Mapleton Issues Boil Order After Bacteria Detected In Spring

MAPLETON, Utah — City officials have issued a boil order and drinking water warning for Mapleton residents after E. coli and total coliform were detected in spring sources that feed part of the city’s water supply.

Officials said they were alerted on Thursday about the samples, which were taken on Wednesday.

“After we were notified, our operator immediately stopped using our springs for drinking water until we can resolve the problem,” the city said in its warning that was sent to residents. “Mapleton City uses both well water and spring water. Right now, our spring water flow is very low and only makes up approximately 5% of our drinking water.”

Officials said water from spring sources is chlorinated before it enters the distribution system, and samples from June 9 were negative for the bacteria.

The most recent samples were taken at the sources, before water is chlorinated.

Residents should boil water or use bottled water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice.

Crews said they are increasing sampling for coliform bacteria to confirm there is no contamination in the drinking water and will complete an assessment of the city’s system.

“We will inform you when tests show no bacteria and you no longer need to boil your water,” officials said. “Test results can take 1-2 days for results and sometimes longer on the weekends.”