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ACWWA Flow Project

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1. What is the ACWWA Flow Project?

The ACWWA Flow Project is a water supply project which will serve the Arapahoe Water and Wastewater Authority (ACWWA) service area. Upon completion, it will result in an annual average delivery of 4,400 acre-feet of water (1 acre foot generally serves 2 households annually) to the ACWWA service area to supplement current water supplies. This will provide a secure and high quality water source for current and future ACWWA customers.
The components of the project are:


- Renewable water rights from the South Platte River Basin

- Regulatory water storage

- Easements, alluvial wells, storage, and delivery infrastructure to deliver water rights to the East Cherry Creek Valley (ECCV) Water Treatment Plant

- Water Treatment capacity in the ECCV Water Treatment Plant

- Additional capacity in the existing ECCV Northern Pipeline, a 48” pipeline that travels from the Barr Lake area south to the ECCV service area

- Chambers Reservoir, located at E-470 and Chambers Road

- Interconnect line to deliver water supplies from the ECCV service area to ACWWA’s service area

2. Why does ACWWA need additional water?

ACWWA’s current supply of water primarily consists of deep groundwater wells and shallow alluvial wells along Cherry Creek. There are two major components as to why ACWWA needs additional water supply.

1. Groundwater levels have been diminishing due to the mining of groundwater (pumping the groundwater faster than it is recharging). ACWWA is seeing evidence of this. Due to this issue, our current supplies may not be adequate to supply current demands over time.
2. While ACWWA has long been developing various water supplies, including renewable water rights, due to the limitations of our physical location we simply cannot find all the water supplies we need within our service area to adequately serve all ACWWA customers; hence the reason for looking beyond our borders for additional water supplies.

3. What is renewable water?

Renewable water is a source that is continuously renewed within reasonable time spans by the hydrological cycle. An example of this would be annual snowmelt from the mountains or rainfall that feeds into the Colorado rivers, which feed irrigation ditches where our water rights are located.

Groundwater connected to surface water sources could be considered renewable if it is replenished as described above. However, the Denver Basin Aquifers can be several thousand feet below ground surface where hydrologic activity does not, for practical purposes, replenish these aquifers.

4. Where is the water coming from?

The newly acquired water rights are located in irrigation ditches within the South Platte River Basin. This water will be delivered to the Beebe Draw by pipeline or exchange on the South Platte River. It will then be stored in the Beebe Draw until it is pumped out and delivered to the ECCV Water Treatment Plant for treatment and delivery to ACWWA.

5. What is the Beebe Draw?

The Beebe Draw is a shallow underground aquifer system which was once an historic stream channel of the South Platte River. It is an ideal location to store water because of its geology – filled with sand and gravel.

6. Who are the parties involved in the project?

This is a regional project that involves ACWWA working with East Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District (ECCV) and United Water and Sanitation District (United) to develop and operate the components of the project.

7. What is East Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District (ECCV) and why are we working with it on this project?

ECCV is a neighboring water district that serves a portion of the City of Centennial and unincorporated Arapahoe County. It is located northeast of the ACWWA service area. In 2004, ECCV built a large pipeline from the Barr Lake area to its service area. At that time ACWWA saw the benefit of buying capacity in this pipeline and did purchase some capacity for future use. ACWWA strongly believes in the benefits of regional projects.

Some partnerships already in place include the Joint Water Purification Plant (JWPP), a partnership between ACWWA and Cottonwood Water and Sanitation District, and the Lone Tree Creek Reuse Facility, a partnership between ACWWA and the Inverness Water and Sanitation District. For the ACWWA Flow Project, joining forces with ECCV and United allows large projects to be built that benefit all three entities for much less cost than any one entity building them on their own.

8. What is United Water and Sanitation District (United) and why are we working with it on this project?

United is a Colorado Special District in Elbert County. Its role in this transaction will be to acquire the water rights to be transferred to ACWWA and build the necessary infrastructure to deliver the water to the ECCV Water Treatment Plant. United built Chambers Reservoir, a 1,400 acre-foot water storage facility, located near Chambers Road and E-470, which will help support ACWWA's non-potable irrigaton system.

9. ACWWA already has a Water Treatment Plant. Why do we need another one?

Due to the location of ACWWA's water rights on the South Platte River, it was most practical to treat the water closer to its source, then deliver to the ACWWA service area, treated water from the Project. This treatment will compliment ACWWA's Joint Water Purification Plant.

10. I’ve read articles about the reducing groundwater levels, how does that effect ACWWA?

Groundwater levels have been decreasing in the South Metro area for many years. ACWWA has experienced these same issues with our current water resources, in the Denver Basin Aquifer. For this reason, ACWWA has developed strategies to find alternative water resources as continued use of our Denver Basin Aquifer wells will become too costly due to declining water levels.

