What Fort Worth Residents Should Know
Fort Worth's water primarily comes from surface water sources, including Lake Worth, Eagle Mountain Lake, Cedar Creek Reservoir, and the Trinity River. While the city's water treatment facilities produce water that meets federal and state standards, several challenges exist that can affect drinking water quality for residents.
The use of surface water introduces seasonal variations in quality, including higher turbidity during rainy periods and increased organic matter that can lead to disinfection byproducts when treated with chlorine. Fort Worth's rapid population growth has strained infrastructure, and the city is working to update aging pipes and facilities across its extensive service area.
Of particular concern are older neighborhoods with lead service lines and plumbing components installed before 1986. While the water leaving treatment plants is lead-free, it can pick up lead from these pipes. Additionally, Fort Worth faces challenges with disinfection byproducts like trihalomethanes (TTHMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), which can form when surface water is disinfected.
Key Contaminants Found
These substances have been detected in Fort Worth's water supply at levels that may be concerning for some residents.
Lead
Near Limit in Some AreasSource: Lead service lines, lead solder in plumbing, and older fixtures in pre-1986 buildings
Health Effects: Developmental delays in children, learning disabilities, reduced IQ, kidney problems, high blood pressure
Fort Worth Levels: Average 5.2 ppb (90th percentile), with approximately 6% of samples exceeding the EPA action level
EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no safe level exists
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
Near Limit in Some AreasSource: Byproducts formed when chlorine used to disinfect water reacts with organic matter
Health Effects: Potential increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure, liver and kidney problems
Fort Worth Levels: 45-69 ppb, varying by location and season, approaching EPA limit in some areas
EPA Limit: 80 ppb
Haloacetic Acids (HAAs)
Below Limit, But PresentSource: Byproducts formed when chlorine used to disinfect water reacts with organic matter
Health Effects: Potential increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure, reproductive effects
Fort Worth Levels: 25-40 ppb in most areas, higher during summer months
EPA Limit: 60 ppb
Turbidity
Below LimitSource: Soil runoff into surface water sources, particularly during heavy rain events
Health Effects: No direct health effects, but high turbidity can interfere with disinfection and provide medium for microbial growth
Fort Worth Levels: 0.2-0.5 NTU, occasionally higher after storms
EPA Limit: 1 NTU
Neighborhood Variations
Water quality can vary significantly across Fort Worth's diverse neighborhoods, primarily due to differences in infrastructure age, pipe materials, and distance from treatment facilities.
Water Quality by Area
| Neighborhood/Area | Risk Level | Treatment Plant | Buildings Pre-1986 | Notable Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northside/Diamond Hill | High | North Plant | 78% | Lead, Aging Infrastructure |
| Near Southside/Fairmount | High | South Plant | 74% | Lead, TTHMs |
| Downtown/Riverside | Medium | South Plant | 65% | Lead, TTHMs, HAAs |
| Arlington Heights/Ridglea | Medium | Rolling Hills Plant | 58% | TTHMs, HAAs |
| East Fort Worth | Medium | East Plant | 52% | TTHMs, Turbidity |
| Far North/Keller Area | Low | North Plant | 20% | TTHMs (Low Levels) |
Data based on Fort Worth Water Department sampling and U.S. Census housing statistics.
Recommended Action Steps
Based on Fort Worth's water quality data, we recommend these actions to protect yourself and your family.
Test Your Water If in an Older Home
If you live in a pre-1986 home, especially in Northside, Diamond Hill, Near Southside, or Fairmount, consider testing your water for lead and other contaminants. The Fort Worth Water Department offers testing services for residents.
Water Testing ResourcesUse Cold Water for Consumption
Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water can contain higher levels of lead and other contaminants as it dissolves them more readily from pipes. Run cold water for 60-90 seconds before using it, especially first thing in the morning.
Consider a Carbon Filter
A simple activated carbon filter (pitcher or faucet-mounted) can significantly reduce disinfection byproducts like TTHMs and HAAs, while also improving taste and odor. This is especially important for homes in areas with higher TTHM readings.
Check for Lead Service Lines
If your home was built before 1986, contact the Fort Worth Water Department to determine if you have lead service lines. They maintain records of service line materials for many properties and can help you identify your risk level.
Lead Service Line InformationBe Aware of Seasonal Changes
Fort Worth's surface water quality can vary seasonally, with higher turbidity and organic matter during rainy periods and after storms. Consider additional filtration during these times, particularly if you notice changes in water taste, odor, or appearance.
Stay Informed About Water Advisories
Sign up for alerts from the Fort Worth Water Department to receive timely notifications about boil water notices and other water quality advisories. These are particularly important after severe weather events or infrastructure issues.
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