This notice has been developed to inform consumers of the Town of Berryville waterworks about the current status of Haloacetic Acids (HAA5s) level in drinking water. Since 2023, the Town has been evaluating the water treatment process and distribution system to address elevated HAA5s, a byproduct of disinfection with chlorine. Actions taken by the Town include: 1) enhanced flushing of water in our distribution system, 2) cleaning and inspection of all water storage tanks and tank mixers, 3) engaging an engineering firm in 2023 to review water storage and distribution strategies, and 4) recruiting a chemical engineer in 2024 to review treatment protocols and processes at the water treatment plant.
In December 2024, Virginia Department of Health (VDH) issued a Consent Order for the Town’s waterworks, requiring specific actions on the part of the Town to address elevated HAA5s. These include: 1) optimization of operational practices by an engineer with experience in disinfection byproduct control, 2) assessment of the age and condition of settling tubes and filter media, and 3) continuing to pursue a water plant upgrade. The Town has met each milestone set by VDH.
The last notice consumers received was in April 2025, because that was the last occurrence of an elevated HAA5 as reflected in the annual running average. The maximum contaminate level (MCL) for HAA5s is 0.060 mg/L. In 2025, the HAA5 average levels have been below the MCL at 0.040 mg/L.
Chemical and operational adjustments were made in early 2025. Together with best practices identified during 2023 and 2024, utility operators anticipate continuing to provide water that complies fully with VDH quality standards. The Town feels strongly that expansion and updates to our water treatment plant will be the most effective long-term solution to address regulatory compliance for disinfection byproducts. This does not mean that there will be any lessening of current efforts to minimize HAA5s. Design of the renovated treatment plant is currently underway.
All water quality results are available at https://vadwv.gecsws.com/ . Questions may be directed to Director of Utilities Frank Kelsey at dirutilities@berryvilleva.gov or by calling 540-955-6403.