Salem Drinking Water-Great for Business and People

Photo is courtesy of North Santiam Watershed Council.

Best of the West

Salem's drinking water was voted "Best of the West" at the Pacific Northwest Section of the American Water Works Association 2006 Annual Conference. The water samples were judged on taste, odor, appearance, and aftertaste.

Future Water Availability

As populations grow and usable water supplies dwindle, supplying water will be a major challenge for most of the nation’s providers. Salem is prepared for this challenge and is in an enviable position. Our senior water rights on the North Santiam River will provide for our needs for the next 50 years and beyond. Improvements to the water supply and delivery systems are ahead of the curve. Currently, the City is in year 10 of a 15-year plan to double the capacity of Salem’s drinking water system. In addition to abundant clean water, Salem’s capacity to treat wastewater is currently being increased from 105 million gallons per day to 205 million gallons per day.

What is the Cost of Salem's Water?

Salem’s water and wastewater rates are average in comparison to similarly sized utilities in the Northwest. Our base is increasing every year with a more stable mix of customers. By investing in City infrastructure early, the City foresees rate increases within 1-2 percent above inflation by 2010. By 2015, Salem will be moving away from big revenue bonds to cash and short-term debt for our construction needs.

For more detailed information about Salem’s water quality, ongoing programs, and current water and wastewater projects, please contact Mike Gotterba, 503-588-6211, or mgotterba@cityofsalem.net.

Annual Water Quality Report

For more detailed information about Salem's water quality, ongoing programs, and current projects, please see our Annual Water Quality Report.