At Clarkson Covered Bridge, drinking water comes from Lake Catoma and moves from its source through treatment to the faucet. Coagulation removes dirt and particles suspended in the water. Sedimentation lets heavier particles settle to the bottom, and clear water then moves to filtration. During filtration, water passes through filters of sand, gravel, and charcoal to remove small particles. Disinfection adds chlorine to kill bacteria. The water is then kept in a storage tank until it flows through pipes to homes and business.