IID reminds public that canal water is not safe for consumption

The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) is reminding the public that canal water is not safe for human consumption.

IID officials issued a statement on Tuesday which states that canal water should not be used for drinking, cooking, oral hygiene, ice preparation and even showering.

The IID has about 3,000 small-acreage pipe account customers, who are all expected to receive notice this week, according to the statement.

Officials say these customers are required to have a water provider deliver an alternative, suitable, water supply for consumption.

“The quality of the canal water has not changed,” said Tina Shields, Water Department manager, “We just want to remind customers that there may be disease risks if pathogens are present in untreated canal water, so an approved water source needs to be used for human consumption.”

The district has contractual arrangements with approved water delivery providers to ensure delivery service is continuously maintained.

For more information on this you can call the IID at (760) 339-9191 or visit their website at http://www.iid.com/water/service-pipe-customers/safe-drinking-water-act