Compounds of Emerging Concern

Working Collaboratively to Monitor Untreated Drinking Water  

The Northern Colorado Compounds of Emerging Concern Program (CEC Program) is a collaborative effort initiated in 2009 to take a cost-effective and proactive approach to monitor the presence and concentration of pharmaceuticals, personal care products, hormones and pesticides in the C-BT and Windy Gap projects and other source waters of interest associated with drinking water supplies in Northern Colorado. 

Northern Water partners with the cities of Fort Collins, Boulder, Longmont, Loveland, Broomfield, Greeley and the Town of Estes Park, to share the annual program costs of approximately $100,000.

The objectives of this program are to:

• Maintain a baseline of data that monitors current conditions, trends, and changes in water quality; 
• Assess impacts from adverse events such as floods and wildfires;
• Collect data to support the assessment of regulatory issues;
• Develop source water protection measures to maintain a high-quality water supply; and
• Maintain a robust and evolving list of compounds.

The program monitors contaminants from a variety of sources including wastewater, runoff from lawns and agriculture, and recreation. Monitoring is conducted biennially at more than 20 sampling locations. In years when monitoring is not conducted, funds are used to support special studies and program development.

A dashboard summary of data collected by the CEC collaborative can be found below.

Steps You Can Take

Minimize Herbicide and Pesticide Use

Properly Dispose of Pet Waste

Don't Flush Unused Medications

Properly Dispose of Hazardous Waste

Opt for More Natural Personal Care Product Ingredients

Don't Pour Chemicals Down the Drain