Water is an essential aspect of everyone’s life- it’s used for everything from taking showers to cooking dinner to hydrating on that morning jog. However, not all water is created equal- it’s important that the water provided by utility companies is not only reliable but also of high quality. For the residents of Tacoma, this is where Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) comes into the picture.
As an integral part of the city, TPU works diligently to provide clean, safe, and reliable water to over 300,000 people in the Tacoma area. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the ins and outs of the Tacoma Public Utilities Water situation- their sources, testing and treatment processes, how they keep the community involved, and why their work is so crucial.
Where Does Tacoma’s Water Come From?
TPU’s primary water source is the Green River watershed. This watershed is a protected area, free of residential and commercial development, meaning that it’s naturally purer than many other sources [^1^]. However, even with the cleaner start, TPU still takes significant steps to assure that the water provided to the community is of the highest quality.
Testing and Treatment
To ensure the safety of the water, TPU maintains a rigorous schedule of purity testing. According to their Water Quality Report, over 20,000 tests were conducted in 2018 alone, checking for over 100 compounds and variables [^2^].
Relevant to the time of this writing, many may wonder about COVID-19 in water supplies. The World Health Organization states that the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in treated drinking water, and conventional water treatment methods, like those used by TPU, are typically successful in removing or inactivating the virus [^3^].
Community Involvement
TPU strives to keep the community involved. They provide updates about the water supply, water quality testing, and other water services through their online Water Quality Report. Residents can also check for real-time updates about the water system on TPU’s website. This ensures that everyone is informed and knows what’s happening with their city’s water supply.
The Importance of TPU’s Work
We often take clean, dependable water for granted. But the reality is, providing clean drinking water is a complex and critical public health matter. TPU’s work helps prevent the spread of disease, promotes public health, and boosts the city’s economic vitality.
By managing the water resources responsibly, TPU also plays a vital part in preserving our environment, protecting aquatic habitats, and maintaining the natural beauty of our region.
In conclusion, Tacoma’s water supply is more than just a utility- it’s a lifeline for the city’s residents, businesses, and environment. It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of TPU’s staff that the citizens of Tacoma can so easily enjoy safe and dependable water day by day.
So next time you’re enjoying a glass of water from your tap, give a thought to all the effort that goes into making sure that water is pure, safe, and right at your fingertips.
[^1^]: Tacoma Public Utilities. Overview of TPU Water: https://www.mytpu.org/water/
[^2^]: Tacoma Water Quality Report https://www.mytpu.org/wp-content/uploads/water-quality-report.pdf
[^3^]: World Health Organization. Water, Sanitation, Hygiene, and Waste Management for the COVID-19 Virus https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/water-sanitation-hygiene-and-waste-management-for-the-covid-19-virus-interim-guidance
