Water is referred to as hard or soft because of the presence of minerals in the water. In eastern Oklahoma, much of the water used for public water supply comes from lakes (surface water). This water has flowed over the ground in streams or rivers until it reaches a lake where it is stored and eventually consumed. Another type of water - groundwater-flows through soil and permeable rock before it trickles out into a stream and eventually a lake. As water moves, it picks up minerals from the rocks and soil. Two of these minerals, calcium and magnesium, accumulate and create the “hardness” rating of your water. This rating is measured in Parts Per Million (ppm) or Grains Per Gallon (gpg). The more minerals present in the water, the “harder” it is. Bixby’s water is supplied by the City of Tulsa A. B. Jewell Water Treatment Plant which originates at Lake Oologah. The average hardness for A. B. Jewell runs 8.2 grains per gallon (gpg) or 140 parts per million (ppm) and is considered “HARD”. Water hardness is not a safety issue. Water is safe to drink no matter what the hardness rating is.
For more information, please contact the Water Department at 918-366-4430.