MASSACHUSETTS DROUGHT ALERT

Drought and Water Main Flushing
Flushing during a drought, while seemingly counterintuitive, is essential for maintaining water quality, system reliability, and safety:

Prevents Stagnation: Dead-end lines can lead to water stagnation, resulting in poor taste and odor. Flushing keeps the water fresh and improves overall quality.

Reduces Biofilm Growth: Biofilm—a thin layer of microorganisms—can form inside distribution pipes. Flushing helps to reduce biofilm, improving water quality and reducing potential health risks.

Removes Sediment Buildup: Sediments can accumulate over time in dead-end lines, causing discoloration and affecting water clarity. Flushing helps remove these deposits, maintaining cleaner water.

Maintains Disinfectant Levels: Chlorine levels can diminish in stagnant areas, reducing water safety. Flushing ensures that disinfectant residuals are adequate, keeping the water safe for consumption.

Ensures System Reliability: Flushing dead-end lines also helps monitor water pressure and flow, ensuring the system is operational for firefighting and other emergencies.

The District is closely monitoring drought conditions and will adjust the flushing program as necessary.