Contamination Prevention

In order to protect the water delivered to customers from contamination in the distribution system, NMWD has a comprehensive Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention program.

The aim of the program is to make sure that – for example – untreated water from a well, chemicals stored in tanks, or other liquids and contaminants do not enter into our water system through a customer’s plumbing.

NMWD staff identify areas or properties where risks might exist, categorize those risks, and apply the appropriate devices to reduce or eliminate risk.

You may need to have your property evaluated and have the proper device installed if you have any of the following on your property:

• A well-used for irrigation
• A pool
• A large storage tank
• Dock side water facilities

Commercial and industrial facilities which pump fluids under pressure or those that contain any amounts of hazardous materials, as well as medical offices, are among those that are required to have a cross connection control device installed at the meter.

More on NMWD’s cross connection control programs can be found here: Regulation 06.