Water report

Dear Editor:The Downey Annual Water Quality Report for year 2011 is an outstanding publication. It contains important facts about our water supply: where it originates; how, when and where it is tested; numbers of sites tested; and a host of other facts. An interesting item it contains: We are once again proud to present our annual water quality report covering all testing performed in 2011. Over the years, we have dedicated ourselves to providing drinking water that meets all state and federal standards. We are committed to delivering you the best quality drinking water possible." During World War II a great deal of manufacturing for the aircraft industry and ship building occurred in this area. We are fortunate there is no evidence of groundwater contamination from this activity. One important subject covered is tap versus bottled water. "Thanks in part to aggressive marketing, the bottled water industry has successfully convinced many that water purchased in bottles is a healthier alternative to tap water. However, according to a four-year study conducted by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), bottled water is not necessarily cleaner or safer than most tap water. In fact, about 25 percent of bottled water is actually just bottled tap water (40 percent, according to government estimates). Many of us go to the faucet or reach for a bottle of water several times a day with never a thought of its importance. We can survive for a month without food but we can only survive about four days without water. The most effective way to replenish our water need is drinking pure, fresh water. Get your free "Annual Water Quality Report" as it contains all you ever wanted to know about water but were afraid to ask! Byron Dillon Downey

********** Published: July 19, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 14