Q. What is the hydrologic cycle?

A. Here is a diagram of the hydrologic cycle so you can see exactly how it works:

Q. How safe is our water? Is our water safe?

A. All of our local water suppliers meet or exceed U.S. EPA and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality standards. These standards are set at conservative levels that are protective of health over a lifetime of drinking the water. Our municipal water systems test our water several times a day to assure a safe, potable water supply.

Q. How deep are local municipal wells?

A. Local municipal wells may be anywhere from 50 feet deep in glacial deposits to an average of 300-400 feet deep in the Saginaw Formation.

Q. Where can I get my water tested?

A. For information about water testing contact your local health department or the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Lab.

Clinton County Health Department
Barry-Eaton County Health Department
Ingham County Environmental Health Department (517) 887-4312
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Lab (517) 335-8184

Q. Can I put in a well or septic system on my property?

A. That determination must be made by your local health department according to its written Sanitary Code.

Q. Can I receive municipal water if I have a private well?

A. Your local municipality determines if public water is currently available or will be made available where you live.