Water Quality

The material on this page will give our customers information on the water quality, required reporting and testing, water hardness, and other frequently asked questions. If you have any questions relating to water quality, please call the office at (520) 382-2570. Visit the following link to ask your questions to Marana Water Quality.

Ask a Question

Water Quality

Lead and Copper Rule

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted guidelines for municipal water providers to test the lead and copper levels in residential properties. Click the button below to learn how we test for these minerals and when testing in your area will occur.

Lead and Copper

Water Hardness

Water Hardness Classification table. Classifications (Soft, Moderately Hard, Hard, Very Hard), Grains per Gallon (gpg) and Milligrams per Liter (mg/L) or Parts per Million (ppm)

Hard water is high in dissolved calcium and magnesium. This is naturally occurring, and happens as water moves through rocks and sediments, dissolving them along the way. Hard water can cause buildup and scale on water appliances and could necessitate the use of more shampoo or detergent to get clean. For more information from the EPA on hard water, visit the EPA website.

Many people use water softeners to treat for hard water. Water softeners work by ion exchange, where the calcium and magnesium are exchanged with sodium or potassium from the softener. When this exchange is complete, the by-product of the ion exchange is discharged into the sewer system and ends up in the wastewater. If you are installing a water softener or have other questions about water hardness, check out the water hardness table data.

Water Hardness Table(PDF, 96KB)

Water Quality Testing and Sampling

Marana Water currently operates and maintains seven potable water systems. Providing safe, clean drinking water to these systems is assured through scheduled testing. A wide variety of potential contaminants are tested under State and Federal regulations.

Each year, hundreds of samples are collected from various sites; such as Entry Points into the Distribution System (EPDS), source water from wells and reservoirs, and our water treatment campuses. Marana Water also samples from 36 designated “sampling stations” located in neighborhoods throughout the water distribution system. The sample stations are specifically selected to represent the water quality delivered to our customers. Required sampling is also performed at private residences for lead and copper analysis. The department provides all water quality testing results to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and works with the agency to ensure all federal and state standards are met.

Marana Water staffs State-Certified operators who vigilantly maintain the production, distribution and water quality of the Marana water systems. Our operators are licensed and attend continuing education and training required by ADEQ. Additionally, comprehensive emergency response plans (ERP) have been developed to ensure an immediate response to any adverse water situation.

Backflow Prevention

WHAT IS BACKFLOW?

Backflow is the undesired reversal of water flow against normal direction, which can cause contaminants to enter into the drinking water supply system. Backflow prevention devices, or assemblies, are used to protect potable drinking water from contaminants and pollutants. There are two causes for backflow: back-pressure and back-siphonage. Having a backflow program protects our water supply.

HOW DO BACKFLOW ASSEMBLIES WORK?

There are several types of backflow assemblies. Marana Water requires a Reduced Pressure Assembly (RPA) because it provides the most protection. These assemblies contain two check valves separated by a reduced pressure zone. When properly operating, the pressure between the check valves is maintained lower than the pressure of the water supply. However, if either of these check valves leaks, water will be released from the relief valve. When this happens, maintenance or replacement of the assembly is required.

WHERE CAN BACKFLOW ASSEMBLIES BE FOUND?

Example of an installed backflow assembly

Backflow assemblies are typically found in commercial and industrial buildings, buildings three stories or more, multi-family residences, and homes where there is more than one source of water like untreated well water.

Marana is unique in that there are some neighborhoods in Gladden Farms and Rancho Marana where non-potable irrigation water is provided by the Cortaro-Marana Irrigation District (CMID), which requires a backflow assembly to prevent irrigation water from entering the potable drinking water system. These assemblies require annual testing to ensure the community water system is continually protected.

What are the customer responsibilities for the backflow?

The backflow must be tested annually by a certified backflow tester that is registered with Marana Water. The link below includes all registered testers.

Failure to have the test completed could result in disconnection of the potable water until the test is done with a passing result.

Who is responsible for having the backflow assemblies tested?

The person or company who is listed as the responsible party for the water service with Marana Water is responsible for the annual testing of the assembly by a certified tester. This person is also responsible for maintaining records of maintenance and backflow prevention requirements. All tenants should contact the landlord to see if backflow testing is covered in the lease agreement.

Regardless of the rental/owner status of the home,  if the backflow assembly is not tested properly, it could lead to disconnection of the POTABLE water supply until the assembly is in compliance.

Check the chart below for the approximate timing of each neighborhood's testing schedule. For customers needing to get a backflow assembly test, click the link below for a list of testers certified with Marana Water.

 
 
 
The dates listed to the right are general time frames. Please wait for your letter from Marana Water with further instructions before scheduling to have your backflow assembly tested
(PDF, 69KB)

Approved Backflow Tester List(PDF, 69KB)

 

 

How can I tell if my backflow test passed?

Customers who have contracted with a tester should be notified immediately, by the contractor, if their backflow passed. If there is a question as to the status of the test, please call our office at (520) 382-2570.