11. I don’t like the taste of my water right now, will this project make it better?

ACWWA is well aware that some of our customers are not satisfied with the taste and / or hardness levels of our current water supply. The water supply and treatment via the ACWWA Water Flow Project will result in higher water quality that should be noticeable to our customers.

12. Would we need this project if the ACWWA service area stopped growing?

Yes, the groundwater wells in which ACWWA currently relies on for much of its water supply are a diminishing, non-renewable water source. If not even a single new user was brought into the ACWWA service area, existing customers would still need to address this issue.

13. If renewable water is so important, why didn’t ACWWA acquire some before?

ACWWA has been acquiring renewable water rights for many years. Most of these renewable water rights are on Cherry Creek and its tributaries. To acquire additional renewable water rights ACWWA had to look beyond its service area.

In doing so, other issues and costs are associated with such water rights, including delivery, storage, and even treatment, if necessary. It was to ACWWA’s advantage to wait until other entities were ready to partner on such facilities such as ECCV and United, which allowed ACWWA to take advantage of economies of scale.

14. Will the project only serve new development?

No, the renewable water derived from this project will serve the demand from existing customers as well.

15. Does the additional water from this project mean an end to watering restrictions at ACWWA?

Although the additional water rights acquired in this project will secure a long-term reliable water supply, it does not change the fact that we live in a semi-arid climate where severe droughts like what was seen in 2002 can happen.

Water supply availability and sometimes operational issues can require watering restrictions. ACWWA’s water supply will still be managed as efficiently as possible in order to keep costs down. As this project and others develop, and climactic conditions are assessed, ACWWA will evaluate the issues and make determinations as necessary.

16. When will ACWWA Customers see water from the ACWWA Flow Project?

In 2013, ACWWA started taking delivery from this Project. Currently about one-third of ACWWA's water supply comes from the ACWWA Flow Project.

17. How will this project impact my property value?

Obviously ACWWA doesn’t have direct control over property values in the area, however, with increased discussion in the legislature regarding how a secure water supply or lack thereof can impact property values, ACWWA’s ability to secure a water supply for its customers will likely reflect positively on property values.

18. Will this project help us get through a drought?

Yes, this project increases the diversification of ACWWA’s water portfolio. ACWWA will have water rights in the middle and lower South Platte River area, Cherry Creek, groundwater and multiple storage reservoirs. Since the severity of drought conditions generally vary by river basins in Colorado, having a diverse portfolio will give us the best opportunity to weather drought conditions.

19. How will this affect ACWWA’s rates and fees?

All ACWWA customer's water bills reflect a Water System Investment Fee of $26.50 per month per tap equivalent. The use of a water fee is common practice among water districts across Colorado to retire project costs.

There may be periodic rate and fee adjustments in the future, however, by securing a renewable water source now, ACWWA customers will not be exposed to the potential higher prices for renewable water acquisition in the future.

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Consumer Confidence Report

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1. Does the annual water quality report indicate we have quality water?

Yes, you can be assured that ACWWA continues to meet and / or exceed all State and Federal water quality standards as set forth by the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act and any other subsequent revisions.

2. What is a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR)?

The CCR is an annual water quality report that all community water systems are required to provide. It is based on the 1996 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act and the right-to-know provisions of that Act. Each customer of ACWWA has the opportunity to review it annually. The CCR helps them to make informed choices about the water quality they drink. The report lets the customers of ACWWA know what contaminants, if any, are in their drinking water, and how these contaminants may affect their health. Be assured that the water ACWWA provides the community meets and / or is better than all water quality standards.

3. When are the CCRs made available to the residents of ACWWA?

Every community water system is required by Federal law to provide its customers with a water quality report, also known as a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) by July 1st of each year. This report lists the regulated contaminants, if any, for that year’s sampling requirements. The results, along with the Safe Drinking Water Maximum allowable level, are always on the CCR report that you receive.

All of the water quality tests during that year’s sample period will be reported on the CCR, which include results from the previous year. Thus, the current CCR will be dated from the previous year.

4. Why would a current CCR contain results from a previous calendar year?

The reason for the report containing results from the previous year is based on the sampling requirements from the Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE), along with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some of those sampling requirements occur each month and others occur at different times of the year based on water usage and when a contaminate may be more likely to be found in the water. In order to provide a complete CCR report for the entire year, along with providing sufficient time for the public water systems to prepare the report, the CDPHE allows six months for the water provider to prepare and distribute the report to its customers.

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Enhanced Water Main Flushing (Ice Pigging)

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1. What is ice pigging?

Ice pigging is a cleaning method for potable water distribution pipelines. The method involves pumping a slurry of ice into water pipes through a hydrant. Once in the pipes, system pressure is used to push the ice slurry downstream to exit through a different hydrant.

The ice slurry cleans material on the bottoms and sides of pipes using forces up to 1,000 times greater than flushing with water alone. Ice pigging results in more effective cleaning and uses significantly less water than traditional flushing methods. Like a glacier, the ice slurry incorporates the material and biofilm on the pipe into the ice mixture rather than bulldozing it.

