Water Quality Reports

2023 Water Quality Report

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Austin

• 2023 Water Quality Report 

• Español - 2023 Informe Anual Sobre la Calidad del Agua

  Special Notice - You may be more vulnerable than the general population to certain microbial contaminants, such as Cryptosporidium, in drinking water. Infants, some elderly or immunocompromised persons such as those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer; those who have undergone organ transplants; those who are undergoing treatment with steroids; and people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders can be particularly at risk from infections. You should seek advice about drinking water from your physician or health care provider. Additional guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791. 

  En Español: Este reporte incluye información importante sobre el agua para tomar. Para asistencia en español, por favor llame al 512-972-0155.

About Your Water

Where Your Drinking Water Comes From

Austin Water draws surface water from the Lower Colorado River as it flows through Lake Travis and Lake Austin. The water is then treated at a higher standard than what federal and state law requires at three specialized water treatment plants.

 

We Protect the Source

TCEQ completed an assessment of our source water and results indicate that some of our sources are susceptible to certain contaminants. The sampling requirements for the water system are based on this susceptibility and previous sample data. Any detection of these contaminants will be found in this Consumer Confidence Report. For more information on source water assessments and protection efforts of our system, contact Austin Water’s Water Quality Manager at 512-972-0012.

What Is in Your Drinking Water

As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can be polluted by animals or human activity.

Contaminants that may be present in the source water include:

• Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations and wildlife.
• Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally occurring or result from urban storm water runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining or farming.
• Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, storm water runoff and residential uses.
• Organic chemicals, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production and can also come from gas stations, urban storm water runoff and septic systems.
• Radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally occurring or the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.

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

Contaminants may be found in drinking water that may cause taste, color or odor problems. These types of problems are not necessarily a cause for health concerns. For concerns with taste, odor or color of drinking water, contact Austin Water at 512-972-0012.

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 EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

Our top priority is to ensure our water continues to be safe and satisfying to drink.

Continuous Sampling and Testing

Austin Water collects and tests samples at our treatment plants and across our water system multiple times a day, every day, for bacteria and chemicals that could pose a risk to our customers. Our top priority is to ensure our water continues to be safe and satisfying to drink.

We have taken steps to protect drinking water safety and quality that include:

Protecting Vital Infrastructure

• A copper sulfate feed system was installed in 2020 to protect raw water piping against zebra mussels that can damage equipment and affect taste and odor in drinking water.
• Following the devastating impacts of Winter Storm Uri in 2021, Austin Water’s infrastructure was repaired and winterized to be more resilient during future extreme freezing weather events.

^{Pictured Above: Copper sulfate feed system}

^{Pictured Above: Infrastructure winterization}

Treatment Reliability

• Austin Water sets treatment goals and quality standards that are beyond the minimum state and federal regulatory requirements to provide our customers superior water. TCEQ requirements call for 0.3 NTU or less in treated water or finished water clarity (turbidity), but Austin Water’s goal is 0.1 NTU or lower – and we consistently achieve this standard on average month after month, year after year.
• Implementation of a polymer feed system began in 2020 to strengthen resiliency to flooding impacts and improve filter performance. This treatment capability is especially critical during events when high turbidity may occur in raw source from the lakes. Polymer systems are now fully operational across all three water treatment plants.
• Powdered activated carbon is added as part of the treatment process to minimize taste and odor issues so that drinking water tastes fresh.
• In addition to using on-line equipment that continuously monitors treatment performance in real-time, licensed plant operators conduct water testing at least every two hours during multiple phases of the treatment process every day. This testing includes checks on the levels of disinfectant (chlorine/chloramine) residual, turbidity, pH, alkalinity and water softening.

^{Pictured Above: Continuously monitored treatment performance}

Quality Control in Storage, Pressure and Pipes

• Water storage tanks are tested routinely for bacteriological contaminants to ensure water remains at the same high quality as the moment it left the treatment plant. 
• Water quality instrumentation, which provides real time monitoring for Austin Water operators, is installed and maintained in every major pressure zone to ensure water quality throughout the distribution system.
• Proactive water line replacement is underway, strengthening water distribution networks in 60 subdivisions and consisting of more than 6,000 water lines. This work will reduce line breaks and minimize the risk of contaminant infiltration.

^{Pictured Above: Hands-on monitoring of total chlorine levels}

Finished Drinking Water Testing

• For public safety, and to ensure Austin Water customers receive fresh water, annual maintenance is conducted on every fire hydrant in the city.
• In addition to daily testing at each water treatment plant, a minimum of 300 water samples are collected each month to test for bacteriological contaminants, total chlorine residual levels and other important parameters throughout the water distribution system.