What to do when a backflow assembly fails.

If a failing test is received, the assembly should be repaired or replaced within 7 days of the failed test date. Contact your backflow tester to inquire if they provide repair services. The Tester Link above has testers certified with Marana Water. If replacement is the only solution, a permit is required from Marana Water. The permit can be found by clicking here.

Permits must be submitted at least 24 hours prior to the new assembly installation to schedule the required staff inspection. There is a $35 permit fee, and a passing test is required upon installation.

Is a backflow assembly always required?

Yes, for commercial and industrial customers, multi-family residences, and buildings over three stories. Additionally, connections to the system where an alternative water source is present, such as an untreated well water. Installation of a new backflow assembly requires the permit found by clicking here, and payment of the $80 new backflow assembly fee.

Residential disconnection of a backflow assembly.

Homes that are currently receiving non-potable irrigation water from CMID may disconnect from the non-potable system. The disconnection requires removal of 3-5 feet of non-potable irrigation line from the non-potable service. The non-potable service must be locked by CMID personnel. A final inspection is performed by Marana Water. By eliminating a second source of water to the home, the home is eligible to remove the backflow assembly if desired. If the backflow assembly remains installed, annual tests will not be required unless the non-potable service is re-connected. The following conditions MUST be met to complete disconnection from the non-potable system:

  • Complete the disconnection permit found here. The process will not start until this permit has been submitted and the $40 inspection fee has been applied to the customer account
    • Indicate the preferred date for lock-off of the non-potable meter on the permit. Marana Water will confirm when the lock-off has been completed.
    • Once the non-potable service has been locked off, removal of the 3-5 feet of irrigation line may begin. This step is the responsibility of the homeowner. When completed, please contact Marana Water at (520) 382-2523 to schedule the inspection.
  • If the customer wishes to connect their home irrigation system to the private potable water plumbing system, a permit is required from the Town’s Development Services Department. The permit type would be an “upgrade or new installation.” For more information on obtaining a permit, contact Development Services at (520) 382-2600. Marana Water does notify Development Services of homes requesting disconnection of the non-potable system, and failure to secure a permit could result in a fine.

In the event the customer wishes to reconnect the non-potable irrigation system, the following steps must be taken:

  • If the backflow assembly was removed, an assembly must be installed, permitted ($80 fee), tested by a certified backflow tester and inspected by Marana Water personnel prior to CMID reconnect. The assembly will be scheduled for testing on its assigned development group date (this may require the assembly to be tested initially twice in one year) and will require annual testing thereafter.
  • All assemblies installed at residences with second source irrigation water must be reduced pressure backflow assemblies (RPA).
  • If the assembly was never removed from the home, Marana Water will inspect the original installation ($40 fee) and verify the serial number in the backflow database. A passing test, from a certified and Marana Water approved backflow tester, will be required prior to CMID reconnect. The assembly will be scheduled for testing on its assigned development group date (this may require the assembly to be initially tested twice in one year) and will require annual testing thereafter.

Information for Backflow Testers

To be able to test backflow assemblies in Marana Water service area, we require a short orientation and there is a $30 fee to be added to the list. This fee is due at time of orientation for new testers. For existing testers, this fee will be assessed annually. Failure to pay the fee will result in removal from the certified backflow tester list.

Marana Water is in the process of transitioning to a new backflow testing database system, called SAMS X-Connection. The following link can be used to access the website: https://crossconnection.njbsoft.com/TucsonUniversalPortal/SAMSLogin2FA.aspx

Registration on the site is required and can be done by clicking on the registration button:

  • Please make sure you look at the training module. For the tester training, the real substance starts at the 21-minute mark.
  • You will need letter codes to enter tests.  Please coordinate with your customers to get the codes. 
  • You can update your backflow certificates and gauge information
Please forward all questions toBackflow@MaranaAz.gov.

Consumer Confidence Reports

Every year the Water Department publishes a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) for each water system. To ensure all customers have access to the information, copies of the most recent reports are below. Please use the map for a reference to find which water system services your home.

CCR Map 04-2024

2023 Reports

  1. 2023 Picture Rocks(PDF, 369KB)
  2. 2023 Airline/Lambert(PDF, 425KB)
  3. 2023 Marana Municipal(PDF, 597KB)
  4. 2023 Hartman Vistas(PDF, 427KB)
  5. 2023 Palo Verde(PDF, 425KB)
  6. Airport - Available upon Request
  7. Tangerine Business Park - Available upon Request
  8. 2023 Silverbell Gateway(PDF, 414KB)

2022 Reports

  1. 2022 Picture Rocks(PDF, 384KB)
  2. 2022 Airline/Lambert(PDF, 402KB)
  3. 2022 Marana Municipal(PDF, 387KB)
  4. 2022 Hartman Vistas(PDF, 395KB)
  5. 2022 Palo Verde(PDF, 399KB)
  6. Airport - Available upon Request
  7. Tangerine Business Park - Available upon Request

