Layer 1

Is Fairfax Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Yes! Generally Safe to Drink*

LAST UPDATED: 7:47 pm, July 22, 2022
+

Table of Contents

Can You Drink Tap Water in Fairfax?

Yes, Fairfax's tap water is generally considered safe to drink as Fairfax has no active health based violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) that we are aware of. Other factors such as lead piping in a home, or low levels of pollutants on immunocompromised individuals, should also be considered, however. To find more recent info we might have, you can check out our boil water notice page, the city's water provider website, or Fairfax's local Twitter account.

According the EPA’s ECHO database, from April 30, 2019 to June 30, 2022, Fairfax's water utility, Fairfax County Water Authority, had 0 violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act. For more details on the violations, please see our violation history section below. This assessment is based on the Fairfax County Water Authority water system, other water systems in the city may have different results.

While tap water that meets the EPA health guidelines generally won’t make you sick to your stomach, it can still contain regulated and unregulated contaminants present in trace amounts that could potentially cause health issues over the long-run. These trace contaminants may also impact immunocompromised and vulnerable individuals.

The EPA is reviewing if it’s current regulations around pollutant levels in tap water are strict enough, and the health dangers posed by unregulated pollutants, like PFAS.

Water Quality Report for Fairfax Tap Water

The most recent publicly available numbers for measured contaminant levels in Fairfax tap water are in its 2020 Water Quality Report. As you can see, there are levels which the EPA considers to be acceptable, but being below the maximum allowable level doesn’t necessarily mean the water is healthy.

Lead in tap water, for example, is currently allowed at up to 15ppb by the EPA, but it has set the ideal goal for lead at zero. This highlights how meeting EPA standards doesn’t necessarily mean local tap water is healthy.

EPA regulations continue to change as it evaluates the long term impacts of chemicals and updates drinking water acceptable levels. The rules around arsenic, as well as, lead and copper are currently being re-evaluated.

There are also a number of "emerging" contaminants that are not currently. For example, PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), for which the EPA has issued a health advisory. PFAS are called "forever chemicals" since they tend not to break down in the environment or the human body and can accumulate over time.

We recommend looking at the contaminants present in Fairfax's water quality reports, or getting your home's tap water tested to see if you should be filtering your water.

Fairfax Tap Water Safe Drinking Water Act Violation History - Prior 10 Years

Below is a ten year history of violations for the water system named Fairfax County Water Authority for Fairfax in Virginia. For more details please see the "What do these Violations Mean?" section below.

Is there Lead in Fairfax Water?

Based on the EPA’s ECHO Database, 90% of the samples taken from the Fairfax water system, Fairfax County Water Authority, between sample start date and sample end date, were at or below, 0.001 mg/L of lead in Fairfax water. This is 6.7% of the 0.015 mg/L action level. This means 10% of the samples taken from Fairfax contained more lead.

While Fairfax water testing may have found 0.001 mg/L of lead in its water, that does not mean your water source has the same amount. The amount of lead in water in a city can vary greatly from neighborhood to neighborhood, or even building to building. Many buildings, particularly older ones, have lead pipes or service lines which can be a source of contamination. To find out if your home has lead, we recommend getting you water tested.

No amount of lead in water is healthy, only less dangerous. As lead accumulates in our bodies over time, even exposure to relatively small amounts can have negative health effects. For more information, please check out our Lead FAQ page.

Are there PFAS in Fairfax Tap Water?

Currently, testing tap water for PFAS isn’t mandated on a national level. We do have a list of military bases where there have been suspected or confirmed leaks. There appears to be at least one military base - NAVSURFWARCEN WBETH DD - near Fairfax with suspected leaks.

With many potential sources of PFAS in tap water across the US, the best information we currently have about which cities have PFAS in their water is this ewg map, which you can check to see if Fairfax has been evaluated for yet.

Our stance is better safe than sorry, and that it makes sense to try to purify the tap water just in case.

What do these Violations Mean?

Safe Drinking Water Act Violations categories split into two groups, health based, and non-health based. Generally, health based violations are more serious, though non-health based violations can also be cause for concern.

Health Based Violations

  1. Maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) - maximum allowed contaminant level was exceeded.
  2. Maximum residual disinfectant levels (MRDLs) - maximum allowed disinfectant level was exceeded.
  3. Other violations (Other) - the exact required process to reduce the amounts of contaminants in drinking water was not followed.

Non-Health Based Violations

  1. Monitoring and reporting violations (MR, MON) - failure to conduct the required regular monitoring of drinking water quality, and/or to submit monitoring results on time.
  2. Public notice violations (Other) - failure to immediately alert consumers if there is a serious problem with their drinking water that may pose a risk to public health.
  3. Other violations (Other) - miscellaneous violations, such as failure to issue annual consumer confidence reports or maintain required records.

SDWA Table Key

Field Description
Compliance Period Dates of the compliance period.
Status Current status of the violation.
  • Resolved - The violation has at least one resolving enforcement action. In SDWIS, this indicates that either the system has returned to compliance from the violation, the rule that was violated was no longer applicable, or no further action was needed.
  • Archived - The violation is not Resolved, but is more than five years past its compliance period end date. In keeping with the Enforcement Response Policy, the violation no longer contributes to the public water system's overall compliance status. Unresolved violations are also marked as Archived when a system ceases operations (becomes inactive).
  • Addressed - The violation is not Resolved or Archived, and is addressed by one or more formal enforcement actions.
  • Unaddressed - The violation is not Resolved or Archived, and has not been addressed by formal enforcement.
show details
Health-Based? Whether the violation is health based.
Category Code
The category of violation that is reported.
  • TT - Treatment Technique Violation
  • MRDL - Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level
  • Other - Other Violation
  • MCL - Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
  • MR - Monitoring and Reporting
  • MON - Monitoring Violation
  • RPT - Reporting Violation
show details
Code A full description of violation codes can be accessed in the SDWA_REF_CODE_VALUES (CSV) table.
Contaminant Code A code value that represents a contaminant for which a public water system has incurred a violation of a primary drinking water regulation.
Rule Code Code for a National Drinking Water rule.
  • 110 - Total Coliform Rule
  • 121 - Surface Water Treatment Rule
  • 122 - Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
  • 123 - Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
  • 130 - Filter Backwash Rule
  • 140 - Ground Water Rule
  • 210 - Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
  • 220 - Stage 2 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
  • 230 - Total Trihalomethanes
  • 310 - Volatile Organic Chemicals
  • 331 - Nitrates
  • 332 - Arsenic
  • 333 - Inorganic Chemicals
  • 320 - Synthetic Organic Chemicals
  • 340 - Radionuclides
  • 350 - Lead and Copper Rule
  • 410 - Public Notice Rule
  • 420 - Consumer Confidence Rule
  • 430 - Miscellaneous
  • 500 - Not Regulated
  • 111 - Revised Total Coliform Rule
show details
Rule Group Code Code that uniquely identifies a rule group.
  • 120 - Surface Water Treatment Rules
  • 130 - Filter Backwash Rule
  • 140 - Groundwater Rule
  • 210 - Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
  • 220 - Stage 2 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
  • 230 - Total Trihalomethanes
  • 310 - Volatile Organic Chemicals
  • 320 - Synthetic Organic Chemicals
  • 330 - Inorganic Chemicals
  • 340 - Radionuclides
  • 350 - Lead and Copper Rule
  • 400 - Other
  • 500 - Not Regulated
  • 110 - Total Coliform Rules
  • 410 - Public Notice Rule
  • 420 - Consumer Confidence Rule
  • 430 - Miscellaneous
show details
Rule Family Code Code for rule family.
  • 100 - Microbials
  • 200 - Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
  • 300 - Chemicals
  • 400 - Other
  • 500 - Not Regulated
show details

For more clarification please visit the EPA's data dictionary.

