Public Notification for Copper Action Level Exceedance
Pottersville Water District - NY5600110
(July - December 2023)

Our water system recently exceeded a drinking water standard. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we are doing to correct this situation.

We routinely sample water at consumers' taps for lead and copper. First draw samples were collected from 10 homes/buildings served by the Pottersville Water District water system in November 2023. The test results show that copper was detected above the regulatory action level in 2 of these samples. The regulatory action level is based on the 90th percentile of results meaning that if more than 10% of the samples exceed the action level, steps must be taken to address the problem. The regulatory limit for copper in drinking water is 1.3 mg/1. The 90th percentile for samples collected in June was 1.39 mg/1.

We treat the water caustic soda raise the pH and add phosphate to provide corrosion control. 

New York State and federal drinking water regulations require that standard health effects information be distributed whenever a drinking water standard is exceeded. This information is presented below.

HEALTH EFFECTS OF COPPER IN DRINKING WATER

Copper is an essential nutrient, but some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over a relatively short amount of time could experience gastrointestinal distress. Some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over many years could suffer liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's Disease should consult their doctor.

The results are for first draw samples, meaning the samples are collected immediately following at least 6 hours of nonuse at a kitchen or bathroom tap. levels of copper, and lead, may be reduced by flushing your tap for several seconds, or until the water runs cold, whenever it has not been used for several hours.

If you have further questions or concerns, you can contact the New York State Department of Health Glens Falls District Office at 518-793-3893. Additional information is available on the Environmental Protection Agency website at: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/table-regulated-drinking-water-contaminants