2021 Reports

  1. 2021 Picture Rocks(PDF, 384KB)
  2. 2021 Airline/Lambert(PDF, 428KB)
  3. 2021 Marana Municipal(PDF, 596KB)
  4. 2021 Hartman Vistas(PDF, 425KB)
  5. 2021 Palo Verde(PDF, 423KB)
  6. Airport - Available upon Request
  7. Tangerine Business Park - Available upon Request

Pre-2021 Reports


PFAS and Unregulated Compounds

A message from MARANA Water:

In April of 2024, the EPA established Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL) for six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).  Subsequently, additional Marana Water wells have been affected by the MCL. These new MCLs are much lower than the initial health advisory limits of 70 parts per trillion set in 2016, in which Marana Water had been proactive in the past in delivering PFAS within those respective limits.

Marana Water owns and operates a municipal potable water system located in six individually designated public water systems and has already constructed two (2) existing water treatment campuses (WTCs) which treat water from three potable wells for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) (particularly perfluorooctyl sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)), and 1,4-dioxane.

Prior to the 2024 MCL, in July of 2023, Marana Water commissioned a groundwater treatment feasibility study to evaluate alternatives for groundwater quality improvements. Recent water quality monitoring results for potable production wells not treated at the existing WTCs indicate the presence of PFAS at concentrations exceeding the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) MCLs for PFAS.

This study analyzed water quality data for all Marana Water potable water production wells and identified areas with concentrations exceeding the MCLs and the existing Health Advisory (HA) level where treatment should be considered. Key information including well production, duty cycles, and most recent water quality data were summarized for each well. Based on this analysis, four water quality improvement sites were developed and include the treatment of both existing and future potable water production wells. Proposed sites are:

  • Site 1 – Marana Park (the Town has secured a WIFA loan of $7,179,899 w/$4,500,000 forgivable principal for PFAS Treatment))
  • Site 2 – Pioneer Well (the Town has received federal funding of $1.75 million for PFAS Treatment)
  • Site 3 – Heritage Park
  • Site 4 – Airport NW Well

At Marana Water, we continue to take a steady and proactive approach in delivering the highest quality water possible to the community.

For more information on the regulated and unregulated compounds, and an Interactive Water Quality Map, please see below.

FAQs

PFAS FAQS:

WHAT IS PFOA AND PFOS? HOW IS IT USED?

PFOA and PFOS are part of a larger group of chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) that were widely used in commercial products. They have a strong ability to repel other compounds so they were commonly used as stain protection on fabrics and clothing, non-stick cookware, furniture protection, paper food packaging protection (i.e. microwave popcorn bags, to-go food containers, etc.), as well as in firefighting foams. Most of the companies that use these compounds have phased out their use over the last ten years. However, because the compounds are highly stable and resistant to breakdown, they are commonly still found in the environment. 

HOW CAN PFOA AND PFOS IN THE WATER AFFECT MY HEALTH?

The USEPA is continually testing and researching the likelihood that these compounds can be harmful in drinking water. While the research continues, the USEPA has established a lifetime health advisory of 70 parts per trillion for combined concentrations of PFOA and PFOS in order to protect the most sensitive populations:  fetuses during pregnancy and breastfed and/or formula-fed infants. Those included in the sensitive populations who consume water from a water system that has shown PFAs levels greater than the health advisory, you may want to take steps to limit or avoid consumption of water directly from the tap. While the department works on the next steps to address this issue, you may be able to treat water at home to reduce the levels of these compounds.

SHOULD I STOP BREASTFEEDING MY INFANT?

EPA encourages women and people who are currently pregnant, nursing, or bottle feeding an infant with formula to consult with their physician regarding concerns related to breastfeeding and potential exposure to chemicals such as PFOA, PFOS, GenX chemicals, and PFBS. For more information about PFAS and breastfeeding, visit the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

WHAT CAN I DO TO REDUCE MY EXPOSURE TO PFAS?

With respect to PFAs, there are two types of treatment that have shown to be somewhat effective in reducing or eliminating these compounds from the water. These treatments are activated carbon and reverse osmosis. Activated carbon filters are relatively common and can be found at most grocery stores and home improvement stores. Examples of these devices are filtering water pitchers and in-line refrigerator filters. Use of these devices has shown a positive effect in reducing or eliminating PFAs, as well as others. Here is a link to a study using University of Arizona research showing the effectiveness of a few of these devices.  All in home treatment devices require consistent maintenance and care in order to remain effective. 

DOES BATHING/SHOWERING WITH MY TAP WATER PRESENT A HEALTH RISK?

Studies have shown that only a small amount of PFAS can get into your body through skin. Hence, neither bathing nor showering are likely to be primary routes of PFOA, PFOS, GenX chemicals, or PFBS exposure.

CAN I BOIL PFAS OUT OF MY WATER?