2. What is in the ice pig slurry? Is it safe?

The ice pig slurry is very safe. It is made up of ice, water, and table salt (NaCl). For healthy individuals, the sodium intake from water is not significant, because a much greater intake of sodium takes place from salt in the diet. Individuals on sodium restricted diet, or those on dialysis should thoroughly flush their tap water prior to drinking.

3. Do other water authorities use ice pigging?

While ice pigging is a relatively new technology many other water authorities have successfully used this technique. The technique has been widely used across Europe (where the pipes are older) and has only been used in the United States for a couple of years.

4. Why is ACWWA ice pigging instead of flushing?

Over time, naturally occurring material can build up on the inside of a water main, impacting water flow and aesthetics (taste, color, odor, etc.). ACWWA traditionally uses a flushing method to remove this material. While the flushing method is adequate for short term fixes, ice pigging is an enhanced flushing method that is more effective at removing debris. This procedure should result in less maintenance on the distribution system and a higher quality water.

5. Does ACWWA need access to my service line?

No, ice pigging only requires access to the water main line.

6. Is ACWWA digging up any pipelines?

No. Ice pigging does not require excavation. The procedure puts the ice slurry into the water main through a hydrant and it is removed through a separate downstream hydrant.

7. How many feet of pipe is ACWWA ice pigging?

ACWWA will be ice pigging approximately 65,000 feet of water main lines. Even though this is less than 10% of ACWWA’s distribution system, it will address the areas of concern.

8. When is ACWWA performing the ice pigging?

Ice pigging will be performed on different sections of the distribution system at various times during the year. Please watch for postcard and door hanger notifications for dates/times that your area will be affected.

9. How will I be notified that the ice pigging is being done on my section of the water pipeline?

ACWWA will place door hangers on your front door the day before the ice pigging is performed on your section of the water main. Initial notification will be provided to the impacted customers by postcard mailers before the work is started.

10. Will the crews be working at night or on the weekends?

No, we are planning that all work will be done during the standard working hours during the week. If needed a weekend day may be required due to unusual circumstances and notifications will be given.

11. How noisy are the machines?

The ice pigging machines are quiet and will only be at a hydrant for approximately a half hour before they move to the next spot or are done for the day.

12. What should I do to prepare for my ice pigging day?

You should be prepared to not use any water from approximately 8 am to 3 pm. That means customers should have alternate sources of drinking water and be prepared to not do the following activities: irrigation, laundry, dishwashing, or other water uses such as showering or flushing your toilets.

13. Can I use my water during the ice pigging process?

No, while your water will still flow, it could contain sediment, salt, and ice from the ice pigging process and water use should be avoided during the above time frames during the days when ACWWA’s crews are working in your area.

14. How long will I be without water?

Each customer that has their water main cleaned, will be without water for approximately 2 to 4 hours during their scheduled working day.

15. Is the water from my tap safe to drink during the ice pigging procedure?

The water is safe to drink, but it will be aesthetically undesirable due to discoloration and potential elevated sodium levels.

16. What happens if I turn on my water while ACWWA is ice pigging?

The water coming out of your tap could be discolored, salty, and filled with sediment. It is recommended that you do not use tap water during this time.

17. Do I have to do anything special after the ice pigging procedure is complete?

Customers should run cold water through one tap (preferably the tap furthest away from the street) for 2 to 3 minutes after the completion of the procedure, prior to using the water for drinking or cooking. If a salty taste or discoloration is detected, run your tap for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

18. Is my water safe to drink when the procedure is complete?

Yes, but before using your water, you should follow the procedure described in the previous question. After completing your in home flushing procedure, the water should be free of ice, salt, and sediment.

19. How often will ACWWA be using this technique?

ACWWA considers ice pigging a long-term maintenance technique that may be used every 10 to 15 years on an as needed basis.

20. What if my water is discolored after ice pigging?

After ice pigging activities, you may experience slightly colored or cloudy water coming from your tap. This is normal and does not pose a health hazard. You can reduce the cloudy effect by following the in home flushing procedure laid out in question 15.

21. What should I do if my water is discolored?

If discoloration occurs, try running only the cold water at one faucet for about 5 minutes and you should see that the water becomes clear. (Note that running the hot water, rather than cold water, pulls from the hot water heater and may delay or cause the water to not run clear.)

If the water doesn’t clear up after 5 minutes, wait for a few hours and try running the cold water only again. If the water is still discolored, please contact us so we can investigate why the water continues to have discoloration. Even if you are in an apartment or don’t pay your water bill direct, it’s important to let us know.

You may call ACWWA at 303-790-4830, or email us. email us.

22. Does this process have anything to do with changing my water supply like they did in Flint?

No, the ice pigging process is only being used to clean the water mains. The water supply will remain the same. While this process may result in some discolored water, the material causing the discoloration is not lead.

