Boil water advisory issued for those along the San Juan River with water wells

Posted

Update, 7 p.m. Oct. 12: Information clarifying the advisory does not apply to Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District (PAWSD) customers was added.

Due to the recent flooding in the area, a wastewater overflow into the San Juan River and a water main break have occurred, water systems and wells may be affected.

As a precautionary measure, the Archuleta County Public Health Department is issuing a boil water advisory effective immediately for all residents with water wells and/or septic systems along the San Juan River.

Affected area:
All properties along the San Juan River that have water wells and/or septic systems that may be impacted by flooding.

Attention PAWSD customers: According to PAWSD, "PAWSD does NOT have a boil  advisory in place. There is no need to boil water if you are a PAWSD  customer unless that is a personal preference. One water main break  occurred during the flood event in the Town of Pagosa Springs on  October 11, 2025; however, the PAWSD crews were able to isolate the  break and the system maintained pressure the entire time. PAWSD  drinking water meets or exceeds all standards set by Colorado  Department of Public Health and Environment."

What you need to do:
Until further notice, all water used for the following must be boiled for at least one full minute:

  • Drinking
  • Cooking
  • Brushing teeth
  • Washing fruits and vegetables
  • Making ice or baby formula

Boiling instructions:

  • Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one full minute.
  • Allow water to cool before use.
  • Alternatively, you may use bottled water for consumption.

Why this advisory is issued:

Heavy rains and flooding often introduce contaminates as well as sources of untreated wastewater that have overflowed into the San Juan River and can impact your wells and septic systems. This advisory is a preventative safety measure until further assessment can be made.

Duration:
This advisory will remain in effect until further assessment are made.  Updates will be provided via local media and social media pages.

Contact for more information:
Archuleta County Public Health DepartmentPhone: (970) 264-2409
Website: https://publichealth.archuletacounty.gov/

We understand this is an inconvenience and appreciate your cooperation in keeping our community safe.