No. These chemicals cannot be removed by heating or boiling water.

SHOULD I DRINK BOTTLED WATER?

Deciding whether to buy and drink bottled water is a personal choice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food, including bottled water. The FDA has not established standards for any PFAS in bottled water at this time, but now that EPA has finalized these standards, FDA is required under Section 410 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to evaluate what PFAS standards are appropriate for bottled water.

FDA has analyzed for PFAS in bottled water (carbonated and non-carbonated) through a targeted survey (2016) and through the FDA’s Total Diet Study samples. Results from the studies did not detect PFAS in any sample. The FDA is currently conducting an additional targeted survey for PFAS in bottled water and results will be posted on the FDA’s website when complete. If you have questions about bottled water, please contact the FDA at: 1-888INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332).

Individuals who are concerned about PFAS in their water may wish to consider in-home water treatment filters that are certified to lower PFAS levels in water. Learn more about these filters: https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-04/water-filter-fact-sheet.pdf.

SHOULD I USE A FILTER TO REDUCE LEVELS OF PFAS IN MY WATER?

The more you reduce your exposure to PFAS, the more you reduce your risk. Many water pitcher filters and other home-based water filters are able to reduce the levels of PFAS in drinking water. If you decide to use a filter, look for ones that are certified to reduce PFAS. Be aware that current filters on the market will not yet be certified to reduce PFAS to the new EPA standard, but the added filtration they provide can help reduce your exposure. For more information: https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-04/water-filter-fact-sheet.pdf.

IF SYSTEMS HAVE FIVE YEARS TO COMPLY WITH THE RULE, WHAT SHOULD I DO UNTIL THEN IF I'M CONCERNED ABOUT PFAS IN MY WATER?

EPA understands that the PFAS final rule will require some public water systems to make significant investments and that it will take time for them to plan and construct the treatment systems or take other actions they need to comply. That’s why the rule allows systems the flexibility and time to determine the best solutions for their community.

EPA also understands that people may be concerned about the PFAS in their drinking water today. If you are concerned about PFAS in your drinking water, EPA recommends contacting your local water utility. Your utility can tell you more about your drinking water, including what contaminants may be present, if they are monitoring for PFAS, what the levels are, and to see whether any actions are being taken. Some public drinking water systems may not have this information at this time. If you choose to test your water yourself, it is important to use a state-certified laboratory using EPA-developed testing methods. You can also contact your state environmental protection agency or health department and your local water utility to find out what actions they recommend. If you remain concerned about PFAS in your drinking water, you may consider installing in-home water treatment (e.g., filters) that are certified to lower the levels of PFAS in your water. For more information: https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-04/water-filter-fact-sheet.pdf.

Interactive Water Quality Map

Use the map below to check the water quality of your residence: Use the search bar below to determine which water provider serves your home. When searching for an address be sure to include the directional (N, S, E, W), for example 11555 W Civic Center Dr, not 11555 Civic Center Dr.

1,4 - DIOXANE

WHAT IS 1,4-DIOXANE? HOW IS IT USED?

1,4-dioxane is solvent stabilizer that is commonly used with other chemicals and products such as paints and waxes. It is also found in many regular household items such as shampoos, colognes, perfumes, and even some food products.

HOW CAN 1,4-DIOXANE IN THE WATER AFFECT MY HEALTH?

Toxicological studies have yet to positively prove 1,4-dioxane is carcinogenic. However, the EPA is currently studying the effects of 1,4-dioxane in drinking water. They currently believe it is "likely" to cause cancer with long term exposure, though not definitive. The current guideline for drinking water is on a calculated risk potential that a person may have a one in one million chance for a health affect after drinking 2 liters per day for 70 years of water that is at or above a concentration of 0.35 ppb.

WHAT CAN I DO TO REDUCE MY EXPOSURE TO 1,4-DIOXANE?

Since it is so widely used in common household products, people are exposed to 1,4-dioxane in many areas of their lives.  Review the list of compounds included in personal care and household products to identify if they contain any of the following words: PEG, Polyethylene, Polyethylene Glycol, Polyoxyethylene, -oxynol, -eth. Exposure to 1,4-dioxane can often be associated with the use of personal care products that contain these types of ingredients.

QUICK LINKS FOR 1,4-DIOXANE

1,4-dioxane Fact Sheet

If you would like to contact the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) regarding unregulated compounds, click here. 

Project Water

Please enjoy these videos highlighting the construction of these two water treatment campuses and the grand opening event!

Thank You from All of Us!

Grand Opening Zoom Recording

Time Lapse of Airline/Lambert Site Construction

Time Lapse of Picture Rocks Site Construction

Resolution No. 2018-091

Town Council approved Resolution No. 2018-091 on Tuesday, September 25 authorizing the creation of the Picture Rocks water treatment campus and the Airline/Lambert water treatment campus capital projects. Below are project updates, and more can be found on our Instagram page @MaranaWater. 

