Cross Connection-Backflow
One of the many threats to our drinking water supply is known as a Cross-Connection (CC). A CC is the point at which a non-drinking water substance can possibly come in contact with drinking water. Connections such as lawn sprinkler systems or fire sprinkler systems can easily allow contaminants to enter potable (drinking) water lines, via backflow, if they are not properly equipped with Department of Health (DOH) approved backflow preventers. Citizens are often unaware of the potential danger that can lurk in their pipes by improperly installing water-using equipment that allow backflow.
Backflow, caused by back siphonage and/or backpressure, is the unwanted reverse flow of non-potable water back into a water system. Backflow can allow bacteria, chemicals or physical contaminants to enter the water system if CCs are uncontrolled. The City of Woodland’s Water Department takes every precaution possible to prevent CC backflow from entering our distribution system.
The City’s Cross-Connection Control (CCC) Program ensures that customers eliminate CCs whenever possible and control CCs that can’t be eliminated by installing Department of Health (DOH) approved backflow preventers. To better protect public health, the Washington State DOH has revised the CCC regulations for public water systems. All public water systems are required to develop and implement CCC programs.
The City of Woodland’s Water Department has created this information to inform you of the potential threat of cross-connection (CC). The following information consists of the City of Woodland’s adopted ordinances, Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-290-490, brochures on CC and common water terminology definitions.
Compliance
The City of Woodland Requires water customers to test their backflow devices yearly. The city sends out notice reminders when your device is due for testing. Please check out the approved backflow testers list below to find a certified backflow tester. Once your device has been tested, please be sure that your tester or you submit the test results to the City of Woodland Public Works Department. For electronic submission of backflow test reports, please email a PDF copy to Kathryn Myklebust by clicking on the link. Tests can also be mailed to Po Box 9 Woodland, W A98674 or dropped off in person at 230 Davidson Ave Woodland, WA 98674.
| Notice | Number of Days to Submit a Test | Penalty Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Notice | 30 Days | No Penalty Fee |
| 2nd Notice | Additional 30 Days | No Penalty Fee |
| 3rd Notice | Additional 15 Days | $250 Penalty Fee |
| 4th Notice | Additional 15 Days | Another $250 Penalty Fee |
| 5th Notice | Water Service Will be Terminated | $100 Penalty Fee or $100 plus actual cost if the City has to send a tester out due to heat wave emergancy orders issued by the State. |
If you have questions regarding Cross-Connection Control, please call the Public Works Office.
Supporting Documents
| Kathryn Myklebust | Engineering Tech | 360-225-7999, ext 203 | myklebustk@ci.woodland.wa.us |
