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Cross-Connection/Backflow Prevention

***Please feel free to contact our operations manager, Ben Behrle, regarding any questions that you may have. If you would like to have Ben visit your property to help assess what you have, or what you may need, please call (509) 670-4088 or email ben.bmwd@yahoo.com.

The Bear Mountain Water District has, and is continuing to, implement our Cross Connection Control Program as required by the Department of Health WAC 246-290-490. The district is required to store information on file regarding backflow assemblies, test reports and locations of the assemblies.  A backflow prevention device is required and protects the domestic water distribution system from a potential backflow incident.

The following are common examples of cross connections that may exist at your home:

  • You irrigate with your domestic water
  • You also have Federal Irrigation,  a well or your pump from the lake AND you have Domestic Drinking Water
  • You have a Swimming pool or hot tub
  • You have a frost free hydrant on the domestic water
  • You have exterior hose bibs/spigots
  • You have a water feature or pond
  • You hook an RV up to a hose
  • You have a Boat lift
  • You have a Boiler
  • You have a private sewer pump
  • You use the domestic water to fill a livestock water trough
  • You have a Fire Sprinkler System

Pursuant to the Washington State Department of Health Requirements to protect the public health and safety, Bear Mountain Water District (BMWD) shall require all customers receiving potable water from the BMWD’s water distribution system to comply with all state and local regulations requiring approved backflow assembly devices.  In accordance with these regulations to protect the BMWD’s water system and public health and safety, these approved devices shall be installed, maintained and tested annually by an approved and licensed Backflow Assembly Tester at the customer’s expense and liability.

The annual test report shall be submitted to BMWD’s Cross Connection Control Specialist no later than May 31st on an annual basis.

Please read the following helpful brochures and documents from the American Water Works Association, Bear Mountain Water District, and others:

Cross-Connection Control PolicyBackflow Assembly Testers ListBackflow Test Report FormFrequently Asked QuestionsHealth Hazards BrochureHousehold Hazards BrochureLawn Irrigation BrochureThermal Expansion BrochureIrrigation ChecklistInstalling Double Check Backflow AssemblyInstalling Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly