https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/05/07/Water%20Main%20Flushing%20-%20Fact%20Sheet%20-%20FAQ%20for%20Consumers.pdf
Although this is from the State of Massachusetts ,The facts, procedures techniques etc. apply universally for all water systems.
Flushing is a necessary and critical component of water operations. It assures health and safety as well as contributes to better overall operations, control, and maintenance of a distribution system.
The Village of Ilion Traditionally flushes in the Spring and fall annually , with occasional needs of more often due to various factors such as main breaks, or poor water quality.
In February of this year the Village of Ilion experienced major interruptions and issues with it's distribution system. At least three consecutive main breaks resulted in heavy water loss from the system, including holding tanks. This led to a boil water advisory, water conservation, and water emergency being declared. After the system was "Stabilized" these restrictions have since been lifted. What did not and has not occurred is a system wide flushing of the system after these catastrophic events.
Samples were taken and passed DOH health standards. What the public should take issue with and have concern, is that the events were so massive in scope, that water mains and storage tanks were practically run dry. This is and can be problematic. Air pockets could have been formed, sediment moved and deposited at dead ends at obstructed mains, and or lying on the bottoms of mains waiting to again spread through out the system on the next heavy draw, such as fire fighting or another break.
The heavy draw and loss of volume of water and chlorine residual also set up the perfect environment for contamination by organisms and bacteria. Flushing as described in the enclosed article helps to alleviate such health and safety concerns.
We must ask, why wasn't this done immediately after the system reached "Stabilization". The potential answers are troubling. Ineptness? Not knowing the importance and role of flushing procedures? Fear that the system was to vulnerable to another draw or flushing operations? Lack of direction or care/ convenience over health and safety?
Poor management decisions and stewardship of the Village's water system is what has led us to the condition that we experience today. It is not because of age, "act of God" or other, but conscious choices of Elected officials and department employees. Time to place this Vital public resource in the hands of professionals like the Mohawk Valley Water Authority and out of the hands of self serving, unknowledagble politicians who in too many cases are distracted by other issues and perceived priorities.
Safe and adequate drinking water MUST be priority one!
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