Monitoring for Health Risks

Cryptosporidium

Cryptosporidium is a parasite that can create an infection called astroenteritis. Infection from Cryptosporidium organisms can occur in humans and animals and is spread by contact with soil, water, food or surfaces that have been contaminated. Austin Water monitors our lakes for Cryptosporidium because surface water sources are known to be susceptible to this contaminant.

During the 2023 monitoring for Cryptosporidium, Austin Water collected 20 samples. All samples reported no detection. The treatment processes employed at Austin Water’s treatment plants are effective for removal of Cryptosporidium.

Harmful Algal Blooms

Cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, are microscopic organisms found naturally in surface waters. These organisms use sunlight to make their own food. In warm, nutrient rich waters, cyanobacteria can multiply quickly, creating algal blooms that spread across the water’s surface.

Some algae may produce cyanotoxins which can be harmful to humans and animals. Since 1992, Austin Water has monitored source water and drinking water for the presence of cyanobacteria. In 2015, Austin Water also began monitoring for the presence of cyanotoxins. We conduct routine testing for the presence of cyanotoxins in Lake Austin and Lake Travis, as well as in water that has finished the treatment process at the

Handcox, Davis and Ullrich Treatment Plants. Testing for the presence of cyanobacteria and other microscopic algae in raw lake water is conducted at least weekly, and cyanotoxin testing is performed on a routine basis. Sampling frequency is adjusted based on changing conditions.

In addition, to protect public health and safety, Austin Water has invested in leading-edge technology to shorten the time it takes to receive test results. Employing digital imaging particle analysis and same-day testing, we are able to detect harmful algae quicker than before. We also meet regularly with our counterparts at the City of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department and the Lower Colorado River Authority to review and report on our respective testing and mitigation approaches.

Austin Water performs several treatment techniques at our water plants to effectively and efficiently remove cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins. The harmful cells containing the toxins can be physically removed through the coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation and filtration process. Chlorine, which is part of the plant’s disinfection process, is destructive to cyanotoxins. Finally, the powdered activated carbon that is used to remove taste and odor causing compounds also removes cyanotoxins.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances – or PFAS – are chemicals that are manufactured to enhance everyday products. These chemicals are slow to break down and are now present everywhere – in food, water, air, and soil, as well as clothing, cookware, cosmetics, and other common household items. Current scientific research suggests that exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes.

Through National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is striving to protect public health and reduce PFAS exposure in drinking water. The EPA has identified six PFAS compounds that will soon be regulated and is now working to determine how water utilities will have to test and treat drinking water. The timeline for these regulations to take effect is:

2023 – 2027: Nationwide, water utilities are participating in the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rules (UCMR 5) testing. Results will be used to determine requirements for testing, treatment, and future regulations.

2027 – 2029: Rules about sampling for PFAS and reporting results will go into effect.

2029 and beyond: Treatment processes that are required to remove PFAS from drinking water must be in place and working effectively.

It is important to note that the risk of PFAS exposure is not uniform across the country and is dependent on locations of source water and potential industrial discharge sites that could impact source water quality. Austin is fortunate to draw from the Highland Lakes, which has decades-long environmental protections in place, including a ban on the discharge of pollutants. The risk of exposure to PFAS in drinking water here appears to be lower than in more industrialized jurisdictions.

Austin Water has completed four quarters of UCMR 5 testing for 29 PFAS compounds and lithium in treated tap water from all three water treatment plants. Those results are shown in parts per trillion (ppt) in the table below. For reference, one ppt is equivalent to one drop in three Barton Springs Pools, or 1.2 square inches in the total area of Austin (305 square miles), or one cent in $10 billion. Because testing for these chemicals involves trace amounts, some variation in samples from quarter to quarter can be expected. Some PFAS will be regulated using a unitless Hazard Index. The Hazard Index is computed using a formula for a mixture of four distinct PFAS. Austin’s Hazard Index ranges from 0.0 – 0.6 with an average Hazard Index of 0.2 for all four quarters.

The annual average of all four quarters’ test results will be used by the EPA to determine future regulatory requirements for Austin Water. 

