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CPU Investigating Reports of Discolored Water

Routine testing confirms water remains safe for customers to drink

Clarksdale Public Utilities is taking action to address reports of brown water in portions of its service area while assuring customers that CPU’s water is safe and poses no health hazard to the community.

“We understand why customers are concerned when they turn on their faucet and see discolored water,” said CPU General Manager Curtis D. Boschert. “We do not like seeing it either. Our customers expect clear, high-quality water when they turn on the tap, and that is the standard we expect from ourselves.”

CPU has begun a comprehensive investigation to determine the source of the discoloration and take appropriate measures to restore the water to its normal, clear appearance.

Discoloration is usually caused by a buildup of iron in the distribution system. Iron is naturally present in water pumped from the aquifer and is an essential mineral for human growth and development. After being pumped from wells, CPU’s drinking water is treated with chlorine in accordance with Mississippi Department of Health guidelines to ensure it is safe to consume.

For years, CPU has routinely flushed the distribution system at fire hydrants across the city to reduce iron buildup and sediment. Recently, CPU increased its monthly flushing schedule to twice a month and is also flushing specific areas when customers report issues with water discoloration.

In addition to increased flushing, CPU is using an iron-reduction treatment process in multiple wells that sequesters iron molecules in water, prevents oxidation and reduces discoloration.

“Water quality and reliability are fundamental to our responsibility to this community,” Boschert said. “We take that responsibility seriously, and our team is focused on understanding what is causing this discoloration and correcting it.”

Customers who experience discolored water are encouraged to first run cold water at a high flow rate for several minutes from a faucet, preferably one located closest to where the water service enters the home. This can help clear water that has been affected by sediment or discoloration within the service line or household plumbing.

Customers should avoid using hot water until the cold water runs clear, particularly before doing laundry.

If the water does not clear after several minutes, customers should contact CPU to report the issue. Customers also are encouraged to report the location, time and duration of any discoloration they observe. This information can assist CPU crews as they work to identify patterns and determine the source of the issue.

The age and type of customer-owned plumbing can also contribute to water discoloration. If cold water runs clear while hot water is discolored, the water heater may be the source of the discoloration. CPU does not have control over plumbing on the customer’s side of the water meter.

“We appreciate customers’ patience while our team works through this investigation,” Boschert said. “We know that clear water should be something our customers can take for granted. That is what we want for them, and that is what we are working to restore.”

CPU will continue its investigation and provide additional information as it becomes available.

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.