A recent article in The Guardian on water quality raised eyebrows and probably unnerved some readers.

The article claimed the United States is “in a water crisis beyond anything you can imagine” and cited “pollution and toxins everywhere, stemming from the hazardous wastes of industry and agriculture.”

When it comes to one's tap water, there are some people who believe a contaminant in any amount makes the water not safe. We can assure you, as a water consumer, that there are many protections in place that should give you confidence when pouring yourself or your family a glass of tap water.

American water utilities keep our health and wellbeing a top priority. Drinking water providers stay ahead of potential contaminants by performing many tests at different locations throughout their delivery systems to ensure safe drinking water. The Safe Drinking Water Act exists to reduce the risk of many contaminants, so the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency must look at both health concerns and nationwide occurrence as it assesses each candidate for regulation. 

Protecting water at its source is one of the best ways to keep our water clean. AWWA and the USDA Forest Service, published a brochure that provides an overview and suggests ways water utilities can partner with the Forest Service to protect source water. The partnership stems from close to 20% of the U.S. population’s water supply comes from National Forest System lands. Partnerships between utilities and the Forest Service can help ensure water quality and quantity for customers.

If you have doubts about your water quality, consider reaching out to your drinking water utility and learn about the source and treatment of your drinking water. Request your utility’s consumer confidence report to learn about the steps and safeguards in place to protect you and your family’s health and wellbeing.