Water Color Update and Statement from NHDES

Dear Valued Customers,

We understand that you may be experiencing frustration due to the recent colored water issue affecting our water supply. We want to assure you that we are fully aware of this situation and are actively working to address it in collaboration with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES).

The following is a statement issued by the NH Department of Environmental Services on August 17th, 2023:

We understand your frustration with the colored water you are receiving. NHDES is aware of widespread colored water in the Hampstead Area and Salem water systems. We are communicating closely with the operators and managers of both water systems while they work to resolve the issue. While we understand colored water is disruptive and aesthetically unpleasant, both Salem and Hampstead Area water systems are in compliance with all state and federal primary drinking water standards, including additional samples required by NHDES as a result of this issue. Color and manganese at the levels measured exceed what is referred to as secondary standards, which are based on aesthetics, not public health risk.

The colored water occurrence is linked to elevated manganese and natural organic matter (NOM) in Salem's source water. This elevation is likely attributed to periods of high precipitation and runoff, which the Salem treatment process is not specifically designed to fully eliminate. Hampstead Area Water Company (HAWC), relies significantly on water sourced from the Town of Salem to meet the demand, especially during peak usage periods.

We wish to inform you that Salem has taken immediate steps to address the situation by implementing operational adjustments and temporary additional treatment at their plant. As a result, the water leaving the plant is now clear. However, it will take some time for this clear water to fully circulate through both distribution systems.

NHDES is working collaboratively with Salem to develop a comprehensive corrective action plan. This plan aims to improve Salem's intake and treatment processes to prevent such occurrences in the future.

We sincerely understand the inconvenience this situation has caused you and appreciate your patience. Rest assured, both Salem and HAWC are committed to resolving this issue and ensuring the provision of safe and clear water to our valued customers.

Thank you for your understanding and ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Michael C. Unger, PE

Water Engineer

Drinking Water and Groundwater Bureau

NH Department of Environmental Services

Hampstead Area Water Company, Inc. (HAWC) is providing this update to address concerns regarding recent drinking water color. The company is committed to providing the highest quality water to its customers and ensuring transparency as it addresses this issue.

Please continue to utilize the water color report submission located on the home page of www.hampsteadwater.com

Thank you for your patience and understand that we are working hard to resolve this issue, and although the water was not aesthetically pleasing, at no time during this event did any water samples exceed safe drinking water standards.

Stay Informed: Regularly check HAWC’s website at www.hampsteadwater.com and social media channels for updates on the progress of our efforts.

For inquiries and more information, please contact: 

Customer Service

Hampstead Area Water Company, Inc.

Phone: 603-362-4299

Email: customerservice@hampsteadwater.com

Website: www.hampsteadwater.com