Fairfax Water - Frequently Asked Questions

HOW IS MY WATER QUALITY?
Your water quality is excellent. As a Fairfax Water customer, you drink water that consistently surpasses all federal and state standards. Of the 286 compounds we tested for, very few were found in our drinking water. Those we found were in negligible amounts well below the EPA’s maximum contaminant levels. Fairfax Water’s state-certified Water Quality Laboratory performs or manages the testing required by federal and state regulations. In addition to regulatory testing, many other analyses are performed to monitor the quality of Fairfax Water’s raw water sources, water within the treatment process, and water within the distribution system. Water undergoing the treatment process is continuously monitored for pH, turbidity, coagulation efficiency, and disinfectant residuals using technologically advanced online monitoring systems. Chlorine, pH, and temperature testing are also performed at sample location sites throughout the system using portable instrumentation. The results for much of the 2020 testing are included in the tables on pages 14-25 of this report. For additional analytical reports, visit fairfaxwater.org or call 703-698-5600, TTY 711.
HOW IS THE WATER TESTED AND BY WHOM?
Fairfax Water’s state-certified Water Quality Laboratory performs or manages the testing required by federal and state regulations. In addition to regulatory testing, many other analyses are performed to monitor the quality of Fairfax Water’s raw water sources, water within the treatment process, and water within the distribution system. Water undergoing the treatment process is continuously monitored for pH, turbidity, coagulation efficiency, and disinfectant residuals using technologically advanced online monitoring systems. Chlorine, pH, and temperature testing are also performed at sample location sites throughout the system using portable instrumentation. The results for much of the 2020 testing are included in the tables on pages 14-25 of this report. For additional analytical reports, visit fairfaxwater.org or call 703-698-5600, TTY 711.
HOW IS YOUR WATER TREATED?
Fairfax Water provides water that is treated at four treatment plants. The James J. Corbalis Jr. and the Frederick P. Griffith Jr. treatment plants are owned and operated by Fairfax Water. The Dalecarlia and McMillan treatment plants, part of the Washington Aqueduct, are owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. All four plants use advanced technologies and practices in drinking water treatment, which is the process of cleaning raw water to make it safe for you to drink. When untreated water enters the treatment plant, coagulants are added to cause small particles to adhere to one another, become heavy, and settle in a sedimentation basin. The water is then filtered through carbon and sand to remove any remaining fine particles. It is disinfected with chlorine to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. A corrosion inhibitor is added to help prevent leaching of lead and copper that might be in household plumbing. Fluoride is added to protect teeth. Powdered activated carbon and potassium permanganate may also be added to the treatment process to remove taste and odor-causing compounds. In addition to these treatment steps, the Corbalis and Griffith plants use ozone to further reduce odors and organic material. Throughout this report, you will find many references to water in different stages of the treatment process. NOTE ABOUT MEETINGS OF THE FAIRFAX WATER BOARD Fairfax Water’s Board typically meets the first and third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Board room of the Fairfax Water offices at 8570 Executive Park Avenue in Fairfax. Notices of public hearings and other opportunities for public participation are posted in the lobby and on the website at fairfaxwater.org. If you plan to attend a meeting or need more information, contact Fairfax Water at 703-289-6029, TTY 711, to confirm the date and time for the meeting.
WHERE DOES LEAD IN DRINKING WATER COME FROM?
The Potomac River and the Occoquan Reservoir (Fairfax Water’s sources) do not contain lead. In 1986, lead was banned from use in pipe and solder in home construction. In older homes where lead is present in pipe and solder connections, lead can dissolve into the water after the water sits for long periods. Some household plumbing components may contain a small amount of lead and can contribute to lead concentrations at the tap. Fairfax Water adds a phosphate-based corrosion inhibitor during the treatment process to slow this dissolution process. For more information on lead in your water, visit our website: fairfaxwater.org. 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. Fairfax Water is responsible for providing high- quality drinking water but cannot control the materials used in plumbing components in home construction. If you are concerned about lead in your water, following these tips can help minimize the potential for lead exposure.
WHAT CAN I DO IN MY HOME TO REDUCE EXPOSURE TO LEAD IN MY WATER?
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. Fairfax Water is responsible for providing high- quality drinking water but cannot control the materials used in plumbing components in home construction. If you are concerned about lead in your water, following these tips can help minimize the potential for lead exposure.
WHAT ARE THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH BENEFITS?
The UCMR program provides the EPA and other interested parties with nationally representative data on the occurrence of particular contaminants in drinking water, the number of people potentially being exposed and an estimate of the levels of that exposure. In accordance with Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA will consider the occurrence data from UCMR 4 and other sources, along with the peer reviewed health effects assessments, to support a regulatory determination on whether to initiate the process to develop a national primary drinking water regulation. For more information on UCMR 4, visit EPA’s UCMR web page (epa.gov/dwucmr) or call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?
In the winter, salt keeps us safe while we are on the move, but it also leads to higher levels of salt in the region’s drinking water supply, including the Potomac River and Occoquan Reservoir. Learn more and be winter salt smart! Winter salt is rock salt (sodium chloride) or ice melt (a blend of sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, and other salt). These materials are used in the winter to prevent icing of sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways. The Virginia Salt Management Strategy (SaMS) was established by a diverse group of stakeholders (including Fairfax Water) and coordinated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. SaMS will provide recommendations for improving winter practices through efficient and effective use of salt while maintaining the same levels of safety. The strategy will also offer ways to raise awareness of these impacts, show how individuals and organizations can participate, and provide guidance for monitoring and research to support action on SaMS recommendations. In addition to SaMS, Fairfax Water will continue to monitor source water quality and work closely with the county and other agencies to analyze trends and explore solutions.
WHAT IS WINTER SALT?
Winter salt is rock salt (sodium chloride) or ice melt (a blend of sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, and other salt). These materials are used in the winter to prevent icing of sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways. The Virginia Salt Management Strategy (SaMS) was established by a diverse group of stakeholders (including Fairfax Water) and coordinated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. SaMS will provide recommendations for improving winter practices through efficient and effective use of salt while maintaining the same levels of safety. The strategy will also offer ways to raise awareness of these impacts, show how individuals and organizations can participate, and provide guidance for monitoring and research to support action on SaMS recommendations. In addition to SaMS, Fairfax Water will continue to monitor source water quality and work closely with the county and other agencies to analyze trends and explore solutions.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF WINTER SALT USE?
The Virginia Salt Management Strategy (SaMS) was established by a diverse group of stakeholders (including Fairfax Water) and coordinated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. SaMS will provide recommendations for improving winter practices through efficient and effective use of salt while maintaining the same levels of safety. The strategy will also offer ways to raise awareness of these impacts, show how individuals and organizations can participate, and provide guidance for monitoring and research to support action on SaMS recommendations. In addition to SaMS, Fairfax Water will continue to monitor source water quality and work closely with the county and other agencies to analyze trends and explore solutions.
WHAT ARE THE DOWNSIDES OF ITS USE?
The Virginia Salt Management Strategy (SaMS) was established by a diverse group of stakeholders (including Fairfax Water) and coordinated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. SaMS will provide recommendations for improving winter practices through efficient and effective use of salt while maintaining the same levels of safety. The strategy will also offer ways to raise awareness of these impacts, show how individuals and organizations can participate, and provide guidance for monitoring and research to support action on SaMS recommendations. In addition to SaMS, Fairfax Water will continue to monitor source water quality and work closely with the county and other agencies to analyze trends and explore solutions.
WHAT ARE FAIRFAX WATER AND OTHER AGENCIES DOING TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM?
The Virginia Salt Management Strategy (SaMS) was established by a diverse group of stakeholders (including Fairfax Water) and coordinated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. SaMS will provide recommendations for improving winter practices through efficient and effective use of salt while maintaining the same levels of safety. The strategy will also offer ways to raise awareness of these impacts, show how individuals and organizations can participate, and provide guidance for monitoring and research to support action on SaMS recommendations. In addition to SaMS, Fairfax Water will continue to monitor source water quality and work closely with the county and other agencies to analyze trends and explore solutions.
HOW DO I CONTACT FAIRFAX CUSTOMER SERVICE?
To contact customer service for the Fairfax water provider, Fairfax County Water Authority, please use the information below.
By Mail: 1295 FRED MORIN ROAD
HERNDON, VA, 20170
HOW TO PAY BILL FOR FAIRFAX COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY
Already have an account?

