LaRC purchases all drinking water used on Center from Newport News Waterworks. NASA Environmental thought employees would be interested in understanding where their drinking water originates and the lengths that Newport News goes to ensure high-quality drinking water.
How is the water treated?
Waterworks treats both surface water and brackish groundwater. The surface water is pumped from reservoirs to treatment plants. The water passes through screens and then aluminum sulfate (alum) and polymer are added. These chemicals cause tiny particles in the water to cling together (coagulation), making the particles easier to remove. After the water is clarified, ozone or chlorine (disinfection) is added to kill microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. The water is then sent through filters to remove any remaining particles (filtration). Lime is added to adjust the pH, fluoride is added to prevent tooth decay in children, and zinc orthophosphate is added to control corrosion inside the pipe system. Finally, chloramines, the secondary disinfectant, are added to maintain disinfection through the pipe system.
The brackish groundwater is pumped to a desalination plant located at the Lee Hall facility. Using a process called reverse osmosis, water is forced by high pressure through membranes that can remove the salt and most other contaminants to produce very high-quality water. The water is blended with treated surface water and sent to customers.
Quality Report
Newport News Waterworks is required to complete an annual Water Quality Report also known as a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The most current version of this report can be downloaded here: NNWW CCR
Paper copies of the report are available at all local libraries and at the customer service lobby at City Center Oyster Point (700 Town Center Drive, Newport News). A paper copy can be mailed to you upon request by calling 757-926-1000.
