The City of North Liberty Water Department (NLWD) produces, on average, 474,000 gallons per day. Our capacity is 1,968,000 GPD. We take pride in producing clean water for drinking, fire protection and industrial use.

Water Quality Reports
We monitor daily for water quality at the Water Treatment Plant as well as have our water analyzed on a regular basis through the University of Iowa Hygienic Laboratory. Water quality is our first priority.

• 2006 Water Quality Report (PDF) - will not be mailed to residents, copies available upon request.
• 2005 Water Quality Report (PDF)
• 2004 Water Quality Report
• 2003 Water Quality Report
• 2002 Water Quality Report
• 2000 Water Quality Report
• 1999 Water Quality Report.
• 1998 Water Quality Report

Take a look at some interesting water trivia...

Well Supply

North Liberty gets its water from four (4) Silurian aquifers and from two (2) Jordan aquifers. Approximately 75% of the water is produced from the Jordan aquifers. We pump approximately 750 gallons per minute (GPM) from our two Jordan wells. On average the Jordan wells run 8.4 hours per day. The Silurian wells can pump from 100 (GPM) to 175 (GPM) depending on which well is operating. The four Silurian wells are alternated daily with the Jordan wells for blending purposes.

Water Towers

Two variable-speed (high service) pumps replenish the water towers on demand. These pumps were part of a recent plant upgrade and are capable of producing over 1,000 gallons per minute. The pumps are alternated on a weekly basis so only one runs at a time.

The two water towers can hold 600,000 gallons of water when full. The 200,000-gallon tower is located at the corner of Cherry and Main Streets. The 400,000-gallon tower is located on 240th Street.

Water Treatment Process

The water treatment process begins the minute water is drawn from the wells into the City's ground storage tank. Raw or untreated water is allowed to cascade down through a series of trays. This is the "Aeration" process. This process increases the surface area of the water and helps remove gases.

Chlorination: The NLWD then injects chlorine for disinfection purposes. This kills disease-causing organisms; the chlorine ensures the continued microbiological safety of the waters.

Filtration: Water is then passed through a rapid sand and gravel filter. The filter is important for the removal of suspended matter.

Softening: The Water Department houses a water softening system that lowers the hardness of all treated water to 7-10 grains of hardness. This is compared to approximately 28 grains prior to treatment. Individuals who prefer totally softened water (zero grains of hardness) should implement a home softening system. Contact your water softener manufacturer for information on adjusting your unit to the City's pre-softened water.

Distribution: From here, the finished water is pumped directly to the two water towers. The towers provide hydraulic pressure throughout the distribution system. The distribution system serves homes and businesses in North Liberty.

Wellhead Protection Plan

The City of North Liberty Water Department is currently working with the Iowa Rural Water Association (IRWA) in completing a Wellhead Protection plan (WHP) for the city. We will take control measures to minimize impacts to our water supply. The area surrounding our wells need to be protected from contamination. We will identify all hazards or hazardous activities within the Wellhead Protection Area (WHPA) that could pose a threat to our water supply. For more information on the WHP, please contact me at the number listed below.

Water Bills

The North Liberty Water Department reads water meters on the 20th of every month. Water bills go out on the first of the month and bills are due by the 15th of that month. The North Liberty Water Department can and will terminate water service, after proper notification, for delinquent water bills.

Contact Information

North Liberty Water Department Superintendent - Greg Metternich
Michael Pentecost
Mike Keating
Phone (319) 626-5719