2009 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report
Passamaquoddy Water District
Eastport, Maine
PWSID ME0090510
We’re pleased to present to you our Annual Drinking Water Quality Report, also known as the Consumer Confidence Report. This report, a requirement of the 1996 amendment to the Safe Drinking Water Act, is designed to inform you about the quality water and services we deliver to you every day. Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. We want you to understand the efforts we make to continually improve the water treatment process and protect our water resources. We are committed to ensuring the quality of your water.
WATER SOURCE
Our water is drawn from the Boyden Lake Stream in Perry. It is filtered and then treated with chlorine to protect against potential bacteriological contaminants and fluoridated to promote dental health. Treatment also includes coagulation and pH adjustment. We serve an approximate population of 1920 through 768 services connections.
SOURCE WATER ASSESSMENT
The Maine Drinking Water Program (DWP) has evaluated all public water supplies as part of the Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP). The assessments included geology, hydrology, land uses, water testing information and the extent of land ownership or protection by local ordinance to see how likely our drinking water source is to being contaminated by human activities in the future. Assessment results are available at public water suppliers, town offices, and the DWP. For more information about the SWAP, please contact the DWP at telephone 207 287-2070.
If you have any questions about this report or concerning you water utility, please contact Nancy Seeley, Manager, at telephone number 207 853-2660, fax 207 853-2783, or at mailing address 56 Water Street, Eastport, Maine 04631. We want our valued customers to be informed about their water system. If you want to learn more, please attend any of our regularly scheduled board meetings. They are held at the District Office on Water Street. Meetings are held as scheduled and published each month. Agenda are posted regularly at the Eastport City Hall, the water district, and the tribal office in Pleasant Point.
WATER QUALITY
Passamaquoddy Water District routinely monitors for contaminants in your drinking water according to Federal and State laws. The following table shows any detection resulting from our monitoring for the period of January 1st to December 31, 2009. *
In 2009, due to efforts to protect the water supply, we applied for and were granted a three-year waiver for synthetic organics (Phase II/V) testing. This is an exemption from the testing/monitoring requirements for pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and other industrial chemicals; the state of Maine Drinking Water Program grants a waiver only upon a finding that ”it will not result in an unreasonable risk to health.”
The sources of drinking water include rivers, lakes, ponds and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and radioactive material and can pick up substances resulting from human or animal activity. All sources of drinking water are subject to potential contamination by substances that are naturally occurring or man made. Contaminants that may be present in source water include:
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 storm water runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and
gas production mining or framing.
Pesticides and herbicides may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban
storm water runoff, and residential uses.
Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, are by-
products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas
stations, urban storm water runoff, and septic systems.
Radioactive contaminants can be naturally-occurring or be the result of oil and
gas production and mining activities
In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, U.S, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health.
The table below lists all of the drinking water contaminants that were detected through out water quality monitoring and testing. The presence of contaminants in the water does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk.
TEST RESULTS
Unless otherwise noted, testing was done in 2009
Contaminant
Microbiological Contaminants
Total Coliform Bacteria
Violation N
Level Detected: 0 positive
Unit Measurement: Highest monthly # of positive samples
MCLG: 0 positive
MICL: 1 positive
Likely Source of Contamination: Naturally present in the environment
Turbidity (10/28/08)
Violation N
Level Detected 0.95
Unit Measurement ntu
MCLG n/a
MCL TT
Likely Source of Contamination: Soil Runoff
Radioactive Contaminants
Gross Alpha (3/1/06)
No Violation
Level Detected 0.117
Unit Measurement; pCi/L
MCLG: 0
MCL: 15
Likely Source of Contamination: Naturally occurring radioactivity in bedrock
Inorganic Contaminants
Barium (4/2/09)
Violation N
Level Detected: 0.005
Unit Measurement: ppm
MCLG: 2
MCL: 2
Likely Sources of Contamination: Erosion of natural deposits
Copper (1/1/08-12/31/10)
Violation N
Level Detected 0.8
Unit Measurement ppm
MCLG 1.3
MCL AL=1.3
Likely source of contamination: Corrosion of household plumbing systems
Fluoride (10/07/09)
Violation: N
Level Detected: 1.5
Unit Measurement: ppm
MCLG: 4
MCL: 4
Likely Source of Contamination: Additive to promote dental health.
Lead (1/1/08-12/31/10)
Violation: N
Level Detected: 4.0
Unit Measurement: ppb
MCLG: 0
MCL: AL=15
Likely Source of Contamination: Corrosion of household plumbing systems
* = Report results are the 90th percentile value (the value that 90% of all samples are less than).
