Ridgeland’s decision to reinstate fluoride in its public water supply will affect Reservoir-area households connected to the city’s system, including customers in the Lake Harbour Drive and Old Canton Road area near the Reservoir’s southwestern side. The city board narrowly approved the measure after several years without added fluoride. The city had previously discontinued the additive during a period of supply shortages.
The map of Ridgeland’s Water Master Plan shows water lines serving residential streets on both sides of Lake Harbour Drive, including areas east of Old Canton Road toward the Reservoir. That map provides a general reference for the affected area. Residents should check their water bill or contact their provider to confirm whether their home receives Ridgeland water.
Board members discussed safety concerns and the source of the fluoride product before the vote. Some raised questions about reintroducing a chemical to the water supply without more specific testing or certification. Others noted the established use of water fluoridation as a public health measure, referencing guidance from organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The new budget for the project will pay for the chemical, necessary equipment updates, and removal of leftover materials from the earlier system.
For Reservoir neighborhoods that use Ridgeland water, the return of fluoride could influence dental health, particularly for families with children. National health agencies endorse community water fluoridation to help prevent cavities, though the practice remains a topic of debate in some areas. Some people prefer to rely on toothpaste for cavity prevention, while others appreciate the extra protection that fluoridated water can provide. The city has not announced a start date for the reinstated system, but local utilities are getting ready for the change.
This update will not reach every household around the Reservoir, since water service boundaries differ throughout the area. If you are unsure whether your address falls within the Ridgeland system, contact your utility provider for clarification. Residents interested in learning more about fluoride or water quality can find additional information from the CDC or reach out to city officials with specific questions.
