High quality water starts at the source, so we preserve watershed land as permanent open space, regularly inspect privately owned land in our watersheds for potential risks, and do our part to keep watershed land clean.
We protect source water through forest management plans, careful review of development proposals, implementation of an Emergency Spill Response Program, and regular clean-up efforts. Our commitments help to ensure clean water for customers also include ownership and maintenance of 6,500 acres of watershed land as permanent open space.
Information About Public Water Supply Watershed Inspections
Connecticut Water provides drinking water to over 106,000 customers or about 350,000 people in 60 communities in the state.
Our water comes from a combination of wells and reservoirs and we take a number of steps to protect those water sources and treat and monitor the water delivered to our customers.
There are approximately 4,000+ watershed properties throughout the state that Connecticut Water is required by state health department regulations to inspect.
The inspection involves a visual evaluation of properties by our watershed inspectors for any conditions that could potentially impact the water quality of the water supply.
If you have any questions, please email watershed@ctwater.com.
One of the ways that we protect our water supplies is to engage in efforts that protect and preserve land in our watersheds as open space, where they’ll be protected from development forever. Almost all of our 6,500 acres in Connecticut is dedicated open space. We invest in additional watershed acreage as it is available and beneficial to the protection of our water supply.
At Shenipsit Lake Reservoir, which is a critical water supply source for north central Connecticut, we offer recreational fishing and hiking programs open to all residents of Connecticut. Activities permitted and approved by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) on the reservoir property include a year-round hiking trail, and an April – October fishing program which is monitored daily to ensure that activities can be enjoyed by the public while not negatively impacting water quality.
We also maintain a hiking trail permitted by the Department of Public Health at our Killingworth and Kelseytown Reservoirs in Killingworth.
You can help us protect water sources in your community in a variety of ways.
Use and Dispose of Harmful Materials Properly – Don’t pour hazardous waste down the drain, on the ground or into storm sewers. A number of home products can contaminate water sources such as motor oil, paint, mothballs, household cleaners, and medicines.
Be mindful in your yard – Limit the use of pesticides or fertilizers and follow the label directions. Many contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate groundwater or run off into surface water.
Maintain your septic system – Malfunctioning septic systems can release bacteria, viruses or chemicals into aquifers and waterways. The average household system should be inspected at least every three years by a professional.
Volunteer in your community – Many community organizations host community cleanups. Take part in one or, if you can’t find one, start your own!
Learn more on the EPA website - https://www.epa.gov/sourcewaterprotection/how-can-you-help-protect-source-water