Existing customers can login to their Fairfax County Water Authority account to pay their Fairfax water bill by clicking here.

Want to create a new account?

If you want to pay your Fairfax County Water Authority bill online and haven't made an account yet, you can create an account online. Please click here to create your account to pay your Fairfax water bill.

Want to pay without an account?

If you don't want to make an account, or can't remember your account, you can make a one-time payment towards your Fairfax water bill without creating an account using a one time payment portal with your account number and credit or debit card. Click here to make a one time payment.

HOW TO START & STOP FAIRFAX WATER SERVICE
Starting Your Service

Moving to a new house or apartment in Fairfax means you will often need to put the water in your name with Fairfax County Water Authority. In order to put the water in your name, please click the link to the start service form below. Start service requests for water bills typically take two business days.

Start Service Form

Want to create a new account?

Leaving your house or apartment in Fairfax means you will likely need to take your name off of the water bill with Fairfax County Water Authority. In order to take your name off the water bill, please click the link to the stop service form below. Stop service for water bills requests typically take two business days.

Stop Service Form

The estimated price of bottled water

$1.5 in USD (1.5-liter)

USER SUBMITTED RATINGS

Fairfax tap water
  • Drinking Water Pollution and Inaccessibility 13% Very Low
  • Water Pollution 25% Low
  • Drinking Water Quality and Accessibility 87% Very High
  • Water Quality 75% High

The above data is comprised of subjective, user submitted opinions about the water quality and pollution in Fairfax, measured on a scale from 0% (lowest) to 100% (highest).

Related FAQS

Fairfax Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report)

The EPA mandates that towns and cities consistently monitor and test their tap water. They must report their findings in an annual Consumer Confidence Report. Below is the most recent water quality report from Fairfax's Water. If you would like to see the original version of the report, please click here.

2

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

We are, all of us, water beings on a water planet. Water is life. Without it, all living things die. Our dependence on water is absolute; our psyches

know this and signal us in myriad ways of water’s elemental importance and significance. That is why we love the water and remember experiences associated with it.

“Of the earth’s vast resources of water, only a small fraction is fresh and drinkable. A few people among the globe’s billions have been charged with the task of ensuring everyone else has a reliable supply of safe water. Supplying potable water is an essentialhuman activity, a great responsibility, and a vocation of distinction.

J.B. Mannion

1931-2009

Former Executive Director

American Water Works Association

This report contains very important information about your drinking water. Please translate it or speak with someone who understands it. If you are a landlord, please share a copy of this report with your tenants.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

3

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

LETTERS FROM OUR EXECUTIVE LEADERS

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

UNDERSTANDING YOUR WATER QUALITY

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINDING YOUR WATER QUALITY

8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INFORMATION ABOUT SOURCE (RAW) WATER

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

REDUCING EXPOSURE TO LEAD

10

 

 

 

 

 

 

UNDERSTANDING WATER QUALITY TEST RESULTS

12

 

 

 

 

 

 

KEY TERMINOLOGY AND ABBREVIATIONS

13

 

 

 

 

 

 

FAIRFAX WATER LEGACY AND CITY OF FAIRFAX SERVICE AREA RESULTS

14

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY OF FALLS CHURCH SERVICE AREA RESULTS

18

 

 

 

 

 

 

ARLINGTON SPECIAL SERVICE AREA RESULTS

22

 

 

 

 

 

 

2020 CRYPTOSPORIDIUM MONITORING STATEMENT

26

 

 

 

 

 

 

2020 UNREGULATED CONTAMINANT MONITORING (UCMR 4) RULE DATA

28

 

 

 

 

 

 

FACTS ABOUT PFAS

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

BE WINTER SALT SMART: LEARN HOW TO PROTECT OUR SOURCE WATER

31

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

Letter From the

Chairman

June 2021

My fellow Fairfax Water customers,

With all that happened in 2020, I am proud to report to you that your Water Quality is Excellent. Despite the complexities we all faced last year, Fairfax Water staff more than met the challenge of the uncertain and evolving threat of COVID-19. Water quality and the water treatment process play a vital role in public health, especially during a pandemic. Transmission of the virus is not a risk in treated drinking water. Disinfectants, like chlorine, used to treat drinking water are effective in inactivating COVID-19. Situations like the one we are experiencing today show the vast importance that chlorination and our other disinfection processes have on protecting public health.

Once again this year, Fairfax Water has met and surpassed standards set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). The Board and employees of Fairfax Water all know the importance of the essential service that we provide. That focus will not change, and it is what drives our organization to consistently surpass water quality standards while keeping water rates at one of the lowest levels in the region.

We hope you enjoy reading this year’s report. Rest assured Fairfax Water is ready and resilient, and our team is working hard every day so that you can have complete faith in the quality of your water.

Philip W. Allin

Chairman of the Board

Fairfax Water

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

5

 

Letter From the

General Manager

June 2021

Dear Fairfax Water customers,

Even with the challenges that came with the pandemic, our Fairfax Water team continued to work tirelessly last year to treat and deliver water to your home. It’s not a stretch to say that this past year has been unlike any other. At the start of 2020, we knew that whatever the pandemic might bring, we would stick to our mission: to provide our customers with reliable and abundant water of exceptional quality at a reasonable price. I am pleased to say that this year’s water quality report shows the outstanding quality of our water once again.

Our team recognized from the start that our customers would want an extra layer of safety in our interactions with them, and we immediately took steps to make that happen. Staff and crews in the field took all necessary safety precautions while being accessible to our customers. We’ve received many compliments this year from customers about how our employees helped answer their questions and make them feel at ease. This dedication is the kind of service that makes our efficient, highly trained, and resilient team among the best in the industry.

While you read this year’s report on your water quality, please keep in mind the essential workers who’ve worked so hard to keep our region going during a difficult time. Be sure to thank them for their commitment to the community they serve.

Stay safe, and thank you for your continued support!

Steven T. Edgemon

General Manager

Fairfax Water

6

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

UNDERSTANDING YOUR WATER QUALITY

HOW IS MY WATER QUALITY?

Your water quality is excellent. As a Fairfax Water customer, you drink water that consistently surpasses all federal and state standards. Of the 286 compounds we tested for, very few were found in our drinking water. Those we found were in negligible amounts well below the EPA’s maximum contaminant levels.

HOW IS THE WATER TESTED AND BY WHOM?

Fairfax Water’s state-certified Water Quality Laboratory performs or manages the testing required by federal and state regulations. In addition to regulatory testing, many other analyses are performed to monitor the quality of Fairfax Water’s raw water sources, water within the treatment process, and water within the distribution system. Water undergoing the treatment process is continuously monitored for pH, turbidity, coagulation efficiency, and disinfectant residuals using technologically advanced online monitoring systems. Chlorine, pH, and temperature testing are also performed at sample location sites throughout the system using portable instrumentation. The results for much of the 2020 testing are included in the tables on pages 14-25 of this report. For additional analytical reports, visit fairfaxwater.org or call 703-698-5600, TTY 711.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

7

 

How Is Your Water Treated?

Fairfax Water provides water that is treated at four treatment plants. The James J. Corbalis Jr. and the Frederick P. Griffith Jr. treatment plants are owned and operated by Fairfax Water. The Dalecarlia and McMillan treatment plants, part of the Washington Aqueduct, are owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. All four plants use advanced technologies and practices in drinking water treatment, which is the process of cleaning raw water to make it safe for you to drink. When untreated water enters the treatment plant, coagulants are added to cause small particles to adhere to one another, become heavy, and settle in a sedimentation basin.