Disinfection By-Products
Contaminant: HAA5 (Total Haloacetic Acids) 2009
Violation N
Level Detected RAA=22.6 (0.0-78.0.)
Unit Measurement ppb
MCLG 0
MCL 60
Like Source of Contamination: By products of drinking water chlorination.
Contaminant: TTHM (Total Trihalomethanes) (2009)
Violation: N
Level Detected: RAA=53.08
Unit Measurement: ppb
MCLG: 0
MCL: 80
Likely Source of Contamination: By-product of drinking water chlorination
Initial Distribution System Evaluation (IDSE) Data**
Contaminant
HAA5 (Total Haloacetic Acids)
Level Detected: RAA + 10.77 (5.1-26.0)
Unit Measurement: ppb
Likely Source of Contamination: By-Product of Drinking Water Chlorination
TTHM (Total Trihalomethanes)
Level Detected: RAA=53.22 (39.0-62-3
Unit Measurement: ppb
Likely Source of Contamination: By-Product of Drinking Water Chlorination
**In 2009, under the EPA Stage 2 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule (DBPB) our water system was required to conduct an Initial Distribution System Evaluation (IDSE). The IDSE is a one-time evaluation to determine the levels of disinfection byproducts (TTHM & HAA) in the distribution system for future regulations. Disinfection byproducts are the result of the disinfection of your drinking water. They form when the disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic matter in the water. The IDSE data was not used for compliance purposes by the Maine Drinking Water Program, and test results were not required to meet the MCL of 60 ppb for HAA and 80 pps for 80pps for TTHM.
Note: The state allows us to monitor for some contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants do not change frequently. Not all contaminants are tested for every year due to monitoring waivers and therefore we must use the most recent round of sampling, Some of our data is more than one year old, however, is limited to no older than 5 years.
Definitions
Action Level – (AL) -The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.
Maximum Contaminant Level – (MCL) is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology.
Maximum Contaminant Level Goal – (MCLG) is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.
Maximum Residual Disinfection Level (MRDL) - The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants.
Maximum Residual Disinfection Level Goal (MRDLG) – The level of drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk of health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants.
Not Applicable (N/A) – Does not apply.
Running Annual Average (RAA) – The average of all monthly or quarterly samples for the last year at all sample locations.
Treatment Technique (TT) – A required process intended to resolve the level of a contaminant in drinking water (e.g. treatment technique fro turbidity).
Variances, Exceptions, and Waivers – State or EPA permission not to met an MCL, a treatment technique or test for a given contaminant under certain conditions.
Units:
Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU) – nephelometric turbidity unit is a measure of the clarity of water. Turbidity in excess of 5 NTU is just noticeable in the average person.
Parts per billion (ppb) or micrograms per liter (ug/L) – One part per billion corresponds to one minute in 2,000 years, or a single penny on $10,000,000.
Parts per million (ppm) or Milligrams per liter (mg/L) – One part per million corresponds to one minute in two years or a single penny in $10,000,000.
Picocuries per liter (pCi/L) – A measure of the radioactivity in water.
Notes:
Barium: Some people who drink water containing barium in excess of the MCL over many years could experience an increase in their blood pressure.
Gross Alpha: Action level over 5 pCi/L requires testing for Radium. Action level over 15 pCi/L requires testing for Radon and Uranium.
Lead/Copper: Action levels are measured at consumer’s tap. 90% of the tests must be equal to or below the action level; therefore, the listed results above have been calculated and are listed s the 90th percentile.
Fluoride: Fluoride levels must be maintained between 1-2 ppm, for those water systems that fluoridate the water.
Total Coliform Bacteria: Reported as the highest monthly number of positive samples, for water systems that take < 40 samples per month.
TTHM/HAA5: Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) and Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) are formed as a by-product of drinking water chlorination. This chemical reaction occurs when chlorine combines with naturally occurring organic matter in water.
Turbidity: Turbidity had no health effects. However, turbidity can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate that presence of disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.
IMFORTANT Information
Current Developments:
The Passamaquoddy Water District is continuing its efforts to improve the quality of the water it delivers to its customers and improve the quality of Fire Protection to our community.
The district worked on two projects in 2009 with ARRA funds (American Recovery Reinvestment Act).
In the first project, the district replaces approximately 9000 feet of deteriorated mains, 25 gate valves, service connections to all customers on these lines and 11 fire hydrants.
