedimentLawn Chemicals

How do I test my water?How do I test my water?Participate in a VAHWQP drinking water clinic

(private water supply users)Choose a certified laboratory

◦ List available at http://www.vdh.state.va.us/DrinkingWater/laboratories/

Use containers provided and follow directions◦ Sample bottles often contain fixers- do not rinse

◦ Be aware of time requirements to get samples to lab

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Understanding test resultsUnderstanding test resultsMost results provided as concentrations:

◦ mg/L (milligrams per liter) ≈ ppm (parts per million)

◦ µg/L = (micrograms per liter) ≈ ppb (parts per billion)

Other units unique to test

◦ Bacteria

◦ Radon, hardness, pH

Compare to EPA standards: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/index.html

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1 ppm = about 4 drops in a 55 gallon barrel!

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Sources of contamination or issues of concern

pH/corrosivity hardness

nitratefluoride

iron

manganesesulfate

chloride

sodium

Surface water contamination: nitrate, bacteria

Some contaminants are found in groundwater naturally, and some are there due human

activities.

well

TDS

Source may be plumbing materials or existing water treatment device:sodiumcopperleadbacteria

Water moves via fractures or cracks in bedrock

pH

Where the condition or contaminant comes from

affects how we can deal with it!

Options for problem waterOptions for problem water

1. If possible, control the source of pollution◦ Divert runoff from well, maintain septic system

2. Improve maintenance of water system◦ Install sanitary well cap, slope the ground

3. Treat the water to reduce contaminant concentration◦ Match the treatment option to the pollutant

◦ Consult a professional

4.Develop a new source of water◦ Deeper well, develop spring, connect to

public water

29http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/septic-tank-cleaning-1.jpg, http://www.shipewelldrilling.com/Pictures/well_drilling_rig.jpg, http://www.clearflow.ca/REVERSE_OSMOSIS2.jpg

Home Treatment ConsiderationsHome Treatment ConsiderationsBe sure to explore ALL of your optionsAlways have water tested by a certified labBe aware of dishonest businesses – look for NSF

(National Sanitation Foundation) and WQA (Water Quality Association) certifications, consult BBB

If it sounds too good to be true…it probably is!Point of Use (POU) vs. Point of Entry (POE)Weigh benefits and limitations of device◦ Cost

◦ Maintenance

◦ Warranty

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What is the VAHWQP?What is the VAHWQP?

Established in 1989County-based Drinking Water Clinics

Coordinated with local Extension Agents Kickoff Meeting Homeowners collect sample; samples analyzed at VT lab Interpretation Meeting: test results and advice for dealing with

water problems provided

• The Virginia Master Well Owner Network

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Virginia Master Well Owner Network Virginia Master Well Owner Network (VAMWON) (VAMWON)

Includes extension agents and volunteersTraining workshops across VA•Groundwater hydrology•Proper well location, construction and maintenance•Land use impacts and wellhead protection•Water testing and interpretation•Solving water problems•Education and outreach ideas•Water conservation

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VAMWON volunteer outreach:Fairs and home showsSpeak to church or civic groups

One-on-one conversations with neighbors and friends

Write an article for local paperHelp with drinking water clinic

VAMWON Volunteer PolicyVAMWON Volunteer PolicyQualifications:

◦ Attend VAMWON training and achieve 80% on post-test

◦ Agree to a goal of making 100 educational contacts annually

◦ Communicate effectively and diplomatically

◦ Not work or own a business affiliated with private water systems

◦ Option to recertify after two years

Guidelines:◦ Unpaid, volunteer work only

◦ Provide general educational information

◦ Do not give professional advice or make specific recommendations

◦ Refer specific questions to qualified professional

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VAMWON ResponsibilitiesVAMWON ResponsibilitiesVAMWON Agents

