Mission Springs Water District is issuing a water quality notice to inform customers about recent test results related to chromium‑6, a naturally occurring element found in groundwater throughout the Coachella Valley.
This Is Not an Emergency
MSWD continues to provide the same high‑quality drinking water our customers have relied on for decades. The water has not changed. The reason for this notice is a new state regulation, not a change in water quality.
California recently adopted a new maximum contaminant level (MCL) for chromium‑6 of 10 parts per billion (ppb). Routine water sampling reviewed in February showed MSWD’s running annual average levels slightly above the new standard. State regulations require public notification when this occurs.
What Is Chromium‑6?
Chromium‑6 is a naturally occurring element found in rocks and sediment. Due to local geology, chromium is naturally abundant in groundwater across the Coachella Valley. The chromium‑6 detected in MSWD’s water supply is not the result of pollution or industrial activity.
California’s chromium‑6 MCL is currently the only drinking water standard in the nation for this constituent.
Do Customers Need to Take Action?
For most customers, no action is needed at this time.
- Alternative water supplies, such as bottled water, are not required.
- This situation does not pose an immediate health risk.
- If this were an emergency, customers would have been notified immediately.
As always, individuals with specific health concerns may wish to consult their healthcare provider.
What MSWD Is Doing
MSWD is actively working with the State Water Resources Control Board – Division of Drinking Water to meet the new regulatory requirements. Actions underway include:
- Submitting a Compliance Plan to the State for review and approval
- Moving forward with a Chromium‑6 treatment project, expected to come online later this summer or fall
- Evaluating the most cost‑effective, long‑term solutions for our customers
MSWD is also providing ongoing information through public outreach, community discussions, and updates on our website.
Where to Find More Information
Customers can:
- Read the full Water Quality Notice on our website
- Visit www.mswd.org/waterquality for updates
- Contact MSWD’s Public Affairs team at 760‑329‑6448 (extensions 120 or 145) or publicaffairs [at] mswd.org (publicaffairs[at]mswd[dot]org)
Mission Springs Water District remains committed to transparency, regulatory compliance, and delivering safe, reliable drinking water to our community.