Brookline Community Letter 2023

Erin Chute Gallentine Commissioner 
James W. Hersey, P.E. Director

Dear Water Customer:

The Annual Water Quality Report provides information on the quality of the drinking water supplied by the Town of Brookline. We are pleased to be working with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority MWRA on this joint communication about the drinking water arriving at your homes and businesses. This annual report provides detailed information on the MWRA’s source water reservoirs, which are the sole source of water distributed within Brookline, and the quality of water as determined through federal and state testing guidelines. Water quality test data, and  the definition of the terms used in the drinking water industry are presented in clear and readily understandable language. Water quality information and related health effects of contaminants are also provided.  

We continue our efforts to make the Town’s water system more efficient.  In 2023 the following improvements were completed:  we installed, repaired, or replaced 216 service pipe connections, repaired 20 service and main leaks, and repaired or replaced 23 fire hydrants.
Brookline has a Cross Connection Control and Prevention Program (CCCP) to protect the water distribution system from contamination. The Certified Backflow Inspectors/Testers survey sites, test the devices, and review and approve new devices before installation. The Town operates under the state DEP regulation 310 CMR 22.22. The Water & Sewer Division also has continued an ongoing uni-directional flushing program designed to remove tuberculation and sediments from water mains. The program involves closing water gates and forcing water flow at high velocities, which scours the water mains. Each year, MWRA and local water departments test tap water in homes that are likely to have high lead and copper levels.  The following are the most recent results:
 

2023 Lead & Copper Results

The Town of Brookline is committed to providing its residents with the best quality water possible. As our customers, we hope that you will find this report informative and useful. If you would like more information on a particular topic, public meetings, or have a specific question, please call the Water & Sewer Division office at 617-730-2170, or contact the MWRA directly using the phone numbers listed in this report.

Sincerely,

James W. Hersey, P.E., Director
Brookline Department of Public Works
Water & Sewer Division