The water is then filtered through carbon and sand to remove any remaining fine particles. It is disinfected with chlorine to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. A corrosion inhibitor is added to help prevent leaching of lead and copper that might be in household plumbing. Fluoride is added to protect teeth. Powdered activated carbon and potassium permanganate may also be added to the treatment process to remove taste and odor-causing compounds. In addition to these treatment steps, the Corbalis and Griffith plants use ozone to further reduce odors and organic material.

THE WATER TREATMENT PROCESS

Throughout this report, you will find many references to water in different stages of the treatment process.

Raw Water Source

Process

Finished Water

Distribution

Water in its natural

Water at various

Water leaving the

Treated water piped

state that feeds into

points during the

treatment plant

from our facilities

our treatment plants.

treatment process.

for distribution or

to your home or

 

 

storage.

business.

NOTE ABOUT MEETINGS OF THE FAIRFAX WATER BOARD

Fairfax Water’s Board typically meets the first and third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Board room of the Fairfax Water offices at 8570 Executive Park Avenue in Fairfax. Notices of public hearings and other opportunities for public participation are posted in the lobby and on the website at fairfaxwater.org.

If you plan to attend a meeting or need more information, contact Fairfax Water at 703-289-6029, TTY 711, to confirm the date and time for the meeting.

8

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

FINDING YOUR WATER QUALITY

This water quality report provides information for all customers whose drinking water is provided by Fairfax Water. Our raw water comes from two sources and is treated at four treatment plants. You can use the map shown here to determine where your water comes from and what water quality data applies to your drinking water.

Note the color of the map in the area where you live. Use this color coding throughout the report to identify the information that relates to your drinking water. If you are still uncertain which service area is yours, or if you have additional questions, visit fairfaxwater.org or call 703-698-5800, TTY 711.

Customers in this service area receive water from the Potomac River that is treated at the Dalecarlia and McMillan water treatment plants, part of the Washington Aqueduct system, which are owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. See report on page 22.

Customers in this service area receive water from the Potomac River that is treated at the Dalecarlia and McMillan water treatment plants, part of the Washington Aqueduct system, which are owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. See report on page 18.

Customers in this service area receive water from the Potomac River and Occoquan Reservoir that is treated at the James J. Corbalis Jr.

or Frederick P. Griffith Jr. treatment plants, which are owned and operated by Fairfax Water. See report on page 14.

This report covers contaminants as required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For information on additional measurements, please refer to the “additional data” links on each of the service area pages.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

9

 

INFORMATION ABOUT SOURCE (RAW) WATER

SOURCES OF DRINKING WATER

The sources of all drinking water, both tap water and bottled water, include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and groundwater. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material. It can also pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. Contaminants that could be present in source water include:

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

SOURCES OF YOUR WATER

Fairfax Water draws raw water from two primary sources: the Potomac River and the Occoquan Reservoir, which is fed by the Occoquan River. The Corbalis, Dalecarlia, and McMillan treatment plants treat water from the Potomac River. The Frederick P. Griffith Jr. Treatment Plant treats water from the Occoquan Reservoir. The four facilities that treat your water feed an interconnected distribution system.

SOURCE WATER ASSESSMENT AND PROTECTION

Under the provisions of the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, states are required to develop comprehensive source- water assessment programs that meet the following requirements:

  • Identify watersheds that supply public tap water.
  • Provide an inventory of contaminants present in the watershed.
  • Assess susceptibility to contamination in the watershed.

Source-water assessments for the watersheds are conducted by the Virginia Department of Health. The assessment consists of maps of the evaluated watershed area, an inventory of known land-use activities, and documentation of any known source-water contamination within the last five years. Based on the criteria developed by the VDH, the Potomac River and the Occoquan Reservoir were determined to be of high susceptibility to contamination. This determination is consistent with the state’s finding for other surface waters, such as rivers, lakes, and streams, throughout Virginia. A secure version of the assessment report is available by visiting our website at fairfaxwater.org or by calling Fairfax Water at 703-698-5600, TTY 711.

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 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, TTY 711. The EPA has also completed a source water assessment that can be found at bit.ly/3dAYMFH.

10

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

REDUCING EXPOSURE TO LEAD

Fairfax Water’s distribution system does not contain lead pipe because we have made an extensive effort to identify and replace any lead service connections in the older areas of our system. Depending on when it was constructed, your home’s plumbing may contain lead. The level of lead in water can increase when the water stands in contact with lead-based plumbing. Keep reading for important information about safe lead levels and how to reduce your exposure to lead.

FAIRFAX WATER’S SOURCES

The EPA has established an action level for lead in water of 15 parts per billion (ppb). When lead testing is performed as required by the EPA, 90% of the samples must contain less than 15 ppb. This is usually referred to as the 90th percentile results being less than 15 ppb.

The action level was not designed to measure health risks from water represented by individual samples. Rather, it is a statistical trigger value that, if exceeded, could require more treatment, public education, and possibly lead service line replacement where such lines exist. Fairfax Water does not have any lead service lines in its system.

Fairfax Water has been testing for lead in accordance with the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule since 1992 and has regularly tested below the action level established in the rule. The next EPA- required monitoring will be conducted in 2023 for the “Legacy Service Areas” and in late summer 2021 for the Arlington special service area.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

11

 

WHERE DOES LEAD IN DRINKING WATER COME FROM?

The Potomac River and the Occoquan Reservoir (Fairfax Water’s sources) do not contain lead. In 1986, lead was banned from use in pipe and solder in home construction. In older homes where lead is present in pipe and solder connections, lead can dissolve into the water after the water sits for long periods. Some household plumbing components may contain a small amount of lead and can contribute to lead concentrations at the tap. Fairfax Water adds a phosphate-based corrosion inhibitor during the treatment process to slow this dissolution process. For more information on lead in your water, visit our website: fairfaxwater.org.

WHAT CAN I DO IN MY HOME TO REDUCE EXPOSURE TO LEAD IN MY WATER?

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. Fairfax Water is responsible for providing high- quality drinking water but cannot control the materials used in plumbing components in home construction.

If you are concerned about lead in your water, following these tips can help minimize the potential for lead exposure.

  1. Use only fresh, cold water for cooking and making baby formula.
  2. When your water has been sitting for several hours, flush your tap for 30 seconds to two minutes until the water becomes colder or until it reaches a steady temperature before using the water for drinking or cooking.
  3. Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will not reduce lead.
  4. Some people choose to install a filter in their home. If you choose a water filter, follow these three rules:
    • Choose a filter designed for the specific filtration desired (chlorine, lead, Cryptosporidium, etc.).
    • Make sure the filter is approved by NSF International (nsf.org).
    • Maintain the filter as directed.
  5. Test your water for lead. For information about lead level testing, call the Fairfax Water Customer Service Department at 703-698-5800, TTY 711.
  6. Regularly clean your faucet aerator. This removes particles from your household plumbing that could contain lead.
  7. Consider buying low-lead fixtures. Look for fixtures with the lowest lead content. Visit nsf.org to learn more.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In addition to the tips above, information about lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure can be found at epa.gov/safewater/lead or by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791, TTY 711.

12

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

UNDERSTANDING WATER QUALITY TEST RESULTS

In general, drinking water standards are regulated by a maximum contaminant level (MCL) or a treatment technique (TT). For parameters with an MCL, the utility must sample at the required frequency, and results must be below the MCL. Depending on the parameter, the MCL could apply to individual results, an average of all results in a calendar year, or an average of all results in a calendar year for a specific site.