In the second project, the district hired A. E. Hodsdon, Engineering to conduct a plant upgrade pilot study to optimize the efficiency of the water treatment process. This study helped identify the areas of the treatment process that could be improved to reduce the disinfection byproduct levels and to provide the customers with safe, pleasant tasting and affordable drinking water.
The district started the year 2009 with a consent agreement issued by the DWP due to violations on the disinfection byproducts. Through much hard work and diligence on the part of the employees and our engineers, we have met our requirements to be in full compliance with the disinfection byproducts and all other Drinking Water and DEP requirements.
The total cost for both these projects was $1,557.000. To cover the cost of this project, the district received $1,557.000 from the SRF/ARRA program ($1,667.750 in grant money and the balance of $389,250 in loan from the MMBB for a term of 30 years at 0% interest.)
Future Plans
In addition to the above projects, the district will be installing a monitoring station in 2010 to monitor the chlorine residual at the first customer (required by the DWP). This will eliminate the need for overtime paid and give the district a continuous reading of the chlorine residual.
The Passamaquoddy Tribal Government received a grant from Indian Health Services and other government agencies to conduct a study of ground water available in the area to supply the two communities. The study will be complete in 2010.
The district will continue to replace deteriorated mains each year as the funds become available to the district through grants and low interest loans. We hope to replace approximately 5000 feet of deteriorated mains in 2010.
In the process of replacing the deteriorated mains, we are able to “loop” the distribution system allowing for a constant flow of water. This eliminates taste and odor problems along the resident water; which is a contributor to the disinfection byproduct problem.
An application for an eighteen percent rate increase has been submitted to the PUC, to cover the cost of the loan for the main replacement and treatment plant study. The rates should be effective in 2010.
We will continue our efforts to improve the water treatment process and protect our water resources. We will also continue replace deteriorated water mains to deliver cleaner, sager water to our customers
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) and Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) MCL Violations: TTHM and HAA5 are formed as a by-product of drinking water chlorination. This chemical reaction occurs when chlorine combines with naturally occurring organic matter in water. Water test were done on your drinking water this summer, when TTHM and HAA5 are thought to be at their highest. The results of this test revealed the RRA levels for TTHM in excess of the MCL of 80 ppb for all four quarters (compliance periods) in 2008. However, it is important to note that the MCL is supposed to be based on the running annual average, not just one test taken in the summer. We are in the process of exploring the various options to reduce TTHM in your water supply. Some people who drink water containing TTHM in excess of the MCL
over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous systems, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
For most people, the health benefits of drinking plenty of water outweigh any possible health risk from these contaminants. However, 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 a risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care provider. EPA/Center of Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk f infection by cryptosporidium and other microbiological contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).
If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. We are responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap of thirty (30) seconds to two (2) minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://ww.epa.gov/safewater/lead.
We, at Passamaquoddy Water District, work hard to provide top quality water to every tap. We ask that all our customers help us protect and preserve our drinking water resources, which are the heart of our community, our way of life, and our children’s future. Please contact us with any questions. Thank you for working together for safe drinking water.
DRINKING WATER NOTICE
Passamaquoddy Water District PWSID #90510
Level of Total Trihalomethanes exceed Federal Drinking Water Standard
2nd, Quarter 2009
Water tests conducted each calendar quarter showed that the average level of Total Trihalomethanes in the drinking water was above the maximum contaminant level (MCL) allowed. The MCL is 80 parts per billion (ppb) and the running annual average level in our water for the second qt. of 2009 was 102ppb. Currently, our running annual average is in full compliance at the level of 43.50ppb.
What Should You Do
There is nothing that you need to do at this time other than to be aware that the water has Haloacetic Acids above the allowable level and to take any precautions your doctor advises if you have a specific health problem.
Possible Health Effects
Some people who drink water containing Trihalomethanes in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
Steps We are Taking
Corrective Action.
Corrective Action. We have replaced deteriorated water mains throughout the system, reduced the level of sodium hypochlorite, and adjusted the chemicals and pH in the drinking water reducing the Total Organic Carbons. We continue using an engineering firm to work with our operators to optimize the efficiency of the water treatment.
We feel this problem is corrected. Our goal is to continue working with the engineers to assure our customers that we are working diligently to supply them with safe drinking water. For more information. Please contact Nancy M. Seeley of the Passamaquoddy Water District at 207 853-2660 or mailing address 56 Water Street, Eastport, Maine 104631.
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
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