23. Why isn’t my area using ice pigging?

The ice pigging procedure is more costly than traditional flushing methods. ACWWA has limited funds and is prioritizing areas that need cleaning the most. Depending on the conditions of the water mains, ACWWA may use ice pigging on other sections of pipe in the future.

24. Will I get charged any more on my bill because you are doing this?

No, this expense is coming directly out of the operations budget and will not cost customers anything extra.

25. Will I need to change the water filter(s) on my ice maker, refrigerator, and tap?

No, customers should not need to change water filters. While indoor water filters and treatment devices as well as outdoor irrigation filters and sprinkler heads are susceptible to clogging during the cleaning process, additional flushing should fix any issues. Before using any filtration device, customers should follow the in-home flushing procedure described in question 15 to avoid filter clogging.

26. Who can I contact if I have additional questions?

ACWWA will update the website with information relevant to the areas that will be scheduled for cleaning as appropriate. Please contact ACWWA at 303-790-4830 or email us.

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Lawn Watering Schedules - Stage 1

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1. I don’t use ACWWA water for my irrigation needs, I have a well. Will the “Water Police” issue me a warning or fine?

ACWWA will not impose fines or penalties to those users who irrigate from their private well. ACWWA strongly encourages all water users to conserve water regardless of where the water originates from.

2. If there is no enforcement, why is ACWWA bothering with the schedule?

Here are some reasons for implementing the Lawn Watering Schedule:



1. The Lawn Watering Schedule will help regulate water use by our customers. During the irrigation season, outdoor watering dominates water usage. A lawn watering schedule will help smooth the demand patterns (when the water is used during the week). ACWWA considered imposing penalties / fines for non-compliance, but due to the economic conditions and other factors, ACWWA has currently decided against implementing these enforcement methods.

2. ACWWA wants its customers to understand that by following the schedule, they contribute to ACWWA’s system being run most efficiently. This will lead to better service and less upward pressure on rates in the future.

3. I’ve heard watering schedules don’t actually save any water, is this true?

Watering Schedules by themselves don’t necessarily save water, but they can play a part in water conservation. The purpose of their use for ACWWA customers is more for regulating water use.

If every customer watered on the same day at the same time, that would cause peaks in demand, which eventually would cause ACWWA to plan for and build higher capacity facilities to handle the demand. By using Watering Schedules, ACWWA can regulate, thus saving in potential construction / operation costs.

4. My irrigation clock can’t handle an “every 3rd day” irrigation schedule. What should I do?

Most irrigation clocks have the capability to handle an “every 3rd day” watering schedule. However, there are some older clocks that do not. As ACWWA develops its Water Conservation Program, it will take these capabilities into account.

5. My neighbor is watering in the middle of the day, is that against the rules?

Currently, there are no restrictions regarding time of use, however, this is being reviewed as part of our Water Conservation Program. Watering in the heat of the day is less efficient than in evenings or during the night, when temperatures are cooler and the winds have died down.

6. Will customers be assessed fines / penalties if they don’t follow the schedule?

ACWWA is currently under Stage One - Voluntary Watering Restrictions, for all areas and no fines are being assessed.

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Organizational

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1. Does ACWWA serve water to all of Arapahoe County?

No, there are a number of water providers that serve water within Arapahoe County as well as households who provide their individual water supply by way of a groundwater well.

2. How can I keep up to date on board meetings and events at ACWWA?

ACWWA board meetings are open to the public and are held the second Wednesday of each month, at 9:00 a.m., at the ACWWA offices, 13031 E Caley Avenue. Other events are posted outside our building and are often advertised on our website.

3. How is the Board of Directors formed?

The ACWWA Board is appointed by the Arapahoe County Board of Commissioners.

4. Is Arapahoe County Water and Wastewater Authority (ACWWA) a governmental agency?

Yes, ACWWA represents a cooperative effort among public entities to provide water and wastewater services in portions of Arapahoe County, within the boundaries of the Arapahoe County Water and Wastewater Public Improvement District (the “PID”), and within other areas as permitted by law.

In 1988, Arapahoe County and the Arapahoe Water and Sanitation District (“AWSD”) entered into a contract establishing ACWWA as a separate governmental entity to develop water resources, systems and facilities, wastewater treatment and disposal systems, and facilities in whole or in part for the benefit of the residents of the PID, the County, and others.

5. What is the ACWWPID?

The Arapahoe County Water and Wastewater Public Improvement District (PID) is a taxing unit of Arapahoe County and a political subdivision of the State created pursuant to the “County Public Improvement District Act of 1968” (C.R.S. 30-20-501 et seq., the “District Act”) for the purpose of financing and providing the construction of water and sanitary sewer improvements.

