Clean, reliable drinking water is one of the most important services HCMUD 71 provides. The District operates under strict regulations established by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure that drinking water meets or exceeds all state and federal safety standards.
HCMUD 71 obtains its drinking water from groundwater wells that draw from the Evangeline Aquifer in Harris County. This water is disinfected with chlorine, as required by state and federal regulations, before it enters the District’s distribution system. This process eliminates harmful microorganisms and helps ensure that the water delivered to residents remains safe and clean.
Every stage of the District’s water system is carefully monitored to maintain quality and reliability. TCEQ requires routine testing for a wide range of water quality indicators, including disinfectant levels, pH balance, and the presence of naturally occurring minerals and trace elements. The District also tests for potential contaminants such as bacteria, nitrates, lead, and copper according to federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards. Testing is conducted at multiple points throughout the system, from the source wells to the storage tanks to customer connections, to ensure consistent quality.
Water samples are analyzed by state-approved laboratories, and results are reviewed by TCEQ. If any sample does not meet established limits, the District is required to take immediate corrective action and notify regulators. These safeguards ensure that potential issues are identified and addressed promptly to protect public health.
Each year, residents receive a Consumer Confidence Report, also known as an Annual Drinking Water Quality Report, which summarizes all testing results for the previous calendar year. The report provides detailed information on the District’s water sources, detected substances, and compliance with state and federal standards. Copies of the report are made available through the District’s website and distributed to all customers as required by law.
To further protect the system, HCMUD 71 maintains active disinfection processes at all times using chlorine residuals approved by TCEQ. The District also conducts routine flushing of water lines to remove sediment and maintain water clarity. Storage tanks, wells, and valves are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure proper operation and prevent contamination.
Water quality management also depends on residents. Backflow prevention devices are required for irrigation systems and other potential cross-connections to prevent non-potable water from entering the District’s system. Residents should report any sudden changes in water clarity, pressure, or odor to the District’s water operator, Regional Water Corporation, at (281) 897-9100.
By maintaining rigorous testing, modern infrastructure, and ongoing coordination with state and federal agencies, HCMUD 71 ensures that its water supply remains clean, safe, and reliable for all residents.