Pocatello water quality report released

Officials at the City of Pocatello Water Department mailed more than 26,000 copies of the annual water report to city residents.

“We had no violations,” said Jeff Mansfield, the director of public works.

Each substance that’s in the water came in well under the highest level that’s safe to drink. The only contaminant the city may keep their eye on is nitrate, but even then, Mansfield says there’s nothing to worry about.

The Annual Water Quality Report includes the results of 1,500 water quality tests conducted over the past year. It also includes information on the source of the City’s water, what’s in the water, and what risks the City’s testing and treatment prevent.

The City’s main source of water is the aquifer, which gets most of its replenishment from the Gibson Jack and Scout Mountain area.

“There were a few years there where it was diminishing a little bit. But with the past year, the amount of water that we’ve had, we anticipate it will be a good recharge year for the aquifer,” Mansfield said.

The Northgate Development is expected to create 10,000 new homes in the coming years, and those residents will need water.

“I think the aquifer should be able to sustain it, and we’re obviously always looking at ways that we can improve our use of water,” Mansfield said.

Last week, the Idaho State Journal reported that the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality didn’t approve the City’s plan for the Northgate Development. Officials say they need more specific details in the plan, and that otherwise, the development won’t occur.

Tips to save water:

• Repair leaky faucets

• Take shorter showers

• Only run the washing machine if it’s full

• Water your lawn in the early mornings or late evenings to avoid evaporation

• Plant drought-resistant plants