Formation of the PID was initiated by a group of property owners who filed a petition (the “Petition”) for the PID’s organization in accordance with the requirements of the District Act. The Petition was approved by the Arapahoe County Commissioners on July 10, 2001, pursuant to a resolution (the “Approval Resolution”), and the matter of the PID’s formation was submitted to the district’s electors on November 6, 2001.

Following a successful election, the PID was formed on December 4, 2001, pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Arapahoe Commissioners. The boundaries of the PID overlap with a portion of City of Centennial and a small portion of the Town of Foxfield. As required by the District Act, the formation of the PID was approved by the City of Centennial on June 21, 2001.

In addition, in the manner required by the District Act, on November 25, 2003, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners consented to the inclusion within the PID of approximately 117 acres of property located in Douglas County.

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PFAS in Water Supplies Effective 3.5.21 v1

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1. What is PFAS?

It is an abbreviation for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances which are manmade chemicals used in metal plating and a wide variety of consumer products including fire-suppressing foam, carpets, paints, polishes and waxes. The most studied types of PFAS are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluoroctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). Other monitored PFAS are for PFNA, PFHxS, and PFBS.

2. What is being done to protect our drinking water from PFAS?

ACWWA’s drinking water is treated at blended reverse-osmosis purification plants at either the Joint Water Purification Plan (JWPP) or in partnership with Brighton’s reverse-osmosis purification plant. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “high-pressure membranes, such as reverse-osmosis (RO), has proven extremely effective at removing PFAS, should any be introduced into the system.” According to the American Water Works Association (AWWA), “membrane filtration (RO) is an excellent, broad spectrum way to remove PFAS.” You can read the AWWA’s PFAS article on our website.

3. What are the advisory levels of PFAS?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a health advisory level for PFAS in drinking water not to exceed 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for the combined amount of PFOS and PFOA. That is the level, or amount, below which no harm is expected from these chemicals, based on daily consumption over a lifetime.

4. Has there been any detection of PFAS from the source-water being used by ACWWA?

• Recently seven PFAS testing samples were taken from ACWWA at source-water intakes from alluvial and groundwater wells (before the raw-water is treated). Of the seven tests taken, four samples had no detection, and three showed results of 10, 12, and 13 parts-per-trillion (PPT), which were well below the EPA’s 70 PPT regulation. These were PFAS tests taken before water treatment.

• Of the three samples detecting PFAS at ACWWA’s source-water intakes, two of them were from wells used for irrigation only, so no inclusion into ACWWA’s drinking water supply. The other well test was from an alluvial well (a shallow well). This well either goes directly into a water storage tank before being used by any customer and is blended with other water sources, so any delivery of this water would be further diluted or it goes to our water purification (RO) plant which also mitigates any PFAS.

(*Sourced 03-01-2021.)

5. How does the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) regulate PFAS?

The CDPHE regulates PFAS based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) advisories. The EPA established a health advisory level for two of the chemicals in the Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family. A health advisory level is to safeguard people, especially sensitive groups, with a margin of protection. This advisory is for PFOA and PFOS combined at 70 parts per trillion.

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Rates, Fees & Bills

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1. How are our water rates determined?

ACWWA’s water rates are formulated using methodologies developed by the American Water Works Association, a nationally recognized water industry group. The method develops rates based on the cost of providing service to various classes of customers.

For ACWWA these classes include residential and commercial / industrial. In large part, the cost of providing service to a customer class depends on the demand characteristics of that class, e.g. maximum day delivery demands, annual volume used, etc.

In addition, water rate development also considers the fact that not all of ACWWA’s water customers are located in the ACWWPID property taxing area, contractual obligations that ACWWA has with various neighborhoods (Chapparal, Antelope, Foxfield, etc.), and commitments made to the holders of ACWWA’s bond debt.

Finally, the water rate structure reflects ACWWA’s efforts to promote water conservation. The rate structure, commonly called an inclining block, charges more for increased water usage.

In 2016, ACWWA conducted a Cost of Service Study which worked to achieve ACWWA's stated policy, operation, and capital goals, and place ACWWA in the best position to maintain revenue sufficiency. Use the following link to view a full copy of this study: Cost of Service Study

2. How are sewer rates determined?

ACWWA’s sewer rates are formulated using methodologies developed by the Water Environment Federation, a nationally recognized industry group for wastewater industry.

Similar to water rates, the method develops rates based on the cost of providing service to ACWWA’s customer classes (residential and commercial / industrial). Here the cost of providing service depends on the volume of waste discharged to ACWWA’s sewer system, the strength of that waste, and the cost of conducting ACWWA’s Industrial Pretreatment Program. The cost for this EPA-required program is recovered from the commercial / industrial class. ACWWA utilizes "sewer averaging" for its residential customers. In the Spring, after the March bills are issued, ACWWA captures the previous winter's actual consumption for the sewer averaging and that average is what is billed thoughout the summer months. Then in Winter, after the November bills are issued, ACWWA converts to actual consumption for the sewer charges. Sewer charges are meter related and for those customers that do not have a separate irrigation line.

