Water Quality Testing
The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulate public water systems. The DNR sets a strict monitoring schedule for the water utility that requires routine sampling for compliance with EPA and DNR limits on coliform bacteria, nitrates, disinfection byproducts, and lead and copper. The Village also tests quarterly for arsenic at the two wells as part of the sewer utility’s requirements for treatment plant discharge.
Safe Drinking Water Results and Water Clarity
The Village’s water is consistently within EPA and DNR limits for safe drinking water, as shown in the annual Consumer Confidence Report posted on this page, below. It is hard water, meaning it has higher levels of calcium and magnesium. It tests low for iron at the two wells, where it enters the distribution system.
While the Village’s water complies with established requirements, there are residents who experience above-average issues with water clarity. The Village Board authorized more frequent hydrant flushing where there are dead ends in the water main and additional water sampling; and approved a neighborhood water quality survey on Lake Bluff Ct. and Franklin Dr. to research how changes in utility operations impact water clarity. The Village Board’s goal is to provide the best product possible for a system this size.
Neighborhood Survey
The Village coordinated with fourteen households on Lake Bluff Ct and Franklin Dr to track water clarity daily from June 24 to July 22, 2024. During that window, the Public Works department made several operational changes and conducted periodic hydrant flushing to determine which activities, if any, impacted water clarity. The Village received a total of 328 readings from those owners, with 99% reporting no discoloration to the water.
Distribution System Testing
One owner in the survey area that has experienced more frequent discoloration reported in mid‑November 2024 that water testing at the property indicated the presence of elevated arsenic. The Public Works department in response tested samples drawn from the two wells and from eight hydrants located in different parts of the Village. Water test results were in the normal range at the wells and seven hydrants, including the hydrant closest to the affected property. One hydrant in a different area of the village tested higher in arsenic, however. Since we know water is not entering the system at elevated levels, we are continuing with additional sampling of the distribution system to better define where and when these spikes occur and determine the actions necessary to address them.
The Village Board and staff will continue to research these occurrences and any others that are reported. The quality and safety of public water is of primary importance to all of us. Please reach out if you experience an issue.
Consumer Confidence Report
Village employees work hard to maintain a safe and reliable water system, as evidenced by our monthly and annual reporting to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The Consumer Confidence Report provides results of the water testing completed by independent laboratories on behalf of the Village. We are pleased to report water quality testing confirmed the safety of our water supply, as shown on the report.
2023 Consumer Confidence Report
Lead and Copper Rule Service Line Inventory
2024 LSL Inventory Report as of 10-15-24