Midland Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

City of Midland Water Utilities serves over 90,000 residents in Midland, Texas, and surrounding Permian Basin communities including downtown Midland and Grassland Estates. Drinking water sources include groundwater from the Ogallala and Edwards-Trinity Plateau aquifers via the Paul Davis System in Martin County and T-Bar in Loving and Winkler Counties, supplemented by surface water from Colorado River Municipal Water District (CRMWD) reservoirs: lakes J.B. Thomas, O.H. Ivie, and E.V. Spence. Treatment reports are available through the city's website at midlandtexas.gov/167/Reports-and-Notices and via TCEQ Drinking Water Watch (system ID 1650001).

The Permian Basin watershed features deep limestone and gypsum formations from the Permian period, channeling mineral-rich water from the Ogallala Aquifer and Edwards-Trinity Plateau. These geological structures dissolve substantial calcium, magnesium, and sulfate minerals into the supply during extraction from deep wells, resulting in a very hard supply character typical of this arid region. Industrial oil and gas operations and agricultural runoff further influence water chemistry throughout the basin.

Very hard water in Midland places extreme strain on household plumbing and fixtures, causing scale buildup that rapidly reduces the efficiency and lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, coffee makers, and pipes. Regular descaling, vinegar rinses, and professional inspections are essential; a whole-home water softener is strongly recommended. Water quality reports indicate 9 dangerous contaminants detected alongside the very hard profile; high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) stem from Permian geology, and nitrates pose risks to infants during rainfall or farm activity. The city complies with TCEQ monitoring, with treatment including filtration and disinfection.