As Nebraskans begin spending time outdoors or going on vacation, the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy ensures seasonal water systems are up and running properly so everyone has access to clean drinking water.

Nebraska has 90 seasonal systems that include places like golf courses, state recreational areas and RV parks. A seasonal system is defined as a non-community water system that is closed to the public for 90 consecutive days per year. It needs to start up at the beginning of its operating season and shut down properly at the end of the season.

Seasonal systems choose when to open each year depending on the weather and estimated guests. Before they begin serving water to the public, systems must complete a certified start up procedure. This includes flushing the wells and distribution system to ensure any stagnant water is removed from the pipes. The system must also take a bacteria sample prior to opening, and disinfection of the system is recommended.

Each seasonal system must return a certification of start-up procedure within 30 days of opening to the NDEE. This certificate confirms they’ve completed the proper process and reports their opening and closing dates for the year.

While the system is active, monthly coliform sampling is required. NDEE’s Drinking Water Division ensures that protocols are followed and that the system collects coliform samples during all the months they are open. The Division tracks the bacteria samples to confirm the safety of the drinking water.

In addition to ensuring seasonal systems have all their required records, the Drinking Water Division also inspects seasonal systems every five years to ensure they meet regulations, which prevents contamination from entering the water source.

When the season ends, the operator must winterize the system to ensure it is not damaged during the cold winter months. This includes draining the distribution system and turning the well off.

By following these procedures, NDEE and the seasonal water systems can ensure Nebraskans and visitors to our state have safe drinking water while they recreate.