Experiencing Water Quality Issues?

A note from GM Verna Arnette, P.E.

Some areas of our distribution system have seen discolored water at their taps. While there are various causes for discolored water (e.g., air bubbles can cause a white cloudy appearance), it can also be caused by minerals that settle in the pipes over time and become disturbed by water flow changes. This can result in water with a tea-like (or darker) appearance. Please know that BJWSA is aware and taking steps to address the issue. I invite you to read over the information below to learn more.

Why do these issues occur?

Any activity which causes an abrupt change in water flow, such as: 

  • Construction related activities 
  • Fire hydrant flow testing
  • Planned or unplanned outages 
  • Maintenance shutdowns 

 Discoloration can also be caused by at-home issues including:

  • Galvanized plumbing 
  • Older water heaters  
  • Plumbing that has been unused for an extended period
  • Irrigation resulting in high water demands

How is BJWSA working to remedy these issues in the distribution system?

Short-term solutions

  • Further reducing already-low levels of manganese in water leaving our  plants to decrease future sediment buildup.
  • Minimizing the number of potential disturbance events and encouraging participation in our Irrigation Management Plan to help prevent pressure, velocity and directional changes.
  • Tracking locations of discolored water which helps pinpoint problematic mains.
  • Undertaking strategic, directional water main flushing to help scour and eliminate accumulated minerals in problem areas.

Long-term solutions

  • Doubling treatment capacity of the Purrysburg water plant by mid-2025, which will help mitigate water pressure, turbulence and flow direction changes by providing a more consistent supply of treated water during periods of high demand.
  • Construction of new water mains and storage improvements, including construction of a new water tower along Buckwalter Parkway to address increasing demands.
  • Considering alternatives which may include more advanced pipe-scouring techniques.