The sewer rate structure also reflects ACWWA’s efforts to promote water efficiency. While customers are charged on the basis of their indoor water usage, they are charged for all water used indoors. So, if less water is used indoors, sewer bills are lower.

3. Why are fixed rates high?

ACWWA’s water and sewer rates both include a fixed monthly charge and a volume charge that varies with metered use. From a cost standpoint, more than 75% of ACWWA’s costs are fixed.

In other words, a major portion of costs do not vary with water demand. Further, a significant part of these costs are for repayment of bonds–funds borrowed by ACWWA to acquire surface water supplies and build treatment facilities for its customers. These repayment obligations must be met and represent a large portion of the fixed charges that appear on monthly water bills.

4. Can ACWWA automatically debit my credit or debit card each month?

Currently, ACWWA is only able to debit your checking or savings account directly using EFT, not your debit or credit card. However, debit / credit cards are accepted using the Online Bill Payment website.

5. Can I set up automatic monthly payments on my account?

Yes, ACWWA does offer monthly automatic debit or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) service to both our residential and commercial customers.

6. How do I start EFT to pay my bill?

Simply download the EFT Form and follow the instructions. Electronic Funds Transfer Form (PDF)

7. How long does it take for EFT to start after I submit my form?

If you submit your form no later than the 15th of the month, your EFT will begin on the 20th of the same month. A letter or email confirmation will be sent verifying EFT set-up.

8. How much will be automatically deducted from my bank account each month?

Our EFT program will automatically deduct your monthly balance due in full as indicated on your monthly bill.

9. If my property is being rented, how do I authorize ACWWA to release account information and copies of the monthly bills to the tenant?

Simply download the Account Authorization Form and follow the instructions. Account Authorization Form (PDF)

10. Is there a fee associated with using your EFT service?

No, EFT service is free to all customers.

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Water & Wastewater

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1. Are baby/adult wipes flushable?

No, so-called "disposable" baby/adult wipes are becoming one of the biggest problems facing wastewater districts around the country. These wipes catch on rough spots in sewers and act as a seed for clogs to start forming. Most sewer systems use pumps to lift sewage and move it along the lines. Baby/adult wipes and other types of rags can bind up in these pumps and shut them down. The best place to dispose of sanitary wipes is in the trash. Only toilet paper should go down the drain.

2. Is reclaimed water safe?

Reclaimed water undergoes treatment and disinfection to ensure the production of a continuous and reliable supply of high-quality water. Individual states’ environmental and / or health departments determine the necessary levels of treatment for different nonpotable uses.

These agencies may also enforce strict usage requirements upon users of reclaimed water. If you come in contact with reclaimed water, take the same precautions as you would around water from ponds or streams, including common sense personal hygiene measures.

3. Is there lead in my drinking water, and if so what can I do about it?

ACWWA has not detected lead in the treated water leaving our plant or in the source water. However, lead can come from the customers plumbing.

According to the EPA, two types of homes may be at risk for lead contamination:

1. Homes that are very old (pre-WWII) with lead services or pipe lines

2. Homes that were built between 1982 and 1987, which used copper pipe with lead based solder. Lead based solder was banned from use on domestic drinking water plumbing in 1987.

Here are some ways to reduce your exposure to lead:

1. When water has been standing in your pipes, run the cold water tap until the water gets noticeably colder. The lower temperature indicates you have cleared the water that has been standing in the pipes.

2. Use only water from the cold water tap for drinking, cooking, and for making baby formula. Hot tap water dissolves lead faster and is likely to contain higher levels of lead if present.

3. When repairing or replacing plumbing, insist on lead-free solder and lead-free fixtures.

4. Should I put my used cooking grease down the drain?

Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) are the cause of approximately 90% of all sanitary sewer pverflows. There are a few things residents can do to keep sanitary sewers flowing smoothly.

1. Pour hot grease into a container that can hold hot liquid (a coffee cup or empty can) until it solidifies, and then dispose of in the trash. Vegetable oil, that stays in a liquid form, can be discharged to the sewer.

2. Scrape food off dishes into the trash. Food solids can build up in sewer pipes causing back-ups and overflows.

3. Remember that modern dishwashers are very efficient. If you have scraped off the food solids into the trash there should be no need to prewash your dishes.

5. What is reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is wastewater that has undergone additional treatment, making it suitable for reuse applications. Common synonyms for reclaimed water include “reuse water,” “recycled water,” and “reclaimed domestic wastewater.”

6. Why do we use reclaimed water and what are the benefits of reuse?

Water is a limited resource, especially in the arid west. The use of reclaimed water is an important part of managing and conserving this limited resource. It can help conserve potable water, recharge groundwater, and postpone the development of new water sources and supplies through costly investments such as wells, dams, reservoirs and pipelines. Using reclaimed water can also save money and provide aesthetic value.