◦ Conduct county-based drinking water clinics

◦ Educate local private water system owners

VAMWON Volunteers◦ Assist VAMWON agents with drinking water clinics

◦ Outreach to church, service, and civic organizations

◦ Staff VAMWON booth at fairs, clinics, ag and home shows

◦ Maintain water system as a good practices demonstration site

◦ Contribute to VAHWQP newsletter and website

◦ Assist with evaluating program impacts

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• Develop relationships through collaborative education and outreach• Continuing VAMWON training opportunities• Share innovative education delivery methods

• Agents conduct county-based drinking water clinics• Agents better informed to address water quality concerns

Building Capacity through VAMWON

Sustaining relationships: building capacity to improve water quality

• Community-based outreach• Peer-to-peer education

Virginia Master Well OwnerVolunteers

Virginia Master Well OwnerVCE Agents

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Private Water System Owners

Interested in learning more?Interested in learning more?

Come to a drinking water clinicJoin Virginia Master Well Owner Network!

◦ Learn more about your own water system and how to protect your water quality and share info with others

◦ Receive 7 hours MG continuing education credits ◦ Apply today at: www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu or call Erin ◦ At VAMWON training workshop:

Free water conservation devices for home and garden Resource binder Reduced cost of sample analysis (when a drinking water clinic

is held in your county) 36

Upcoming Events in 2010Upcoming Events in 2010

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= 2010 Agt VAMWON workshop

= 2010 Vol VAMWON workshop

= 2010 drinking water clinic

41 VAMWON agents, 32 volunteers trained so farVAMWON Training Workshops

◦ Volunteer: Aug 28 (Giles Co) and Oct 30 (Charlottesville)

◦ VCE Agent: Oct 29-30 (Charlottesville)

Drinking Water Clinics ◦ 10 counties scheduled for 2010

◦ 1200 participants during 2009

VAMWON Training WorkshopVAMWON Training Workshop

August 28, 2010 9 am – 4 pm

Giles County

OR

October 30, 2010 9 am – 4 pm

Charlottesville

Visit www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu

Or contact Erin Ling

540-231-9058 / wellwater@vt.edu

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Help Others!

Free

Resource

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Lunch!

Learn

more

about

your

water!

Apply

today!

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Erin James LingVirginia Household Water Quality Program

Virginia Master Well Owner Network

Website: www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu

Email: wellwater@vt.edu

Ph: 540-231-9058

ResourcesResources Private Water Supply Protection in VA: www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu

Office of Drinking Water Source Water Protection: http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/drinkingwater/source/swpp.htm

Virginia Department of Health: www.vdh.state.va.us

EPA SafeWater/Drinking Water Regulations: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/index.html

Virginia Rural Water Association: http://vrwa.org/index.php

Virginia Cooperative Extension Offices: www.ext.vt.edu

National Groundwater Association Well Owner: http://www.wellowner.org/

National Sanitation Foundation: www.nsf.org

Water Quality Association: www.wqa.org

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Conserve water!Conserve water!

Protect your water quantity and qualityReduce the load to septic or sewer

systemSave $$$$Save ENERGY used to move or heat

waterProtect resources for future generationsLittle effort produces significant results

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Where is water used in the home?Where is water used in the home?69-100 gallons/person/day69-100 gallons/person/day

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Ways to conserve INDOORSWays to conserve INDOORS

Toilets◦ Check for leaks by putting food coloring in tank◦ Reduce number of flushes per day

1 less flush per person/day in US would save enough water to create a lake one sq. mile 4 ft deep every day!

◦ Toilets made before 1993 3-8 gallons per flush; newer toilets use 1.6 gpf

◦ Improved toilets can save a family 14,000-17,000 gallons per year

◦ Install toilet tummy or 2 liter bottles in tankTurn off water when brushing teeth or

shaving!43

Ways to conserve INDOORSWays to conserve INDOORSShower and Bath

◦ Reduce time spent in shower – get a timer!◦ Install low-flow shower head – 2.5 gpm or less◦ Bathe small kids together ◦ Reconsider baths – 50 or more gallons!◦ Consider collecting water for plants, etc.