UCMR 5 Test Results
*Asterisks indicate chemicals to be regulated in 2027 and the proposed limits set by the EPA.
Substance	Highest Level Allowed*	Austin Average	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4
PFOA*	4.0 ppt	0	0	0	0	0
PFOS*	4.0 ppt	0.79	0	0 - 4.8	0	0
PFNA*	10 ppt	0	0	0	0	0
HFPO-DA (GenX)*	10 ppt	0	0	0	0	0
PFHxS*	10 ppt	2.3	0	0 - 6.2	0 - 4.8	0 - 4.0
PFBS*	Not regulated individually	1.4	0	0 - 5.1	0	0
PFBA	Not regulated	2.3	5.7 - 8.4	0	0	0 - 5.5
PFHxA	Not regulated	0.5	0	0 - 3.3	0	0
PFPeA	Not regulated	1.2	0	0 - 4.1	0 - 3.1	0
21 Other Compounds	Not regulated	0	0	0	0	0

Get the Lead Out

Austin Water has been evaluating and inspecting our system’s service lines and will complete our inventory of all lines by October of 2024. To date, Austin Water has:

• Found no lead in active service lines.
• Researched service lines to all schools we serve – none contain lead.
• Researched service lines to all licensed daycares we serve –none contain lead.
• Expanded testing beyond what the EPA requires.
• Provided customers with support if a lead service line is suspected (free filter pitcher, flushing instructions and free water testing).

Austin Water’s lime softening process helps coat pipes and prevent corrosion that could leach lead into drinking water, even on the private side.

Check Your Plumbing for Lead

Lead sources are often found in plumbing systems on the property owner’s side of the meter. Although a property owner may have lead piping or fixtures, it does not necessarily mean they are exposed. Austin Water’s lime softening process helps coat pipes and prevent corrosion that could leach lead into drinking water, even on the private side. However, it is a good strategy to identify and replace potential sources of lead on private property. Austin Water can provide free water testing
resources, and a private plumber can advise on the type of pipes in your home.

Some common sources of lead can include: pipes, solder, brass plumbing fixtures, faucets and pipe fittings. These lead sources are more likely to be found in homes and buildings built before 1986. Due to the City of Austin’s early adoption of lead prevention and updated land development criteria, these lead sources are less common than many other major cities across the United States.

Sources of Lead In Drinking Water

If present, lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. In Austin, lead occurs in drinking water primarily from materials and components associated with home plumbing systems. Austin Water is responsible for providing high quality drinking water but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. To minimize the potential for lead exposure, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using it for drinking or cooking - especially if water has been sitting in pipes without running for several hours.

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 800-426-4791 or www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Find information about how Austin Water is keeping lead out of our customer’s water at www.austintexas.gov/lead.

Fluoride and Infants

In 1945, municipalities began adding fluoride to drinking water to fight tooth decay. Follow up studies in these communities over 13-15 years showed a 50-70% reduction in cavities. Because of the potential public health benefits to residents, the City of Austin held a public vote on fluoridation in the early 1970s. The referendum passed with the support of the community, and Austin Water began adding fluoride to the water on February 2, 1973.

Water fluoridated at a level optimal for oral health (as is used in Austin) poses no known health risks for infants. However, some children may develop enamel fluorosis, a cosmetic condition where faint white markings or streaks may appear on the teeth. If you’re concerned about fluorosis, you can minimize your baby’s exposure by breast feeding or using ready-to-feed formula. You can also alternate tap water and non-fluoridated water for formula preparation or mix powered or liquid infant formula concentrate with low-fluoride water most or all of the time. If you use only non-fluoridated water, such as purified, deionized or distilled water to prepare your baby’s formula, your doctor may recommend fluoride supplements.
 

Consumer Confidence Report

Stay Informed About Your Water

Monthly Board and Commission Meetings

There are many opportunities for public input and participation on issues and topics related to water quality. Attend an Austin City Council or Water & Wastewater Commission meeting to learn more. Meeting agendas, dates and times can be found by visiting austintexas.gov/department/city-council/council/council_meeting_info_center.htm and austintexas.gov/content/water-and-wastewater-commission.

Social Media

Follow Austin Water on Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram for information about water quality, updates about infrastructure improvements we’re making to be more resilient, fun lessons for students or opportunities to get involved with water planning in our community. We also share helpful tips on conservation, landscaping and how to protect your pipes during extreme weather events.

Infrastructure Investments

Austin Water continues to make strategic investments in infrastructure improvements to strengthen the water distribution system, proactively replace water lines and reduce the number of line breaks and the risk of infiltrating contaminants.

Water Loss

 The American Water Works Association and Texas Water Development Board establish industry standards for water loss, known as the Infrastructure Leak Index or ILI. Water loss is a function of leakage from the mains and fixtures and a utility’s ILI is scaled to take into account the number of connections and the miles of mains in the system. ILI is not affected by water use or population, which varies from city to city.

For a utility the size of Austin Water, an ILI of between 3 and 5 is considered appropriate. Austin Water’s ILI for 2023 was 4.18. Contact us at 512-972-1000 or visit austinwater.org to learn more.

Resources

A list of frequently asked questions is available. 

Industrial Users

Monthly and quarterly summaries of water quality parameters in finished drinking water.