The City of Branson Utilities Department will hold an informational meeting, regarding the implementation of a Cross Connection Control Program, on Wednesday, July 25, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. This information will pertain to existing City customers that are connected to the City water system and new customers connecting to the City system.

In order to comply with backflow prevention requirements of the Clean Water Act, established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and regulated by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), the City must implement written policies and procedures under a Cross Connection Control Program requiring individual water customers to install, inspect and maintain water backflow prevention devices, where required. This measure will prevent the possibility of contaminates from entering the public water system by backflow of water from an individual customer’s plumbing system.

Mainly commercial customers are affected by these requirements. Residential applications are usually not affected unless there are facilities on the property such as a swimming pool, irrigation system, certain types of sprinkler systems, a private well or some other type of identified cross connection.

The City currently follows MDNR requirements for the installation of backflow prevention devices for all new connections but has not implemented an ordinance specifically outlining the necessary requirements.  Essentially new customers and developments connecting to the City’s water supply will not see any change in the current backflow requirements being followed by the City.  Customers with existing older connections may be required to install devices, if there are none existing but regulations require, or if an existing backflow device does not meet current regulations the customer will need to repair or upgrade their device.

Again, information in this meeting will affect only those customers that are connected or will be connecting to the City of Branson water system. If you are connected to another water system serving your area you are most likely familiar with these requirements as the surrounding water districts have already adopted MDNR backflow prevention requirements.

If you are unable to attend the meeting but would like further information or would rather ask any questions directly please call 417-243-2740 and a Utilities Department staff member will be able to assist you with any needed information.