Testing data, compliance reports, and safety information for the WATCO community water system.
WATCO meets all drinking water standards set by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Over 100 individual water quality tests are conducted each year. Results are reported to CDPHE and summarized in the annual Consumer Confidence Report.
WATCO draws from the high-elevation alpine watershed of the San Juan Mountains — one of the most pristine natural water sources in Colorado.
All treatment and distribution operations are managed by CDPHE-licensed operators Peter Coe (ORC) and Dean Jones, ensuring professional oversight year-round.
Representative results from recent testing. All values are well within CDPHE and EPA regulatory limits.
* Representative values. For complete certified test results, see the annual Consumer Confidence Report on the Documents page.
Chlorine residual, turbidity, system pressure
Total coliform bacteria, E. coli (distribution system)
Disinfection byproducts (TTHMs, HAA5s)
Nitrates, nitrites, arsenic, lead, copper, and all regulated inorganic chemicals
Synthetic organic chemicals (SOCs), volatile organic chemicals (VOCs)
Radionuclides, asbestos, and other long-cycle regulated parameters
WATCO draws from the high-elevation alpine watershed surrounding Alpine Lakes Ranch in the San Juan Mountains near Pagosa Springs, Colorado. At approximately 8,000 feet elevation, the source water benefits from natural filtration through granite and alpine soils, resulting in exceptionally low levels of contaminants before treatment even begins.
After collection, the water undergoes treatment — including filtration and disinfection — before entering the distribution system. The system is monitored continuously by licensed operators to ensure consistent quality from source to tap.
Source Protection
The alpine watershed is protected from agricultural and industrial contamination by its remote location and elevation.
Treatment Process
Water is filtered and disinfected with chlorine to meet all CDPHE standards before distribution to property owners.
Distribution Monitoring
Chlorine residual and pressure are monitored throughout the distribution system to ensure water quality is maintained to every tap.
The annual CCR contains certified test results for every monitored parameter. Published each year and available to all property owners.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment licenses and oversees WATCO as a Public Water System.
Federal EPA resources on drinking water standards, regulations, and your rights as a water system customer.
If you have a question or concern about your water quality, contact the WATCO board or licensed operators directly.