Kingston’s Silver Lake Water Authority Crisis: How Municipal Supply Issues Are Forcing Homeowners to Upgrade Private Well Systems

When Municipal Water Fails: How Kingston’s Silver Lake Crisis is Driving Homeowners to Private Well Solutions

Residents of Kingston, Massachusetts, are facing an unprecedented water quality crisis that’s forcing many homeowners to reconsider their water supply options. Pine DuBois, with the Jones River Watershed Association, spoke to Kingston selectmen at their Tuesday, Sept. 26 meeting, showing them a video of black, stinky water coming into Silver Lake from a mile and a half long culvert bringing water from Monponsett Pond. This alarming situation has created urgency among homeowners to explore alternative water solutions, particularly private well systems.

The Silver Lake Water Authority Crisis Explained

The lake is the principal water supply for the City of Brockton, whose water treatment plant is on Route 36 in Halifax. However, the water quality has been severely compromised by multiple factors. Occasionally, water is diverted into Silver Lake from Monponsett Pond in Halifax and Furnace Pond in Pembroke (through Tubbs Meadow Brook) whenever there is a water shortage. Although the lake is a reservoir, which prevents recreational activities to keep the drinking water clean, the water from the diversions are not and can pump in contaminated water. Monponsett Pond, in particular, has reoccurring toxic algae growths which get transferred into the lake.

The situation has reached critical levels, with Monponsett Pond faces significant water quality challenges. West Monponsett suffers from blooms of cyanobacteria, which endanger human health, prevent recreational use of the lake, and threaten drinking water supply. These contamination issues directly affect the municipal water supply that serves the broader Kingston area.

Impact on Municipal Water Supply

The water quality monitoring reports paint a concerning picture. Silver Lake is the primary source of water for Brockton Public Water Supply System, and the supplemental sources of Monponsett and Furnace Ponds experience similarly compromised water quality. If source waters are left unmanaged, there is potential for blooms to increase the cost of finished water treatment and the associated cost of water.

For Kingston residents, this crisis means unreliable municipal water quality and potentially higher costs. The situation has become so severe that water quality experts are recommending that “The City of Brockton to collaborate with surrounding towns and other stakeholders to address water quality in the lake and the associated waterbodies as well as immediately pursue back-up alternatives, such as a connection to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA)”.

Why Homeowners Are Turning to Private Wells

As municipal water quality continues to deteriorate, many Kingston homeowners are exploring private well systems as a reliable alternative. While the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) sets permits for public water supplier withdrawals, private wells do not have the same regulations. Private well owners are responsible for ensuring that their water is free of pollutants.

Private wells offer several advantages during municipal supply crises:

  • Independence from contaminated municipal sources: Private wells draw directly from groundwater aquifers, avoiding the contaminated surface water affecting Silver Lake
  • Direct control over water quality: Homeowners can implement their own filtration and treatment systems
  • Long-term reliability: Well-maintained private wells can provide decades of service
  • Cost stability: No exposure to rising municipal water rates due to treatment costs

Understanding Private Well Systems

MassDEP defines private wells as: “(they) provide water for human consumption and consist of a system that has less than 15 service connections and either (1) serves less than 25 individuals or (2) serves an average of 25 or more individuals daily for less than 60 days (about 2 months) of the year.” There are two main types of private wells: dug/bored wells and drilled wells, with drilled wells being preferred for their depth and protection from surface contamination.

However, private well installation requires careful consideration of local groundwater conditions. It is the only source of drinking water Plymouth, Carver and Bourne, and parts of Wareham, Middleborough, Plympton and Kingston, but it is vulnerable to contamination from various sources. Professional assessment is crucial to ensure proper well placement and adequate water supply.

The Role of Professional Plumbing Services

Installing a private well system requires expertise in both well drilling and plumbing integration. This is where experienced local contractors become invaluable. When considering a private well upgrade, homeowners need a qualified Plumber in Kingston, MA who understands both the local water challenges and the technical requirements of well system installation.

Dempsey Energy, a family-owned company serving Massachusetts for over 30 years, brings crucial local knowledge to well system installations. At Dempsey Energy, we understand that your home’s comfort depends on reliable North Attleboro HVAC, plumbing, electrical and energy systems. For over 30 years, families across Massachusetts have trusted us to keep their homes running efficiently and comfortably. Their comprehensive plumbing services include well system integration, water treatment installation, and ongoing maintenance.

Key Considerations for Well System Upgrades

Before making the switch to a private well system, Kingston homeowners should consider several factors:

  • Local regulations: MassDEP does not regulate private wells. Your local board of health or health department regulates them.
  • Water testing: To ensure that your well is in compliance with your local board of health’s regulations, it is important for you to regularly test your well. Check out the EPA Guidelines for well testing to learn more about the testing process.
  • Professional installation: As required by 310 CMR 46.00, only Massachusetts Registered Well Drillers are permitted to install wells in the Commonwealth.
  • Ongoing maintenance: Regular system maintenance ensures long-term reliability and water quality

Financial and Practical Benefits

While the initial investment in a private well system can be significant, the long-term benefits often justify the cost. With municipal water treatment costs rising due to contamination issues, private wells can provide cost stability over time. Additionally, With fast, same-day repairs, fully stocked trucks, and 24/7 emergency services, we’re here when you need us most—ensuring your home stays safe, comfortable, and stress-free.

Moving Forward

The Silver Lake water crisis represents a broader challenge facing many communities dealing with aging infrastructure and environmental contamination. For Kingston homeowners, private well systems offer a path to water independence and security. However, success depends on working with experienced professionals who understand local conditions and regulatory requirements.

As the municipal water situation continues to evolve, homeowners who invest in properly designed and installed private well systems will have taken a crucial step toward ensuring their family’s access to clean, reliable water for years to come. The key is partnering with trusted local professionals who can navigate the technical, regulatory, and practical aspects of well system installation and maintenance.