EPA v. Town of Alpine Public Water System

Case summary

On June 27, 2025, EPA issued an administrative order (Order) to the Town of Alpine, Wyoming under section 1431 of the SDWA based on a determination of potential imminent and substantial endangerment due to pressure loss. On June 27, 2025, the EPA was notified that the System lost pressure due to a water main break that occurred the night of June 26, 2025. The loss of pressure reportedly affected the lower zone of the distribution system, which is served by storage tanks ST03 and ST04. The loss of pressure has reportedly not affected the water in storage tank ST02, which serves approximately 50-75 people in the upper zone of the distribution system. Loss of pressure in a drinking water distribution system may cause a net movement of water from outside the pipe (i.e., backsiphonage) to the inside through cracks, breaks, or joints in the distribution system that are common in all water systems. Backsiphonage creates a high potential for fecal contamination or other disease-causing organisms to enter a distribution system. The Order will require the System to distribute a boil water advisory to the portion of the population served by the System that is affected by the potential contamination; make any needed system improvements to address the cause of the pressure loss; shock chlorinate and flush the portion of the System affected by the potential contamination; and collect special samples after the disinfectant returns to the normal range to ensure the water is safe to drink prior to lifting the boil water advisory.

Defendants (1)

• Town of AlpineNamed in complaintNamed in settlement

Facilities (1)

• ALPINE, TOWN OF

  ALPINE, WY

  Registry ID: 110013032529

Statutes cited

• SDWA 1431-PWS — Emergency Powers/PWS

Enforcement conclusions (1)

• Town of Alpine Public Water Systementered 2025-06-27

  Primary law: SDWA

Timeline (3 milestones)

• 2025-06-27Final Order Issued
• 2025-07-03Enforcement Action Closed
• 2025-07-07Enforcement Action Data Entered