7. Why do we sometimes smell odors near the wastewater treatment plant?

Odors are a natural part of the substances handled and treated at any wastewater treatment plant. Odors are typically contained to the wastewater treatment plant site; but occasionally odors drift from the plant site depending on weather conditions and wind direction.

Routine treatment operations are designed to reduce the amount of odors present; however, certain weather conditions and equipment maintenance may lessen the effectiveness of these routine odor control operations.

8. What causes these odors?

Most of the odors detected in and around wastewater treatment plants are signals that nature’s treatment process is working; organic matter is decomposing and pollutants are being removed from the wastewater.

As the table Odorous Compounds In Wastewater shows, three major odorous compounds naturally occurring in the treatment process, hydrogen sulfide, amines and mercaptans, are detectable by the human nose at extremely low concentrations.

Odorous Compounds In Wastewater

Compound Name	Recognition Threshold parts per million	Odor Description
Allyl mercaptan	0.0015	Disagreeable, garlic
Ammonia	37	Pungent, irritating
Amyl mercaptan	—-	Unpleasant, putrid
Diisopropyl amine	0.38	Fishy
Dimethyl amine	—-	Putrid, fishy
Ethyl amine	1.7	Ammonialike
Ethyl mercaptan	0.001	Decayed cabbage
Hydrogen sulfide	0.0047	Rotten eggs
Indole	—-	Fecal, nauseating
Methyl amine	—-	Putrid, fishy
Methyl mercaptan	0.0010	Rotten cabbage
From Table 2.1, Odor Control in Wastewater Treatment Plants, 1995, WEF & American Society of Civil Engineers

Were it not for odor control measures, all wastewater treatment processes are capable of emitting odors.

9. How does ACWWA minimize odors at the wastewater treatment plant?

ACWWA currently operates the Lone Tree Creek Water Reuse Facility (LTCWRF) using best management practices that ensure the facility processes are operating in an effective manner.  If the processes are operating correctly, then odors are kept to a minimum.  The best management practices followed by ACWWA are listed below:

• On/Off Aeration – The On/Off Aeration process is used to help stabilize the waste storage tanks. Following an on/off schedule, staff is able to introduce denitrification (removal of nitrogen) in a process which would not typically be supported. On/Off Aeration not only aids in the ability to settle and dewatering separation, but it also creates an electrical cost savings because the blowers are shut-off for a period of the day. Slight odors can be emitted when we reactivate the aeration system after it has been off. Experience has shown that a 4-6 hour off period is the limit where the least amount of odors is emitted when the blowers are turned back on.  Temperature can affect the time-off duration.
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• Physical Barriers – All high odor areas are either covered or remain behind closed doors. The beginning of the treatment process is the most odorous. The doors to the Headworks, which is the first step in the treatment process, remain closed at all times.  The Parshall Flume, which is an influent measuring structure, and the Junction Structure 2, which allows staff the ability to dump into our emergency pond, or go to Headworks, all have covers that remain in place.
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• Process Monitoring – LTCWRF’s processes are carefully monitored twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, for health and effectiveness.  The monitoring allows staff to proactively change processes prior to any upsets occurring, which potentially can cause unusual odors.

• Aerobic Digestion – Aerobic Digestion is the process of stabilizing sludge (the residual, semi-solid material that is produced as a by-product during sewage treatment) and can operate in one of two ways. Aerobic Digestion, which uses air to mix and sustain the biology or Anaerobic Digestion, where the digester is operating in a covered tank, which prevents air from entering the tank). Anaerobic Digestion is more prone to upsets and resulting odors.

• Primary Clarification – LTCWRF does not have a primary clarifier. Primary clarification is used to settle out and remove grit, solids and grease from the influent prior to Headworks. Primary clarification is the highest cause of odors in facilities that utilize them.

 

10. What can I do if I smell an odor I think is coming from the plant?

First of all, it is important to understand that odors are generated from every phase of wastewater management, including collection, treatment, and disposal, and that odors are impossible to prevent.  Please wait at least one hour before you consider calling our office.  Most odors, if detected, are temporary and will dissipate as quickly as they occur.  If the odor persists for over an hour and occurs in the same location you originally noticed it, you may call ACWWA, 303-790-4830, to inform the staff you detect an odor. Staff will ask you for the following information:

- Your name, address, and phone number;

- Information about the odor; such as, what time you noticed it, is it still noticeable, a description of the odor (refer to the Odorous Compounds In Wastewater table) and how strong is the odor.

11. What happens when the LTCWRF receives an odor complaint?

Staff will record all of the complainant’s information described above; as well as, temperature, humidity, weather conditions, wind velocity, and wind direction.

All of the information combined helps staff determine if the odor is being emitted from the LTCWRF or from elsewhere, and most importantly if there is anything beyond best management practices that can be done to correct the issue.

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Water Efficiency

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1. Is ACWWA offering any rebates this year?

