The Research Triangle Region of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill has always had a reputation for innovation. Founded in 1792, Raleigh depended on springs and wells until the city constructed its Water Works complex in 1887. An innovation for its time, the complex drew from Walnut Creek and delivered filtered water to a 2,500,000-gallon holding reservoir – with further elevated storage provided by the Raleigh Water Tower. By the 20th century, the Raleigh water system expanded to cover the entire metropolitan area, though much has now been renovated or decommissioned for historic preservation.

Nearly 25 miles to the north, Durham underwent a similar development throughout much of the 19th and 20th centuries. Incorporated in 1869, Durham established its first water system and treatment plant along the Eno River, the Huckleberry Hill Reservoir, and the Durham Water Company.

Today, the Raleigh and Durham metropolitan areas operate2 distinctive systems that deliver water to over 1.8 million residents annually. Both cities face similar challenges in maintaining clean, safe drinking water, including naturally occurring minerals and bacteria that diminish Raleigh – Durham water quality.

According to a recent Durham Water Quality report, the city sources from Lake Michie, Little River Reservoir, Jordan Lake, and Teer Quarry. Water moves from Durham’s supply lakes to its two treatment plants: Williams and Brown. Durham tap water may contain low amounts of runoff from fertilizer use, leaching from septic, and erosion of natural deposits. In addition, corrosion of cast iron household plumbing may contaminate water with lead and copper.

A recent Raleigh Water Quality report demonstrates that drinking water complies with all of the EPA’s drinking water standards. However, northern Raleigh residents sometimes complain of rust-colored tap water, caused by high levels of iron and manganese in the groundwater.