Houseplants◦ Collect water from washing produce, cooking, or

cleaning fish tank to water plants◦ Put discarded ice cubes in a plant rather

than the sink

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Ways to conserve INDOORSWays to conserve INDOORS

Kitchen◦ Dishwashers

New ones work! Don’t pre-wash dishes Run only when full

◦ Faucets Fix Leaks! One drip per second 2,700 gal/year Install low-flow faucet aerators Turn it off when not in use (washing dishes)

◦ Consider composting rather than garbage disposal◦ Use as little water as possible when cooking

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Ways to conserve INDOORSWays to conserve INDOORSLaundry

◦Consider purchasing energy efficient model (23 gallons per load compared to 40)

◦Use cold setting whenever possible◦Pre-treat stains to avoid re-washing◦Only wash full loads, or adjust load size

setting

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Ways to conserve OUTSIDEWays to conserve OUTSIDEXeriscape – landscape in ways that do not

require irrigation◦ Plant species appropriate to your area (native), in

practical areas of the yard◦ Use mulch, manure and compost◦ Group plants by water need ◦ If watering is necessary, do so in the morning

hours◦ Harvest rainwater using a cistern

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Ways to conserve OUTSIDEWays to conserve OUTSIDECheck for leaks – hoses, etc.Use the broom instead of hose to cleanInstall fewer impermeable surfacesTake the car to a carwash that recycles

waterInstall backflow protector on all outdoor

faucets and use backflow practices

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Achieving Water ConservationAchieving Water Conservation

Changes in Habits◦Little or no additional cost ◦Quick effect◦Often temporary

Water saving appliances or fixtures◦Can be expensive◦Most are easily installed◦Very effective◦Often permanent

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Effect of Water Conservation Effect of Water Conservation

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0

5

10

15

20

25

Toilet Washer Shower Faucets Dishwasher

Without Conservation

With Conservation

Normal use = 68 gallons per day per personConservation use = 38 gallons per day per person

Coliform BacteriaColiform BacteriaCannot be smelled, tasted or seenColiform bacteria is an indicator

organism – means disease-causing bacteria may be present

Public standard is 0 colony forming units(cfu)/100 mL (ABSENT)

If present, test for fecal coliform or E. coli presence – indicator that sewage or animal waste is present.

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If Coliform Bacteria are PRESENTIf Coliform Bacteria are PRESENTDon’t panic!Recommend RETEST

◦ To use VT lab, cost is $9 + overnight shipping Samples MUST be sent overnight for test to work

Contact Hope White 540-231-4334 to have a kit mailed

◦ To use a local certified lab – email ejames@vt.edu for a list

Examine well or spring Consider shock chlorinationLong term treatment: ozonation, UV light,

continuous chlorination

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If If E. Coli E. Coli Bacteria are PRESENTBacteria are PRESENT

Take immediate steps to addressShock chlorinateRetest waterIn the meantime, consider boiling or use

another source of water for drinking or cooking

Check for potential contamination sourcesConsider long-term treatment options: UV

light, ozonation, continuous disinfection

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Iron and ManganeseIron and Manganese Nuisance - not health concern SMCL: Iron = 0.3 mg/L

Manganese = 0.05 mg/L Red-brown/black staining, particles,

metallic taste Treatment depends on type/form of iron

◦ Ferrous: water initially clear orange-brown or black solid particles

◦ Ferric: solid particles apparent immediately, or water has a tint

◦ Iron bacteria: not a health concern; feed on Fe and Mn, forming red-brown or black-brown slime

Treatment: water softener, aeration and filtration, ozonation, distillation

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HardnessHardness

Hardness Rating Grains per Gallon mg/L

Soft Less than 1.0 Less than 17.1

Slightly Hard 1.0-3.5 17.1-60

Moderately Hard 3.5-7.0 60-120

Hard 7.0-10.5 120-180

Very Hard Over 10.5 Over 180

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Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium ions◦ Dissolved into water during contact with limestone,

other minerals

Not a health risk – nuisance◦ Decreased cleaning action of soaps, detergents

◦ Scale build-up in pipes and on appliances

◦ Reduced efficiency and lifespan of water heaters

No EPA standard for public systemsTreat using water softener

Conditions or nearby activities of concernConditions or nearby activities of concernConditions or Nearby Activities Test for:

Recurring gastro-intestinal illness Coliform bacteria

Household plumbing contains lead pH, lead, copper

Radon in indoor air Radon

Corrosion of pipes and plumbing Corrosivity, pH, lead

Nearby areas of intensive agriculture Nitrate, pesticides, coliform bacteria

Coal or other mining operations Metals, pH, corrosivity

Dump, junkyard or landfill VOCs, TDS, pH, sulfate, chloride, metals

Odor of gasoline or fuel oil VOCs

Objectionable taste or smell of water Hydrogen sulfide, corrosivity, metals

Stained plumbing fixtures or laundry Iron, copper, manganese

Salty taste Chloride, TDS, sodium

Scaly residues, soaps don’t lather Hardness

Rapid wear of water equipment pH, corrosivity

Water is cloudy, frothy or colored Colors, detergents

56Adapted from “Drinking Water for Household Wells”, EPA, 2002

General Water Quality IndicatorsGeneral Water Quality Indicators

Indicator Acceptable Limit

Indication

Coliform bacteria

< I coliform/100 ml

Possible bacterial or viral contamination from human or animal waste

pH 6.5 to 8.5 Important overall measure of water quality; pH can alter corrosivitiy and solubility of contaminants.Low pH: pitting of pipes and fixtures, metallic tasteHigh pH: water has slippery feel, soda taste

Total dissolved solids

500 mg/L Dissolved metals, like iron or manganese; hardness; salty, bitter taste or staining.

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Resources• Website• Newsletter• Water Quality Resource Expert Panel• Updated VCE water quality publications• VAHWQP Coordinator

o Needs assessment and scheduling of clinicso Targeted programming for underserved populationso Support for agents and volunteers

Opportunities for PARTNERSHIPS

• DEQ, VDH, VASWCD, EPA, ?• Expanded programming (septic, etc.)• Information sharing• Joint grant- writing opportunities• Continuing education for VAMWON

By 2010• 5,400 + water samples analyzed• 1,100+ underserved persons reached• 18+ drinking water clinics conducted• Establish capacity to continue providing drinking water clinics, education and outreach through VAMWON.

Revitalized!Revitalized!

Train: 70 agents and 240 volunteersBuild Capacity:• Agents conduct county drinking water clinics• Agents and volunteers make educational contacts• Establish relationships

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SAMPLE Test ReportSAMPLE Test ReportTest

Household Water Sample

Maximum or Recommended Level or Range

Iron (mg/L) 0.02 0.3

Manganese (mg/L) <0.001 0.05

Hardness (mg/L) 44.5 180

Sulfate (mg/L) 2.066 250

Chloride (mg/L) 30 250

Fluoride (mg/L) < 0.1 2.0

Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L) 102 500

pH 6.2** 6.5 to 8.5

Saturation Index -2.98 ** -1 to 1

Copper (mg/L) 0.04 1.0

Sodium (mg/L) 7.8 20

Nitrate-N (mg/L) 4 10

Total Coliform Bacteria PRESENT** ABSENT

E. Coli Bacteria ABSENT ABSENT59** measured value exceeds recommendation for household water

Corrosive and Scaling WaterCorrosive and Scaling Water Corrosive (aggressive) water

◦ Corrodes metal in plumbing, causing damage, pitting

◦ Leaching of copper or lead into drinking water is a health concern!

◦ EPA recommends drinking water be non-corrosive

◦ Treat using acid neutralizing filter (with calcite or calcite/corosex blend) or soda ash injection

Scaling water

◦ Contains high levels of minerals

◦ Forms scale on inside of pipes and appliances, lime deposits on shower heads and taps

◦ Can lead to clogging of pipes, reduces efficiency of water heaters and appliances

◦ Treat using water softener, if necessary60

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Corrosive Water: Metals of Corrosive Water: Metals of concernconcern Lead

◦ Many serious health effects, esp in children and infants Developmental, neurological, reproductive and renal

◦ EPA MCL is 0 µg/L with a health action level of 15 µg/L.

