The City of Auburn has released its 2024 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report, confirming that the city’s water supply met all state and federal health standards throughout the year. Officials say the findings reflect continued investment in water system infrastructure and source protection.
The city draws its drinking water from Owasco Lake, a Class-AA rated water body considered an excellent source of potable water. In 2024, operators at the Auburn Water Filtration Plant tested for more than 100 potential contaminants. While some were detected, all levels remained well below the maximum limits set by the New York State Department of Health.
The total volume of water produced in 2024 reached 1.63 billion gallons, serving approximately 43,000 people across Auburn and surrounding towns. The report attributes a 27% portion of this water as unmetered—used in operations such as firefighting, street washing, and routine maintenance.
Among the detected substances, nitrate levels averaged 0.96 parts per million (ppm), far below the 10.0 ppm regulatory limit. Total trihalomethanes, byproducts of chlorination, measured an average of 55.92 parts per billion—also within safe thresholds. A total of 25 samples tested for microcystin, a toxin linked to harmful algal blooms, were below advisory levels for all age groups.
The report also addresses lead exposure risks. Sampling showed no sites exceeded the 15 parts per billion action level. However, officials urged residents to identify lead service lines and use certified filters if concerned, especially in homes with young children or pregnant individuals.
The city completed multiple system upgrades in 2024, including the rehabilitation of its century-old slow sand filtration plant and upgrades to water mains on several streets. It also implemented a regular flushing program to reduce disinfection byproducts and conducted leak detection surveys, finding and repairing three major leaks.
Looking ahead, Auburn plans to re-sand its slow sand filters, rehabilitate its rapid sand filters, and continue replacing lead service lines. The report encourages conservation efforts and reminds residents of the city’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high water quality.
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