For parameters with a TT, the utility must sample at the required frequency and is required to take action (such as a change in treatment) if specified conditions are not met. Specified conditions vary per regulation. For instance, the TT for turbidity requires action to be taken if the percentage of filtered water turbidity results that are less than 0.3 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) falls below 95%. If this were to occur, the utility must perform corrective action until the specified conditions are met.

In the water quality test results on pages 14 - 25 and elsewhere in this report, you may find terms and abbreviations you are not familiar with. On the next page is a quick reference guide to help you better understand unfamiliar terms and abbreviations.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM THE ENVIRONMENTAL

PROTECTION AGENCY

Drinking Water and People With Weakened Immune Systems

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immunocompromised persons such as those with cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy, those who have undergone organ transplants, those with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders; some elderly; and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. If you are in this at-risk group, you should seek advice about drinking water from your health care provider. The EPA and the Centers for Disease Control guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

13

 

KEY TERMINOLOGY AND ABBREVIATIONS

90th percentile – Represents the highest value found out of 90% of the samples taken in a representative group. If the 90th percentile is greater than the action level, it will trigger a treatment or additional requirements that a water system must follow.

AL or action level – The concentration of a contaminant that, if exceeded, requires a water system to carry out an additional treatment or other action.

LRAA or locational running annual average – An ongoing annual average calculation of data at one specific location; not based on individual result.

MCL or maximum contaminant level – 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.

MCLG or maximum contaminant level goal – 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.

MRDL or maximum residual disinfectant level – The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water.

MRDLG or maximum residual disinfectant level goal – The level of a disinfectant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health.

NA or not applicable – Does not apply to this subject or in this scenario.

ND or non-detectA level at which there is an inability to detect an analyte because it is indistinguishable from the background signal.

NTU or nephelometric turbidity units – A measure of cloudiness or haziness of water.

pCi/L or picocuries per liter – Radioactivity concentration unit.

ppb or parts per billion – One ppb corresponds to one penny in $10,000,000.

ppm or parts per million – One ppm corresponds to one penny in $10,000.

QRAA or quarterly running annual average – An ongoing annual average calculation of data from the most recent four quarters.

  1. or treatment technique – A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water.

14

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

2020 WATER QUALITY TABLES

FAIRFAX WATER CUSTOMERS IN THE LEGACY AND CITY OF FAIRFAX SERVICE AREAS

The Water Quality Laboratory at Fairfax Water monitors for more than 286 different parameters, from alkalinity to zinc! Some of the monitoring is required for regulatory purposes, some for process and emerging technology, and even more for customer information. In 2020, some 43,000 data points were gathered from 11,000 samples of water for these 286 parameters. The tables on pages 15-17 show the results of the monitoring that is required by state and federal regulations. The monitoring was conducted for the Griffith and Corbalis water treatment plants between January 1 and December 31, 2020, unless otherwise noted.

For more water quality information, visit the Fairfax Water website at fairfaxwater.org/ water-quality.

Customers in this service area receive water from the Potomac River and Occoquan Reservoir that is treated at the James J. Corbalis Jr. or Frederick P. Griffith Jr. treatment plants, which are owned and operated by Fairfax Water.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

15

 

SUMMARY OF FINISHED WATER CHARACTERISTICS

 

Ideal Goal

Highest Level

Range

 

 

Components

Allowed

(Individual

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(EPA MCLG*)

 

(EPA MCL*)

Results)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barium (ppm)

2

2

0.026 - 0.042

No

Discharge of drilling wastes; discharge

from metal refineries; erosion from natural

 

 

 

 

 

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beta/photon particles

0

50

ND - 4.78

No

Decay of natural and man-made deposits

(pCi/L) 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Radium 226/228

0

5

ND - 0.19

No

Decay of natural and man-made deposits

(pCi/L ) 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Water additive that promotes strong

Fluoride (ppm)

4

4

0.1 - 0.8

No

teeth; erosion of natural deposits;

discharge from fertilizer and aluminum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

factories

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nitrite [as Nitrogen]

 

 

 

 

Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from

1

1

ND - 0.013

No

septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural

(ppm)

 

 

 

 

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nitrate [as Nitrogen]

 

 

 

 

Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from

10

10

0.57 - 1.45

No

septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural

(ppm)

 

 

 

 

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Erosion of natural deposits; Runoff from

Sodium (ppm)2

NA

NA

9.2 - 27.8

NA

road deicing chemicals; Discharge from

industrial sources; Wastewater treatment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

plant effluent

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uranium (ppb) 1

0

30

ND - 0.09

No

Erosion of natural deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

  1. Results for beta/photon emitters, Radium 226/228, and uranium were below the minimum detection limits prescribed in the EPA Consumer Confidence Rule as stated in 40 CFR 141.151 (d) and are not required for CCR reporting; however, Fairfax Water follows laboratory convention for reporting radiological sample results to the laboratory detection limit.
  2. There are no regulatory State or Federal limits established for this parameter.

Total Organic

Carbon

Treatment Technique

Range (Monthly

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(TT) 3

Ratio QRAA)

 

 

 

 

Monthly ratio

1.1 - 1.6

No

Naturally present in the

QRAA > 1

environment

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total organic carbon has no health effects; however it does provide a medium for the formation of disinfection byproducts. These by-products include trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids.

3 Compliance is based upon a quarterly running annual average (QRAA) of the monthly ratios of actual total organic carbon removal between the source water and the treated water in a calendar year (not based on an individual result).

16

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

Turbidity

Highest Level

Highest Individual

 

Common Sources in

Allowed

Violation

Result for Year

Drinking Water

(EPA MCL*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 NTU

0.28

No

Soil runoff

 

 

 

 

Treatment Technique

Lowest Monthly %

 

 

of Samples Meeting

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(TT)

≤0.3 NTU Limit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turbidity of filtered water

100%

No

 

must be ≤ 0.3 NTU in

Soil runoff

95% or more samples

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turbidity levels are measured during the treatment process after the water has been filtered but before disinfection.

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

E. coli

Ideal

Highest Level Allowed

Number of Positive

 

 

4

Common Sources in

Goal (EPA

E.coli samples this

Violation

Assessment Required

(EPA MCL*)4

Drinking Water

MCLG)*

year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repeat sample is E.coli positive

 

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

 

 

Routine sample is E.coli positive

 

 

 

 

 

 

followed by repeat sample that is

 

 

 

 

 

 

total coliform positive

 

 

 

 

 

 

OR

Routine = 0

 

 

 

Human and animal

0

System fails to take all required

 

No

No

 

 

 

fecal waste

 

repeat samples following E.coli

Repeat = 0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

positive routine sample

 

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

 

 

System fails to analyze for E.coli

 

 

 

 

 

 

when any repeat sample tested

 

 

 

 

 

 

positive for total coliform

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 If an E. coli MCL violation occurs, an assessment to determine the cause would be performed and corrective action taken.

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

Metals

Action Level §

90th Percentile

Number of Sites

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

Result

§

Above Action Level §

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corrosion of household plumbing

Copper (ppm)

1.3

0.094

 

0

No

systems; erosion of natural

 

 

 

 

 

 

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lead (ppb)

15

1.00

 

1

No

Corrosion of household plumbing systems;

 

erosion of natural deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Refer to definitions on page 13 for full description of terms.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

17

 

 

 

 

 

Fairfax Water’s Frederick P. Griffith Jr. Water Treatment Plant

Disinfection

Ideal Goal

Highest Level

Highest

Range

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking

Byproducts

(EPA MCLG*)

Allowed

LRAA for

(Individual

Water

(EPA MCL*) 5

All Sites

Results)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Trihalomethanes

0

LRAA = 80

44.4

8.1 - 75.9

No

Byproduct of drinking water

(ppb)

disinfection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Haloacetic Acids (5)

0

LRAA = 60

31.9

3.0 - 54.1

No

Byproduct of drinking water

(ppb)

disinfection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Compliance is based on site-specific locational running annual averages (LRAAs) (not based upon an individual result).

