As stated earlier this year in our Consumer Confidence Report, the City of Sauk Rapids will begin using a new method of disinfection its water supply called 'chloramination'.  The City currently relies on the presence of chlorine to ensure the safety of its drinking water.  In some instances, however, chlorine can combine with natural organics in well water to produce potentially harmful organic compounds called "Disinfection By-Products".  Chloramination, on the other hand, uses a disinfectant called "chloramines".  Chloramines are known to inhibit that formation of Disinfection By-Products.

The City of Sauk Rapids is switching from the use of chlorine to chloramines for disinfecting its water supply.  Chloramines are safe.  They are being used by a growing number of utilities to control Disinfection By-Products.  Chloramines generally have improved the taste and odor of drinking water where they have been introduced, and provide a more stable and longer-lasting residual in water distribution systems.

Since the use of chloramines is new at our water system, we ask for your patience as our utility makes all of the necessary chemical adjustments in making this change.  There may be intermittent changes in the taste of the water, but it will always be safe to drink.  Time will be needed for both monitoring and adjusting, so as to deliver the best balance of finished water to our consumers' taps.

Special Users: Chloramines have adverse effects on fish in aquariums and bait tanks and kidney dialysis machines. Procedures are available for removing chloramines from water used for such purposes.  These are advised to consult with their manufacturers for technical guidance.

Click on the following links for more information:

Making Water Quality Even Better

Conversion to Chloramines - Quick Facts

If you have any questions for concerns, please contact John Henz at 258-5318.