What is potentially in the source water?

The following contaminants may be present in source water before treatment. Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations and wildlife.

Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, can be naturally-occurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining and farming. Pesticides and herbicides, may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses.

Radioactive contaminants, can be naturally- occurring or can be the result of oil and gas production, and mining activities. Organic chemical contaminants, include synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, that are by-products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems.

Is tap water safe for everyone to drink?

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. Contact EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline for more information about contaminants and potential health
effects; and EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants: 1-800-426-4791.

What is being done to ensure that my tap water is safe to drink?

In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations that limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water that must provide the same protection for public health.


How can I learn more about water issues?

You are welcome to attend the Board of Water Commissioners meetings held at the Sandwich Water District Office, 72 Tupper Road, Sandwich, MA. The Board meetings are scheduled for the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. and the Annual Water District Meeting is scheduled for the third Monday in May.