Updates

August 2021

In August of 2018, Town of Marana Council made a unanimous decision to pursue the design and construction of a water treatment facility for each of the two impacted systems in Marana Water found to contain unregulated compounds (PFOS & 1,4-dioxane). These unregulated compounds currently do not have a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) applied by the EPA, but do have health advisories applicable. The decision was made to construct these water treatment facilities after evaluating several solutions, including blending alternatives and other water sources. Constructing water treatment facilities in each of the impacted systems was considered to be the most effective solution to providing safe, clean drinking water now and for future development. Construction of both Water Treatment Campuses (Picture Rocks – Continental Reserve Area, & Airline/Lambert – Saguaro Bloom Area) commenced in January 2020.

The below graphic illustrates an example of the treatment process that we are using at the water treatment campuses.

Simplified Process Flow Schematic

The Picture Rocks Water Treatment Campus and the Airline/Lambert Water Treatment Campus reached operational status on March 12th, 2021. Sampling results of the water being introduced into the respective systems from both treatment facilities continue to show successful removal of both of these non-regulated compounds (PFOS & 1,4-dioxane).

October/November 2020

In October and November installation of process piping and the installation of electrical instrumentation equipment commenced. The final site civil work, grading, site walls, and miscellaneous concrete slabs and sidewalk work activities were completed. Additionally, connectivity of automation and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) networks began. SCADA is what will allow us to monitor and control the operation remotely.

AL Fill Line Postcard

Steel piping with Victaulic couplings, fittings, and valves are primarily being used for above grade piping at both project sites. Piping systems were ordered to length using a three dimensional model developed for each site based on as-builts of the previously installed underground piping and the design of the new process equipment. As the piping systems were being completed, tie-ins to the existing piping at both wells and backwash water connections were performed during planned outages overnight with which followed schedules planned hour by hour in order to reduce service disruptions to existing customers.

We have been very fortunate thus far that the majority of work and equipment has been installed as planned, but a few critical items have been unavoidably delayed as a result of various equipment suppliers being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This included electrical equipment and mechanical equipment required for the well modifications which is one of the last steps to be completed at both sites. Modifications to the Saguaro Bloom well at the Airline/Lambert Water Treatment Campus is scheduled to is now scheduled to be completed December 2 – 12. Postcards were sent to customers requesting to conserve water during this time period.

Full process testing is now anticipated to be performed mid-December, pending final delivery of materials. Final approval from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is required and we anticipate being fully operational in mid-January.

August/September 2020

The last few months saw the continued arrival and installation of the treatment process equipment and electrical equipment. The UV vessels and its specific electrical components were installed at both sites. Additionally, GAC vessels were set in anticipation to connecting (piping) up to the new process system in the near future.

The GAC vessels were delivered and installed at both locations. Each vessel is paired with another vessel and has two sets which will function in a lead/lag mode. Each site has four vessels which are mechanically piped into a manifold for the various modes needed to run the GAC vessels. They were constructed offsite in California and transported on several semi low boy loads. Once onsite, temporary roads and grading to accommodate the low trailer loads were constructed to get the vessels and crane positioned to unload the vessels, manifolds, and pipe. It was a great job of planning, coordination, and communication between AqueosVets and the Archer Western team to pull it off without any issues.

Upcoming work in October and November will include the installation of process equipment, completion of mechanical piping, and startup/commissioning. A significant effort on instrumentation and control is planned to be completed as the sites will be fully automated. On the water supply side, modifications to increase pumping capacities and new electrical services to the existing well sites are planned to be completed as well. Startup of equipment and functional testing is anticipated to begin in October. Full operational testing and installation of GAC media are scheduled for November.”

Airline Lambert Treatment Campus
Pictured here is the Airline Lambert treatment campus. The GAC tanks at this site are the four smaller tanks on the far left of the picture. The large building in the middle of the picture houses the UV equipment.

Picture Rocks Treatment Campus
Overhead picture of the Picture Rocks Treatment Campus. The GAC vessels are the four tan smaller tanks in the lower middle of the picture.

June/July 2020

June and July wrapped up the installation of underground process piping and the concrete slabs that house the process equipment. The UV buildings were dried-in (roof and doors) and interior conduits were installed awaiting delivery of the UV equipment. Equipment slabs and electrical gear were installed in July.

Also in July, the backwash tanks were delivered and installed at both locations. Each backwash tank is 17 feet in diameter and 22 feet tall, and has a volume of approximately 35,000 gallons. They were constructed offsite, in Tucson, and transported in the middle of the night with a police escort. What normally would have been a 30 minute drive took nearly 5 hours due to the oversize load and conflicts with more than 40 overhead structures (utilities, bridges and signage) along the route. Once onsite, temporary roads and grading to accommodate the low and wide load were constructed to get the tanks and two cranes positioned. There was great effort in planning, coordination, and communication between Smyth Industries of Tucson and the Archer Western team to pull it off without any issues.