Total Chlorine (ppm)

Ideal Goal

Highest Level

Highest

Range

 

 

Allowed

(Individual

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(EPA MRDLG)

QRAA

(EPA MRDL) 5

Results)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.0

QRAA = 4.0

2.9

1.0 - 4.0

No

Water additive used to control

microbes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Compliance is based on a quarterly running annual average (QRAA) of all the regulatory chlorine results in a calendar year (not based on an individual result).

18

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

2020 WATER QUALITY TABLES

FAIRFAX WATER CUSTOMERS IN THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH SERVICE AREA

Even though you are a Fairfax Water customer, your water is supplied by the Washington Aqueduct Division of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The tables on pages 19-21 show the results of the monitoring that is performed by the Washington Aqueduct and Fairfax Water as required by state and federal regulations. Unless otherwise noted, the monitoring was conducted between January 1 and December 31, 2020.

For more information about your water quality, visit nab.usace.army.mil/Missions/Washington- Aqueduct/Water-Quality/.

Customers in this service area receive water from the Potomac River that is treated at the McMillan and Dalecarlia water treatment plants, part of the Washington Aqueduct system, which is owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

19

 

SUMMARY OF FINISHED WATER CHARACTERISTICS

Components

Ideal Goal

Highest Level

Range

 

 

Allowed

(Individual

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(EPA MCLG*)

 

(EPA MCL*)

Results)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Erosion of natural deposits; runoff

Arsenic (ppb)

0

10

ND - 0.4

No

from orchards; runoff from glass

 

 

 

 

 

and electronics production wastes

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barium (ppm)

 

 

 

 

Discharge of drilling wastes;

2

2

0.03 - 0.05

No

discharge from metal refineries;

 

 

 

 

 

erosion from natural deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beta/photon particles

0

50

ND - 4

 

Decay of natural and man-made

(pCi/L) 1

No

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Radium 226/228

0

5

ND - 4

No

Decay of natural and man-made

(pCi/L) 1

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Water additive that promotes strong

Fluoride (ppm)

4

4

0.6 - 0.8

No

teeth; erosion of natural deposits;

 

discharge from fertilizer and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

aluminum factories

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross Alpha Particles

0

15

ND - 6.9

No

Decay of natural and man-made

pCi/L

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nitrate [as Nitrogen]

 

 

 

 

Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching

10

10

0.5 - 2.0

No

from septic tanks; sewage; erosion of

(ppm)

 

 

 

 

natural deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Erosion of natural deposits; Runoff from

Sodium (ppm)2

NA

NA

12 - 43

NA

road deicing chemicals; Discharge from

industrial sources; Wastewater treatment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

plant effluent

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

  1. Results for atrazine, beta/photon emitters, and uranium were below the minimum detection limits prescribed in the EPA Consumer Confidence Rule as stated in 40 CFR 141.151 (d) and are not required for CCR reporting; however, Fairfax Water follows laboratory convention for reporting radiological sample results to the laboratory detection limit.
  2. There are no regulatory State or Federal limits established for this parameter.

Total Organic

Carbon

Treatment Technique

Range (QRAA of

Violation

Common Sources in

(TT) 3

Monthly Ratio)

Drinking Water

Monthly Ratio QRAA >1

1.2 - 1.4

No

Naturally present in the environment

 

 

 

 

Total organic carbon has no health effects; however, it provides a medium for the formation of disinfection byproducts. These byproducts include trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids.

3 Compliance is based on a quarterly running annual average (QRAA) of the monthly ratios of actual total organic carbon removal between the source water and the treated water in a calendar year (not based on an individual result).

20

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

Turbidity

Highest Level

Highest Individual

 

 

Allowed

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

Result for Year

(EPA MCL*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 NTU

0.15

No

Soil runoff

 

 

 

 

Treatment Technique

Lowest Monthly %

 

 

of Samples Meeting

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(TT)

≤0.3 NTU Limit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turbidity of filtered

 

 

 

water must be ≤0.3

100%

No

Soil runoff

NTU in 95% or more

 

 

 

samples

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turbidity levels are measured during the treatment process after the water has been filtered but before disinfection.

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

Washington Aqueduct Failure to Comply with Turbidity Monitoring Requirements

We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. For 17 hours on June 24-25, 2020, Washington Aqueduct did not complete all monitoring for turbidity on 1 of its 48 filters, and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water during that time. Concurrent monitoring of all other processes and turbidity instruments showed no problems. During those 17 hours, the overall turbidity of treated water from all filters remained within allowable limits.

This is not an emergency and you do not need to take any action. Washington Aqueduct has improved its procedures to prevent a similar situation from recurring.

E. coli

Ideal

 

Number of

 

 

 

Goal

Highest Level Allowed

 

Assessment

Common Sources in

Positive E.coli

Violation

(EPA

(EPA MCL)*

Required 4

Drinking Water

samples this year

 

MCLG*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repeat sample is E. coli positive

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

 

Routine sample is E. coli

 

 

 

 

 

positive followed by Repeat

 

 

 

 

 

sample that is Total Coliform

 

 

 

 

 

positive

Routine = 0

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

Human and animal fecal

0

 

No

No

System fails to take all required

 

waste

 

Repeat = 0

 

 

 

repeat samples following E. coli

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

positive routine sample

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

 

System fails to analyze for E.

 

 

 

 

 

coli when any repeat sample

 

 

 

 

 

tested positive for total coliform

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 If an E. coli MCL violation occurs, an assessment to determine the cause would be performed and corrective action taken.

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

 

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metals

Action

90th Percentile

Number of Sites

Violation

Common Sources in

 

Level §

Result §

Above Action Level §

Drinking Water

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corrosion of household

 

Copper (ppm)

1.3

0.094

0

No

plumbing systems; erosion of

 

 

 

 

 

 

natural deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corrosion of household

 

Lead (ppb)

15

1.00

1

No

plumbing systems; erosion of

 

 

 

 

 

 

natural deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

§ Refer to definition on page 13 for full description of terms.

Disinfection

 

Highest

 

Highest

Range

 

 

Ideal Goal

Level

 

 

Common Sources in

 

LRAA for

(Individual

Violation

Byproducts

(EPA MCLG*)

Allowed

 

Drinking Water

 

All Sites

Results)

 

 

 

(EPA MCL*)

5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Trihalomethanes

0

LRAA = 80

 

44.4

8.1 - 75.9

No

Byproduct of drinking water

(ppb)

 

disinfection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Haloacetic Acids

0

LRAA = 60

 

31.9

3.0 - 54.1

No

Byproduct of drinking water

(5) (ppb)

 

disinfection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

5 Compliance is based upon site-specific locational running annual averages (LRAAs) (not based on an individual result).

Total Chlorine (ppm)

Ideal Goal

Highest Level

Highest

Range

 

Common Sources in

Allowed

(Individual

Violation

(EPA MRDLG)

QRAA

Drinking Water

(EPA MRDL) 6

Results)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.0

QRAA = 4.0

2.9

1.0 - 4.0

No

Water additive used to control

microbes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Compliance is based on a quarterly running annual average (QRAA) of all the regulatory chlorine results in a calendar year (not based on an individual result).

22

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

2020 WATER QUALITY TABLES

FAIRFAX WATER CUSTOMERS IN THE ARLINGTON SPECIAL SERVICE AREA

Even though you are a Fairfax Water customer, your water is supplied by the Washington Aqueduct Division of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The tables on pages 22-25 show the results of the monitoring that is performed by the Washington Aqueduct and Fairfax Water as required by state and federal regulations. Unless otherwise noted, the monitoring was conducted between January 1 and December 31, 2020.

For more information about your water quality, visit nab.usace.army.mil/Missions/Washington- Aqueduct/Water-Quality/.

