Bedford Water is Safe to Drink, Says DPW

Two test samples of Bedford's drinking water in July showed the presence of coliform bacteria, but samples taken at the same locations the next day came back clear, according to DPW Director Roy E. Sorenson.

“It is important to understand that coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are monitored because their presence in the water is an indicator of potential issues within the water distribution system. The summer months are usually the time when coliform may appear since elevated water temperatures can facilitate bacteria growth. The coliform itself are generally not considered harmful and no harmful bacteria were identified in the sample tests,” according to Sorenson.

“Therefore the water coming from the distribution system meets all standards set forth by DEP and is safe to drink,” he added.

A year ago, Bedford found that numerous samples included coliform. The DPW, state Department of Environmental Protection and Massachusetts Water Resource Authority have been working to correct the distribution system.  Work that has been done has included a cleaning/lining project, water tank cleaning and computer system upgrades.

“Since that time an accelerated plan has been underway to significantly improve the infrastructure for the distribution system. The impact has been seen immediately as only two isolated samples have come back so far this summer indicating coliform whereas last year there were multiple scattered throughout the system. It is the expectation that these short-term positive results will lend themselves to a long-term solution at the conclusion of improvements next year,” said Sorenson.

Find out more about the work to help improve Bedford drinking water.