Upcoming work in August and September will include the installation of process equipment and mechanical piping. A significant effort on instrumentation and control is also planned. On the water supply side, modifications to increase pumping capacities and new electrical services to the existing well sites are planned. Startup of equipment and functional testing is anticipated to begin in late September, with full operational testing scheduled for late October. Visit @MaranaWater on Instagram to view the latest construction update video.

April/May 2020

During the months of April and May our contractor, Archer Western, continued installing (at both locations) masonry walls, underground piping and electrical ductwork, along with performing concrete pour activities for footings and foundations to support and anchor the water treatment equipment and associated accessories.

Upcoming work for June and July will include structural steel and roof decking for the UV buildings, pouring tank ring walls for the backwash tanks, concrete placement for the sediment removal systems and slabs-on-grade for the granular activated carbon (GAC) vessels. The long-lead equipment items that had been previously ordered in December/January continue to be delivered and installed sequentially.

Check out this video where we walk through some of the construction being done at the sites. Check out the Marana Water Instagram page, @MaranaWater, for more photos/videos and updates.

February/March 2020

Archer Western has been hard at work readying the site. They have finished with the over excavation of the existing material and replaced it with properly compacted material to prevent settlement. They also did some trenching for footings and foundations for future construction. In addition, they have started installing the required underground piping and electrical ductwork. Many of the items and equipment needed for the treatment process require concrete footings and foundations to act as support and anchors. Archer Western has begun the process of pouring these foundations to get the site ready for equipment delivery.

Airline Lambert Stem Wall for UV BuildingRocks 03-18-2020

The two pictures here show the progress at both construction sites. The one on the far left shows the concrete pour for the side wall for the UV building at the Airline/Lambert site while the one on the right shows the excavation work being done at the Pictures Rocks location.

The treatment process has several pieces of specialized equipment that needed to be ordered well in advance. These long-lead items were ordered in December and January and we expect them to be delivered and installed soon, and on schedule. Keep up with the construction by following our Instagram page @MaranaWater.

December 2019/January 2020

Our contractor, Archer Western, began mobilizing to both sites the week of December 9. This included setting up temporary offices, establishing utility connections, temporary fencing, delivering equipment and storage containers. Since then, the sites have been cleared, grubbed and portions of the existing walls have been demolished according to the design plans.

During the design process we determined that the soil conditions were not suitable to support the new facilities without modification. This required over excavation of the existing material and replacement with properly compacted material to prevent settlement. This excavation process started in December and will continue for a few more weeks. Next, we will begin installation of some of the underground piping, which will begin in late February. Check out the Marana Water Instagram page, @MaranaWater, for more photos and updates. Below shows work done during the week of January 27th. On the left is the Picture Rocks location and the right shows the excavation at the Airline/Lambert site.

Picture RocksAirline/Lambert site

September through November saw all the final touches to the design plans and specifications for both treatment campuses. In October, final plans and specifications were submitted to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) for review. ADEQ reviews the project details to ensure that the proposed plans meet all applicable regulatory requirements, and once approved, will issue an “Approval to Construct” authorization from the State prior to construction.

In our August/September update, we talked about GMPs and the purchase of items that have a long lead time. We have issued GMP 1 and began the process of securing these items with our contractor, Archer Western, and equipment vendors. We have also reviewed and updated cost models for GMP 2 after additional reviews of the plans and bids from subcontractors and material suppliers Archer Western received. To ensure we got the best pricing available, we had multiple contractors bid on items like piping, bag fillers, granular activated carbon, steel tanks, sand separators, doors, masonry, asphalt and much more. While the overall cost of the project did increase over the original estimate of $15M to just over $16M, Town Council approved an increase in expenditure authority to cover these additional costs. Just like the $15M, we were able to secure a loan from WIFA to cover the expenses. Additionally, thanks to recently updated policy changes to the WIFA program, a portion of our second loan include forgivable principal, meaning the Town does not have to pay this portion back.

December is going to be a busy month for the two sites. We will issue a notice to proceed on GMP 2 on December 6, and the contractor will begin mobilizing as soon as December 4. You can expect to see construction equipment, offices, storage containers, temporary fencing, and other items on both sites soon. We are still on track for a Fall 2020 completion date. Be sure to check our the new Marana Water Instagram page @MaranaWater to get more updates and pictures throughout the project.

August/September 2019

The 90% plan submittal was received by Marana Water in the last week of August and review began immediately by all team members. This includes the careful review (see June/July update) of every detail included on over 330 drawings and over 1600 pages of specifications. Because the water treatment campuses will be constructed at existing facilities that must remain operational during construction, the design also incorporates additional components such as additional piping and valves to minimize service interruptions while connecting the new treatment systems to the existing facilities. In fact, most tie-ins on projects like these will take place at night so most customers won’t notice any change in service. These tie-ins, as well as start-up and commissioning, will follow plans called MOPOs (Maintenance of Plant Operations), to ensure that tie-ins and start-up goes smoothly. MOPOs are comprehensive plans developed in well advance of a specific task that focus on preparedness, safety, and proper execution when construction interfaces with an operational facility.

