What's in Your Drinking Water?
The Importance of Municipal Water Quality
A Deep Dive into Sevier County, Tennessee
Water is the essence of life. It’s a simple fact that we often take for granted, especially when it comes to the water that flows from our taps. But have you ever stopped to think about what’s in your drinking water and why it matters so much? Let’s dive into this crucial topic and explore why the quality of municipal water is so important, with a special focus on Sevier County, Tennessee.
Why Does Knowing What's in Your Drinking Water & Sevier County Water Quality Matter?
Knowing what’s in your drinking water matters! The quality of our water directly impacts our health and well-being1 . The United States has one of the safest water supplies in the world, with over 90 percent of Americans getting their tap water from community water systems1. These systems are subject to safe drinking water standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)12.
However, even with these stringent standards, water contamination can still occur. Contaminants can come from various sources, including sewage releases, naturally occurring chemicals and minerals, local land use practices, manufacturing processes, and malfunctioning on-site wastewater treatment systems12. The presence of too many contaminants in the water can lead to a wide range of adverse health conditions and diseases3.
The Role of Municipal Water Quality Testing & Knowing What's In Your Drinking Water
Regular water quality testing provides important data to help inform decisions about the treatment of public drinking water supplies2. The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) requires community water systems to meet federal regulations set by the EPA2. These regulations include standards for the presence and levels of over 90 contaminants in public drinking water2.
In Sevier County, Tennessee, the Sevier County Water Authority is committed to delivering safe and dependable drinking water to its residents
Numerous water quality tests performed in the distribution system in 2022 revealed that the water meets and exceeds all State and Federal drinking water quality standards.
The water in Sevier County comes from various sources
including the French Broad River, West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, and Douglas Lake. The goal is to protect our water from contaminants, and efforts are being made to determine the vulnerability of our water sources to potential contamination.
Knowledge is power, and staying informed about your local water quality is a crucial part of maintaining your health and the health of your community. I encourage all residents of Sevier County to download the most recent water quality report4. This report provides valuable information about the water quality in your area and the efforts being made to ensure the safety of your drinking water.
Remember, clean water is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity for our health and well-being. Let’s all do our part to stay informed and ensure the safety of our water.
