Water

Providing quality drinking water has always been our top priority. We also believe the best way to assure you that the water is safe is by providing you with accurate information about the way the water is treated. The Vermillion Water Department has eight staff members that are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the plant facilities and distribution system. Please contact the Water Department if you would like a tour of the water plant. 

Source & Treatment Process

Vermillion's water supply originates in an underground layer of water called an aquifer. The water comes from the Lower Missouri River Out-Wash Aquifer. Vermillion's wells tap into the aquifer at a depth of about 100 feet. All the water is pumped to the treatment plant and then aerated to remove dissolved gasses. From there it is pumped to an up-flow basin where softening agents are added to remove hardness.

Next, the water is pumped to a re-carbonation basin where carbon dioxide is added to control pH, from there it goes through a filtration process. After filtration, chlorine is added, next the water is pumped into a reservoir, then to the water towers. Finally, water flows by gravity to the distribution system and then finally to your faucet.

Water Testing

The water is tested daily for hardness, alkalinity, chlorine and fluoride levels. Ten bacteria tests are performed each month, with quarterly tests for other specific contaminants as required by the Environmental Protection Agency and state law. Vermillion has been fortunate that the water source has remained free from contamination with consistent quality over the years. View the lead and copper test results (PDF).

Treatment Plant & Distribution System

The Melvin D. Stiegelmeyer Water Treatment Plant was built in 1972 and has a firm treating capacity of 3.6 million gallons per day. The plant is operated 16 hours a day, 365 days per year. The distribution system consists of water mains, water meters, fire hydrants, one storage reservoir and two water towers. The Distribution Department installs and maintains water services from the water main to the curb box, which is a valve located near the curb.

Quick Facts

• 454 fire hydrants in service
• 50 miles of water main ranging in size from 4 inches to 16 inches in diameter
• Three water storage facilities: a 1.5 million gallon ground storage reservoir and two 550,000 gallon elevated towers

Rates

Visit the Utility Billing section for current water rates, tapping fees and other charges.