Notice from the Water Department

During routine water sampling on August 6th, three (3) samples out of seven (7) taken from the North Reading water distribution system tested positive for total coliforms.  Total coliforms include bacteria that are naturally found in the soil, in water that has been influenced by surface water, and in human or animal waste.

Positive test results for total coliforms trigger a state requirement, and best practice, to re-test.  All of the re-tested samples tested negative.

Changes in state reporting protocols required that an assessment be conducted and reported to the state Department of Environmental Protection.  While the assessment was conducted in a timely fashion, it was erroneously not filed with the state in accordance with the regulatory requirements.  This error required the Water Department to mail to all North Reading water customers.

North Reading's water is regularly tested and meets all state and federal drinking water requirements.

For a copy of the notice that has been mailed to residents, please click here.

If you have further questions, please contact the Water Department at 978-664-6046.