Yes. For more information, see the Water Efficiency Tab drop down menu under Rebate Program.

2. What is ACWWA doing about Water Efficiency?

ACWWA has been proactive in its water efficiency efforts but is looking to do more! ACWWA, in conjunction with various other agencies, has been developing efforts to get water efficiency information and education out to our children and in a regional effort, getting a consistent message out to everyone that water efficiency is very important. Also, in 2006, ACWWA developed a Water Conservation Plan approved by the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB).

Only about 25% of water providers in Colorado have an approved plan with the State. In 2010, ACWWA developed a Water Conservation Program that puts many of the components identified in the CWCB Water Conservation Plan into action. This also adds additional components with the intent to reduce overall water usage in our service area.

3. Can I use a rain barrel to collect water from my roof in Colorado?

Yes. Legislation passed in 2016 allows for small-scale residential collection from rooftops.

4. Who can use rain barrels?

State law allows the use of rain barrels at single family homes or attached multi-family hoes with four or fewer units.

5. How much water can I collect?

The law allows up to two rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of 110 gallons. Depending on the amount of precipitation in any one year, a household could save between 1,300-2,100 gallons of water per year.

6. Are there any rules I must follow if I decide to use a rain barrel?

Yes, rain barrel use is allowed under the following circumstances:
• Water collected cannot be used for drinking;
• No more than two rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of 110 gallons or less may be used;
• Precipitation is collected from the rooftop of a building that is used primarily as a single-family residence or a multi-family residence with four or fewer units;
• The collected precipitation is used for outdoor purposes including irrigation of lawns and gardens;
• The collected precipitation is used on the residential property on which the precipitation is collected;
• Rain barrels must be covered on the top to control insects (mainly mosquitos).

7. Where can I purchase a rain barrel?

They are commonly found at your local hardware or home improvement store or through a search on the internet.

8. Where can I find more information about the law?

The Colorado Division of Water Resources has additional information at http://water.state.co.us. Or, you may call (303) 866-3581

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Water Main Flushing

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1. What is water main flushing?

Water main flushing is the process of cleaning or “scouring” the interior of water distribution main pipes by sending a rapid flow of water through the main pipes.

2. What are the benefits of flushing?

Reduces bacterial growth

Identifies missing or broken valves
Ensures that fire hydrants are operational

Dislodges and removes sediments and deposit build-up

Reduces taste and odor problems

3. How long does the flushing process take?

The flushing process generally takes 1 - 2 days per neighborhood to complete.

4. What should I do if my water is discolored?

If discoloration occurs, try running only the cold water at one faucet for about 5 minutes and you should see that the water becomes clear. (Note that running the hot water, rather than cold water, pulls from the hot water heater and may delay or cause the water to not run clear.)

If the water doesn’t clear up after 5 minutes, wait for a few hours and try running the cold water only again. If the water is still discolored, please contact us so we can investigate why the water continues to have discoloration. Even if you are in an apartment or don’t pay your water bill direct, it’s important to let us know.

You may call the office at 303-790-4830 or email us.

5. Is the water safe to drink if it is discolored?

If the water is discolored due to minerals, such as iron and manganese, the water remains safe to drink. It does look bad and we cannot blame you for not wanting to drink it. If your water is discolored, try running the cold water for 5-10 minutes. If it doesn’t clear up, please contact ACWWA at 303-790-4830, or email us.

6. Can I still do laundry when the water is discolored?

It is recommended that you do not wash clothes when there is any discoloration in the water to avoid the possibility that it could stain any clothing - especially whites. If you have any further questions and / or continue to experience any ongoing discoloration in your water, please contact ACWWA at 303-790-4830, or via email.

7. What causes red / brown water?

Discoloration of water normally is caused by naturally occurring minerals (primarily iron and manganese) that are flowing with the water. Normally what happens is the minerals, being heavier than water, settle in the bottom of the water pipelines, especially during winter months when water usage is low. Then, when the water flow and pressure through the water pipes increases (due to irrigation, construction, etc.) it stirs up the minerals and they flow with the water and out the faucet. That’s why, to help avoid the issue, we “flush out” the water systems.

8. How much water is used to flush mains?

That depends on many factors, such as main size, system pressure, the amount of sediment and the ability to dispose of the water used in flushing. The water flushed from the mains in the distribution system accounts for only a very small portion, 0.01%, of ACWWA’s total annual consumption.

Protecting water quality is also a critical goal of ACWWA, and the trade-off is to conduct flushing, but using as little water as possible.

9. When will the water mains be flushed in my neighborhood?

ACWWA flushes the water mains approximately once per year, in the spring. Look for signs that flushing will occur at the entrances to your neighborhood. The schedule will be updated frequently.

Occasionally, weather may delay / hinder the flushing process and emergencies may arise where ACWWA’s staff is called away from flushing for a day or two. Please call the office at 303-790-4830 or check ACWWA’s web page for updates.