Press Release  MassDEP Penalizes Unregistered Public Water System in Middleborough

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has fined 691 Wareham, LLC, $30,754 for operating an unregistered community public water system at its newly constructed apartment development located on Jake’s Path in Middleborough. 

A drinking water supplier is considered a public water system if it provides water for human consumption to at least 15 service connections or regularly serves an average of at least 25 individuals daily for at least 60 days of the year. 691 Wareham exceeded those thresholds and violated state regulations by not registering its water system, not providing ongoing oversight by a certified water operator, and not sampling or reporting water quality data.

“Multi-unit developments like apartment complexes can qualify as public water systems,” said Gerard Martin, director of MassDEP’s southeast regional office in Lakeville. “Because of the direct public health implications, owners are legally required to properly register systems, conduct regular testing, and have professional oversight. Massachusetts’ drinking water regulations are designed to ensure consumers are provided clean and safe drinking water wherever they are located across the state.”

In addition to the $30,754 penalty, 691 Wareham has been registered as a public water system by MassDEP, and the Company is required to immediately hire a certified operator, collect water quality samples and operate its system in compliance with the drinking water regulations. It must also evaluate the proper location for a new well that would comply with all regulatory requirements for public water systems.

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