◦ Sources include: Pipes in older homes (pre-1930) Solder in homes built prior to 1986 “Lead-free” brass fixtures (<8%) – even in NEW homes!

Copper◦ High levels can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps; infants

and children particularly sensitive

◦ EPA MCL is 1.3 mg/L

◦ Nuisance effects noticeable at 1.0 mg/L

61http://www.gravitaexim.com/images/Lead-pipe.jpg

Nitrate (NONitrate (NO33-N)-N)

Serious health concern for infants

◦ Methemoglobinemia or “blue baby syndrome”

Nitrate becomes nitrite in digestive system, forms methemoglobin rather than

hemoglobin (does not carry oxygen)

EPA MCL 10 mg/L NO3-N (nitrate nitrogen) or 45 mg/L of NO3 (nitrate)

If levels approach 3-5 mg/L, use another source of water for infants under 6

months

Sources include fertilizer, animal manure, sewage

NO3 dissolves and moves easily through soil

Test in spring months; levels change over time

BOILING INCREASES concentration of nitrates!!!

Treatment: distillation, reverse osmosis, ion exchange

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Sodium and ChlorideSodium and Chloride Low levels occur naturally

Higher levels usually from man-made source

◦ Road salt storage or application

◦ Industrial waste

◦ Sewage, fertilizers or animal waste

◦ In coastal areas, salt water intrusion

Sodium: EPA MCL for people on low-sodium diets: 20 mg/L

Chloride: EPA SMCL of 250 mg/L

Higher levels may indicate contamination – test for bacteria or other contaminants

Salty taste; and may accelerate corrosion of pipes and water heaters

Treat using distillation, reverse osmosis, demineralization

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FluorideFluorideOccurs naturally in varying levels

◦ Naturally high levels of F in E. Virginia groundwater

Added to many public water systems for reduced dental caries and strong teeth and bones

Health concerns: ◦ Long term exposure: links to bone cancer

◦ Shorter term exposure: dental or skeletal fluorosis

EPA MCL 4.0 mg/L and SMCL 2.0 mg/LOptimum levels for public systems 0.8 - 1.2 mg/LLimited use for children up to 8 years

64http://www.willamettedental.com/en_us/ALL/patients/pps/retailproducts_prettysmile.gif; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_fluorosis

Hydrogen SulfideHydrogen Sulfide

Colorless gas; rotten egg smellNot regulated by EPA – people can detect low

levelsNaturally present in shale, sandstone, near coal or

oil fieldsSulfur-reducing bacteria produce (not a health risk)Treatment depends on concentration, so must testOnly noticeable in hot water?

◦ Bacteria could be thriving in your water heater

◦ Sulfates may be converted to H2S chemically in your water heater during a reaction with your magnesium corrosion control rod

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Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Water is a great solvent – dissolves many compounds

as it travels over and under ground TDS is a measure of all dissolved impurities < 2µm dia Natural sources: limestone, salt deposits, other minerals Man-made sources:

◦ Septic systems and sewage

◦ Run off from agricultural or urban land

◦ Road salt, industrial sources

General indicator of water quality; test at least every three years

EPA SMCL is 500 mg/L Treat using distillation or reverse osmosis

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Spring Management TipsSpring Management Tips

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Make sure spring box is sealed to prevent insects, animals, and surface water from entering

Fence livestock out of stream catchment area

Disinfect springs after construction and test annually for bacteria

Cistern Management TipsCistern Management Tips

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Make sure cistern is constructed properly to ensure it is the proper size to meet your water demands. A minimum of 5,000 gallons is recommended.

All cisterns require treatment. Most rely on rainwater that can be extremely corrosive to plumbing systems

Water should be disinfected before it is consumed