SUMMARY OF FINISHED WATER CHARACTERISTICS

Components

Ideal Goal

Highest Level

Range

 

 

Allowed

(Individual

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(EPA MCLG*)

 

(EPA MCL*)

Results)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discharge of drilling wastes;

Barium (ppm)

2

2

0.03 - 0.05

No

discharge from metal refineries;

 

 

 

 

 

erosion from natural deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beta/photon particles

0

50

ND - 4.0

No

Decay of natural and man-made

(pCi/L) 1

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Radium 226/228

0

5

ND - 4.0

No

Decay of natural and man-made

(pCi/L)

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Water additive that promotes strong

Fluoride (ppm)

4

4

0.06 - 0.8

No

teeth; erosion of natural deposits;

discharge from fertilizer and aluminum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

factories

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross Alpha Particles

0

15

ND - 6.9

No

Decay of natural and man-made

(pCi/L)

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nitrate [as Nitrogen]

10

10

 

 

Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from

0.5 - 2.0

No

septic tanks, sewage; erosion of natural

(ppm)

 

 

 

 

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sodium (ppm)2

NA

NA

12 - 43

NA

Erosion of natural deposits; Runoff from road

deicing chemicals; Discharge from industrial

 

 

 

 

 

sources; Wastewater treatment plant effluent

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

  1. Results for beta/photon emitters, radium 226/228, and uranium were below the minimum detection limits prescribed in the EPA Consumer Confidence Rule as stated in 40 CFR 141.151 (d) and are not required for CCR reporting; however, Fairfax Water follows laboratory convention for reporting radiological sample results to the laboratory detection limit.
  2. There are no regulatory State or Federal limits established for this parameter.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

23

 

Customers in this service area receive water from the Potomac River that is treated at the Dalecarlia and McMillan water treatment plants, part of the Washington Aqueduct system, which is owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Turbidity

Highest Level Allowed

Highest Individual

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(EPA MCL*)

Result for Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 NTU

0.07

No

Soil runoff

 

 

 

 

Treatment Technique

Lowest Monthly % of

 

 

Samples Meeting ≤0.3

Violation

Common Sources in Drinking Water

(TT)

NTU Limit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turbidity of filtered

 

 

 

water must be ≤0.3

100%

No

Soil runoff

NTU in 95% or more

 

 

 

samples

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCL applies to an individual result.

Turbidity levels are measured during the treatment process after the water has been filtered, but before disinfection.

Washington Aqueduct Failure to Comply with Turbidity Monitoring Requirements

We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. For 17 hours on June 24-25, 2020, Washington Aqueduct did not complete all monitoring for turbidity on 1 of its 48 filters, and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water during that time. Concurrent monitoring of all other processes and turbidity instruments showed no problems. During those 17 hours, the overall turbidity of treated water from all filters remained within allowable limits.

This is not an emergency and you do not need to take any action. Washington Aqueduct has improved its procedures to prevent a similar situation from recurring.

24

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

E. coli

Ideal

 

Number of

 

 

 

Goal

Highest Level Allowed

 

 

Common Sources

Positive E.coli

Violation

Assessment Required 2

(EPA

(EPA MCL)*

in Drinking Water

samples this year

 

 

MCLG)*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repeat sample is E. coli positive

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

 

Routine sample is E. coli

 

 

 

 

 

positive followed by repeat

 

 

 

 

 

sample that is total coliform

 

 

 

 

 

positive

Routine = 0

 

 

Human and

 

OR

 

 

0

 

No

No

animal fecal

System fails to take all required

 

 

Repeat = 0

 

 

waste

 

repeat samples following E. coli

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

positive routine sample

 

 

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

 

System fails to analyze for E.

 

 

 

 

 

coli when any repeat sample

 

 

 

 

 

tested positive for total coliform

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 If an E. coli MCL violation occurs, an assessment to determine the cause would be performed and corrective action taken.

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL applies to an individual result.

Metals

Action

90th Percentile

Number of Sites Above

Violation

Common Sources in

Level

§

Result §

Action Level §

Drinking Water

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corrosion of household plumbing

Copper (ppm) 3

1.3

 

0.021

0

No

systems; erosion of natural

 

 

 

 

 

 

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corrosion of household plumbing

Lead (ppb) 3

15

 

0.27

0

No

systems; erosion of natural

 

 

 

 

 

 

deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Refer to definitions on page 13 for full description of terms

3 As granted by the state, Fairfax Water is on reduced monitoring for these parameters based upon historical results. The results above are taken from the most recent monitoring period in 2018.

Disinfection

Ideal Goal

Highest

Highest

Range

 

Common Sources in

Level

 

LRAA for

(Individual

Violation

Byproducts

(EPA MCLG*)

Allowed

Drinking Water

all sites

Results)

 

 

 

(EPA MCL*) 4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Trihalomethanes

0

LRAA = 80

45.5

23.3 -

No

Byproduct of drinking water disinfection

(ppb)

72.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Haloacetic Acids

0

LRAA = 60

34.2

14.2 -

No

Byproduct of drinking water disinfection

(5) (ppb)

51.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Unless otherwise specified, MCLG and MCL apply to an individual result.

4 Compliance is based upon site-specific locational running annual averages (LRAAs) (not based upon an individual result).

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

25

 

Total Chlorine

(ppm)

Ideal

 

 

Range

 

Common Sources in

Goal

Highest Level Allowed

 

 

Highest QRAA

(Individual

Violation

(EPA

(EPA MRDL) 5

Drinking Water

 

Results)

 

MRDLG)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.0

QRAA = 4

2.9

1.9 - 3.5

No

Water additive used to

control microbes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Compliance is based on a quarterly running annual average (QRAA) of all the regulatory chlorine results in a calendar year (not based on an individual result).

Total Organic

Carbon

Treatment Technique

Range (QRAA of

Violation

Common Sources in

(TT) 6

Monthly Ratio)

Drinking Water

 

 

 

 

Monthly Ratio QRAA >1

1.2 - 1.3

No

Naturally present in the

environment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total organic carbon has no health effects; however, it provides a medium for the formation of disinfection byproducts.

These byproducts include trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids.

6 Compliance is based upon a quarterly running annual average (QRAA) of the monthly ratios of actual total organic carbon removal between the source water and the treated water in a calendar year (not based on an individual result).

Potomac River

26

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

2020 Cryptosporidium Monitoring Statement

Cryptosporidium is a microbial pathogen sometimes found in surface water throughout the United States. Although filtration removes Cryptosporidium, the most commonly used filtration methods cannot guarantee 100 percent removal. Fairfax Water consistently maintains its filtration process in accordance with regulatory guidelines to maximize removal efficiency. Our monitoring indicates the occasional presence of these organisms in the source water. Current test methods do not allow us to determine whether the organisms are dead or if they are capable of causing disease.

Ingestion of Cryptosporidium may cause cryptosporidiosis, an abdominal infection. Symptoms of infection include nausea, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Most healthy individuals can overcome the disease within a few weeks. However, immuno-compromised people, infants and small children, and the elderly are at greater risk of developing life-threatening illness. We encourage immuno-compromised individuals to consult their doctor regarding appropriate precautions to take to avoid infection.

Cryptosporidium must be ingested in order to cause disease. It may be spread through means other than drinking water, such as other people, animals, water, swimming pools, fresh food, soils and any surface that has not been sanitized after exposure to feces.

Fairfax Water has completed monitoring the Potomac River and Occoquan Reservoir for compliance with Round 2 of the EPA Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2ESWTR Round 2). The EPA created this rule to provide for increased protection against microbial pathogens, such as Cryptosporidium, in public water systems that use surface water sources. Fairfax Water’s LT2ESWTR Round 2 monitoring program began in April 2015 and involved the collection of one sample from water treatment plant sources

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

27

 

each month for a period of two years. Monitoring for compliance with the LT2ESWTR Round 2 was completed in March 2017.

