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Consumer Confidence Report & Water Quality

Placer County water is primarily from Folsom Lake but is also supplied by other sources. This area’s water originates from the Sierra snowpack and the American River’s surface water, which flows into Folsom Lake, then supplies the Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) Bianchi service area. Chemicals found in Placer County water that were higher than expected include: fluoride, total trihalomethane, and total haloacetic acids. Trihalomethane and haloacetic acids were an unexpected discovery for me, but after my quick search about them helped me understood they were categories for disinfectants of drinking water. Using the ToxNet database, I found that these groups of chemicals could have serious reproductive and developmental effects on humans.

 Upon looking into the consumer confidence report, I realized the water quality in Placer County is not terrible, but some of the chemicals found were near the higher end of the spectrum of the maximum levels allowed. Our family uses a filter for our drinking water to filter out any remaining particles and sediments, as well as excess chemicals from water treatment. Additionally, I drink bottled water on occasion. For instance, when I’m on trips and don’t have easy access to drinking water. Although I don’t drink bottled water frequently, I can understand how people like myself have fallen into the trap of manufactured demand. It’ll be a major step for environmental health if everyone in the world were to release themselves from these ideas and move toward reusable water bottles. 


Comments

  1. JudyJudeSeptember 28, 2018 at 3:10 PM

    Traveling can put us in predicaments where we are in need to purchasing water bottles. Even though I travel with my reusable 32 ounce bottle, I cannot have it filled with water if I am flying because of the security requirements at the airport. Therefore, I have to buy a water bottle once I pass the security point to get me through my travel. Once I reach the city I am visiting, I make a quick stop at a grocery store and purchase the big jugs of water to keep refilling my 32 ounce bottle, or I use the bottle I purchased at the air port multiple times before disposing of it. If we all make the effort to be mindful and recycle, reuse, and reduce, I am certain we can make a lasting impact on the environment.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Antonio SorianoNovember 9, 2018 at 2:55 PM

    I am unfamiliar with haloacetic acids and I appreciate the highlight on the developmental effects they have. My family also uses filters and I find the health benefitsIt is very important that we continue to promote the use of reusable water bottles.

    ReplyDelete

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