Because we are at a 90% completion of design, many of the treatment components and larger pieces of equipment have been identified based on performance requirements. This includes the ultraviolet treatment/advanced oxidation equipment (UV/AOP) for destruction of 1,4-dioxane, the vessels and media for treatment of PFAS, and electrical and control equipment. Because these are not typically “off-the-shelf” items and often take weeks or months to procure and manufacture, GMP 1is being issued solely to procure these long-lead items (see previous updates for discussion on GMPs). A second GMP will be issued for the balance of the project, including all other equipment, materials and the onsite construction. The construction schedule will be built to accommodate delivery and placement of these items upon arrival.

June/July 2019

During the past two months, the Marana Water team has been detailing out the conceptual designs presented in the preliminary design report we received in April/May. The team is working toward a 60% design completion, and this is where the majority of the design takes place. This process addresses every aspect of the design and operation of the water campuses.

What gets reviewed? Well, each part of the construction and design. Each requirement from the type of fill (dirt) needed, to electrical control panels and nuts and bolts used on the construction site. These items can be explicitly stated on the plans or are outlined in the technical specifications to be used on the project. Equipment manufacturers are included in these discussions to make sure equipment will meet the design requirements. Area is measured and verified to ensure delivery vehicles have appropriate room to enter and leave the site for operational needs. Structural engineering calculations and designs are done for pads that will support equipment and the walls on the site. There is a review of the impact the new sites will have on the surrounding area and confirmation that all safety requirements are met. Other aspects are verified like the hydraulic calculations, that they site layouts will allow for staff to access equipment for maintenance purposes, and the contractor provides a constructability review stating that it can be built as it is designed. The team even selects the paint colors.

Marana Water has reviewed the 60% design in late June and provided comments back to Carollo. Our contractor, Archer Western, has begun to put cost estimates together based on the 60% design. They will discuss with vendors to secure bids for equipment and labor, while Carollo incorporates the comments and continues work toward a 90% design. Both sites are scheduled to begin construction in Fall 2019 with start-up testing in late July/early August 2020. We anticipate both sites to be fully operational in September 2020.

Project Water review

April/May 2019

Construction Process

During the past two months, our engineering consultant, Carollo Engineering, completed a draft preliminary design report (PDR). This report includes proposed site layouts, preliminary equipment sizing, and treatment process selection. The Marana Water team has reviewed the PDR and the overall project is moving toward 60% completed design. Additionally, as planned, in April interviews were conducted to select the construction manager for the project. After the competitive process, Archer Western Construction was selected as the most responsive and capable firm. Archer Western is a large construction firm with offices located throughout North America, and our team will be working out of the Phoenix office. They have completed several water treatment projects in the Tucson and Phoenix areas, and have experience working with Carollo Engineering. Finally, the contract for preconstruction services, which includes constructability review, value engineering, and cost modeling, is nearing completion. Constructability reviews allow the contractor to evaluate step-by-step construction methods necessary to build a facility alongside the design engineer, providing the opportunity for reduced costs. Value engineering is a term used to improve a product’s value, or the ratio of its function to its cost. Some examples would be a substitution of materials that meet the specific requirements, but are available at a reduced cost, or the use of a different type of pump that operates at a higher efficiency, which could in turn generate operational savings over its lifetime. Archer Western has begun working with Carollo and Marana Water to keep the project on schedule. Once the cost model is complete, it will be used to create the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) process to get equipment that could take a long time to order and be delivered, ensuring these items are available for installation.

Treatment Process

Below is an example of the recommended treatment process that we will use at the water treatment campuses. You can click on the image to enlarge it. First, water is pumped from wells through a series of filtration units to remove sediment or solids that are sometimes found in groundwater. Next, the unregulated compounds treatment process begins with an ultraviolet advanced oxidation process using hydrogen peroxide (UV AOP - H2O2). This means that hydrogen peroxide goes into the water ahead of a UV light. Once this water mixed with hydrogen peroxide passes through the UV light, hydroxyl radicals are generated. These radicals react with and break down the 1,4-dioxane to create harmless molecules of carbon dioxide and hydrogen. After the UV AOP process, the water moves to vessels filled with granular activated carbon (GAC). These GAC filters will absorb the PFAs and any remaining hydrogen peroxide from the UA AOP process. Finally, the water will be disinfected using chlorine and pumped into the reservoir and then the main distribution system for our customers. These two processes together are the most common and proven technologies of treating for1,4-dioxane and PFAs.

Treatment process schematic

February/March 2019

Construction Process

The project is moving along during the February and March periods. Our engineering team, Carollo Engineering, continued with the preliminary design of the sites. While this continues, in mid-February, the Town began a two-step selection process to hire a Construction Manager who will work with the Town and Carollo to deliver the project. We are going to be using a Construction Manager at Risk method for the construction of the sites. The first step is for statements of qualifications to be submitted and reviewed by a selection committee made up of industry professionals. This was completed in early March. Upon review, we moved to the second step where the selection team will interview the highest ranking firms in mid-April.

The Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) process is a collaborative project delivery method where the Owner (Marana Water) contracts a designer and a construction manager separately and they then work as a team to complete the project. Both the engineering designer and the contractor need to be engaged with a contract. We retained Carollo Engineering in January of 2019, and are in the middle of the process to secure a contractor. Typically, the Owner will select a Construction Manager when the engineering design is at approximately 30% completion to perform pre-construction services. These services include working directly with the Owner and the designer to perform constructability reviews, cost modeling, and value engineering during the design process.

There are many advantages to using a CMAR process for complex projects like this one. First, during the pre-construction phase, the Construction Manager, along with the Owner and the designer, can collectively identify potential opportunities to accelerate the project schedule. Some examples of this are identifying items that have a long lead time, or putting portions of the projects out to bid that are early in the project timeline. Secondly, the Construction manager will also be performing careful cost modelling of the project by obtaining bids and cost estimates for the project. The Construction Manager is required to deliver the project with a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP). Typically, when the project is at the 90% design completion phase, the Construction Manager will provide this GMP, which includes predetermined Owner allowances and contingencies. This is where the “at-risk” comes into play. Each bid packages has a GMP based on the efforts and due diligence of the Construction Manager during pre-construction. The Construction Manager is financially liable, or “at-risk,” should there be any necessary costs to complete construction above and beyond the GMP. This is another advantage, by providing cost security to the Owner.

Regulation

On February 14, the EPA released their much anticipated “PFAS Action Plan.” According to the EPA, the PFAS Action Plan:

  • Demonstrates the agency’s critical national leadership by providing both short-term solutions and long-term strategies to address this important issue
  • Provides a multi-media, multi-program, national research, and risk communication plan to address this emerging environmental challenge
  • Responds to the extensive public input the agency has received over the past year during the PFAS National Leadership Summit, multiple communication engagements, and through the public docket.

Read a summary of the EPA’s Action Plan for PFAS(PDF, 268KB).

January 2019

On January 22nd, the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (AZWIFA) approved a loan to the Town of Marana for $15 million for the design and construction of two advanced water treatment facilities. Upon closure of the loan documents, the Marana Council approved the design engineering services contract for Carollo Engineering. Carollo will be working with the Town throughout the duration of the project, which includes final design, construction oversight, treatment plant start up, and post-construction activities. A design kick-off meeting took place the week of January 22nd with Marana Water staff. Carollo is a national engineering firm that specializes in water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The team working with the Town is from the local Tucson office.

AZWIFA is a governmental organization dedicated to protecting public health and promoting environmental quality through financial assistance for water and wastewater infrastructure. AZWIFA offers funding for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects designed to ensure safe, reliable drinking water and proper wastewater treatment. Over the last 25 years, AZWIFA as invested over $2 billion in Arizona communities. For more information, visit the AZWIFA website.

December 2018

On December 12th, the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (AZWIFA) approved the offer of a $15 million loan to the Town of Marana to address the issue of unregulated compounds. The final loan agreement documents with AZWIFA will be brought to the Marana Town council most likely in January 2019 for final acceptance.

Marana Water has selected and is currently negotiating a contract with a design engineering firm to begin the process of design for the two advanced water treatment plants. Each water system (Picture Rocks and Airline/Lambert) will have a treatment plant designed and constructed to significantly reduce or remove the discovered unregulated compounds (PFAs and 1,4-Dioxane).

November 2018

Town of Marana has joined City of Tucson in a lawsuit filed Nov 8 in Pima County Superior Court as part of their ongoing effort to protect the public from any potential adverse health effects that could be caused by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) that are present in portions of the groundwater supply.

November 2018 Release

October 2018

Marana Town Manager Jamsheed Mehta wrote a letter to Town Council responding to questions about interim water consumption as the Town prepares to build two operational treatment plants for the Airline/Lambert and Picture Rocks water systems.

Read the October 2018 letter.(PDF, 695KB)

Additionally, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality wrote a letter supporting Town of Marana’s efforts to address unregulated compounds in drinking water.

October 2018 Release

September 2018

Town Council approved Resolution No. 2018-091 on Tuesday, September 25 authorizing the creation of the Picture Rocks water treatment campus capital project and the Airline/Lambert water treatment campus capital projects. The resolution also authorizes the transfer of up to two million dollars in budgeted expenditure authority, and authorizes the application for a clean water state revolving fund loan from the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (WIFA) to fund the construction.

August 2018

The Town of Marana Council made a unanimous decision on Tuesday, August 14, 2018 to pursue design and construction of a water treatment facility for each of the two impacted systems in Marana Water found to contain unregulated compounds. Additional information can be found at the links below.

News

 

Additional EPA Resources

 

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