Under the LT2ESWTR Round 2, the average Cryptosporidium concentration determines whether additional treatment measures are needed. A mean Cryptosporidium concentration of 0.075 oocysts/Liter triggers additional water treatment measures. Fairfax Water’s raw water Cryptosporidium concentrations were below this threshold. Results for LT2ESWTR Round 2 monitoring for the period of 2015-2017 are as follows:

LEGACY AND CITY OF FAIRFAX SERVICE AREAS

Source (Before Treatment)

Mean Cryptosporidium

Final Bin Assignment Under

concentration (oocysts/Liter)

LT2ESWTR Round 2

 

 

 

 

Potomac River

0.000

Bin 1

(no additional treatment needed)

 

 

Occoquan Reservoir

0.007

Bin 1

(no additional treatment needed)

 

 

CITY OF FALLS CHURCH AND ARLINGTON SPECIAL SERVICE AREAS

Cryptosporidium was monitored in the source water monthly in 2020 from January to November. Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in two samples collected at the Great Falls Intakes in January and February 2020, with both samples having a concentration of 0.186 oocysts/L. Based upon the system- specific requirements, no additional treatment measures were required at the Washington Aqueduct water treatment plants.

28

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

2020 UNREGULATED CONTAMINANT MONITORING RULE (UCMR 4) DATA

The 1996 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) require that once every five years, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issue a new list of no more than 30 unregulated contaminants to be monitored by public water systems (PWSs). The Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) provides EPA and other interested parties with scientifically valid data on the occurrence of contaminants in drinking water. This national survey is one of the primary sources of information on occurrence and levels of exposure that the Agency uses to develop regulatory decisions for contaminants in the public drinking water supply.

The “Revisions to the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 4) for Public Water Systems and Announcement of Public Meeting” was published in the Federal Register on December 20, 2016 (81 FR 92666). UCMR 4 monitoring began in 2018 and concluded in 2020. The full scope of the monitoring includes monitoring for a total of 30 chemical contaminants: 10 cyanotoxins (nine cyanotoxins and one cyanotoxin group) and 20 additional contaminants (two metals, eight pesticides plus one pesticide manufacturing byproduct, three brominated haloacetic acid [HAA] disinfection byproducts groups, three alcohols, and three semivolatile organic chemicals [SVOCs]).

WHAT ARE THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH BENEFITS?

The UCMR program provides the EPA and other interested parties with nationally representative data on the occurrence of particular contaminants in drinking water, the number of people potentially being exposed and an estimate of the levels of that exposure. In accordance with Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA will consider the occurrence data from UCMR 4 and other sources, along with the peer reviewed health effects assessments, to support a regulatory determination on whether to initiate the process to develop a national primary drinking water regulation.

For more information on UCMR 4, visit EPA’s UCMR web page (epa.gov/dwucmr) or call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

29

 

UNREGULATED COMPONENTS DETECTED IN 2020 UCMR 4 MONITORING

Components (ppb)

Average

Minimum

Maximum

Use or Environmental Source

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Naturally occurring element; commercially available

 

 

 

 

in combination with other elements and minerals;

Manganese

0.52

ND

3.10

used in steel production, fertilizer, batteries,

 

 

 

 

and fireworks; drinking water and wastewater

 

 

 

 

treatment chemical; essential nutrient

 

 

 

 

 

Potomac River

30

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

 

Facts About Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl

Substances (PFAS)

PFAS are a group of over 6,000 man-made chemicals that have been manufactured and used in home consumer products such as carpets, clothing, food packaging, and cookware since the 1940s. Two of these compounds—Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)—have been the most extensively produced and studied, and there is evidence that exposure to elevated levels of PFAS can lead to adverse health outcomes in humans.

To learn more and view Fairfax Water’s most recent PFAS results, visit fairfaxwater.org/water- quality/facts-about-pfas.

2021 Annual Water Quality Report

31

 

Be Winter Salt Smart:

Learn How To Protect Our Source Water

What’s the problem?

In the winter, salt keeps us safe while we are on the move, but it also leads to higher levels of salt in the region’s drinking water supply, including the Potomac River and Occoquan Reservoir. Learn more and be winter salt smart!

What is winter salt?

Winter salt is rock salt (sodium chloride) or ice melt (a blend of sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, and other salt). These materials are used in the winter to prevent icing of sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways.

What are the benefits of winter salt use?

  • Causes fewer incidents of slip and fall injuries.
  • Reduces number of vehicle crashes.
  • Enables businesses, government, and social services to continue with minimal interruption.

What are the downsides of its use?

  • Salt on impervious surfaces (sidewalks, parking lots, roads, etc.) is eventually washed into storm drains, creeks, and rivers. This results in higher concentrations of salt in the region’s drinking water sources: the Potomac River and Occoquan Reservoir.
  • Salt causes corrosion to vehicles and infrastructure (roads, bridges, sidewalks, parking lots).
  • Salt increases the salinity in streams and groundwater, impacting freshwater fish and other aquatic life.

Why is increased salt in the drinking water supply a problem for water utilities?

  • Salt cannot be removed via traditional drinking water and wastewater treatment processes​.
  • It is corrosive to plumbing​.
  • It has potential health impacts for those on low-sodium diets.

What are Fairfax Water and other agencies doing to address this problem?

The Virginia Salt Management Strategy (SaMS) was established by a diverse group of stakeholders (including Fairfax Water) and coordinated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

SaMS will provide recommendations for improving winter practices through efficient and effective use of salt while maintaining the same levels of safety. The strategy will also offer ways to raise awareness of these impacts, show how individuals and organizations can participate, and provide guidance for monitoring and research to support action on SaMS recommendations.

In addition to SaMS, Fairfax Water will continue to monitor source water quality and work closely with the county and other agencies to analyze trends and explore solutions.

What can I do to help?

  • Shovel early. Remove snow from pavements before it turns to ice. Use salt only after snow has been cleared and only in areas needed for safety.
  • Use less. More salt does not mean more melting. A 12-ounce coffee mug of salt should be enough for a 20- foot driveway or about 10 sidewalk squares.
  • Spread evenly. Try not to distribute in clumps.
  • Watch the temps. When it is colder than 15°F, do not apply winter salt. It will not work. In those cases, consider building traction with alternatives like sand or native bird seed.

Contaminants


Fairfax County Water Authority

EWG's drinking water quality report shows results of tests conducted by the water utility and provided to the Environmental Working Group by the Virginia Department of Health - Office of Drinking Water, as well as information from the U.S. EPA Enforcement and Compliance History database (ECHO). For the latest quarter assessed by the U.S. EPA (January 2019 - March 2019), tap water provided by this water utility was in compliance with federal health-based drinking water standards.

Utility details

  • Serves: 1074422
  • Data available: 2012-2017
  • Data Source: Surface water
  • Total: 26

Contaminants That Exceed Guidelines

  • Bromate
  • Bromodichloromethane
  • Chloroform
  • Chromium (hexavalent)
  • Dibromochloromethane
  • Dichloroacetic acid
  • Nitrate
  • Nitrate and nitrite
  • Radium%2C combined (-226 & -228)
  • Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
  • Trichloroacetic acid

Other Detected Contaminants

  • Aluminum
  • Atrazine
  • Barium
  • Bromide
  • Bromoform
  • Chlorate
  • Dibromoacetic acid
  • Fluoride
  • Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
  • Molybdenum
  • Monochloroacetic acid
  • Nitrite
  • Strontium
  • Tritium
  • Vanadium

Reminder

Always take extra precautions, the water may be safe to drink when it leaves the sewage treatment plant but it may pick up pollutants during its way to your tap. We advise that you ask locals or hotel staff about the water quality. Also, note that different cities have different water mineral contents.

Sources and Resources

Layer 1
Layer 1
Layer 1
Layer 1