Crescenta Valley Water District (CVWD) serves about 33,000 people in an area of approximately four-square miles. Distribution mains (pipes) are used to convey water to homes, businesses and fire hydrants in local neighborhoods.

The District has just under 100 miles of pipe. The water entering distribution mains is of very high quality; however, water quality can deteriorate over time in areas of the distribution mains. Water main flushing is the process of cleaning the interior of water distribution mains by sending a rapid flow of water through the mains that replaces stagnant water.

Flushing maintains water quality in several ways. For example, flushing removes sediments like iron. Although iron does not pose health concerns, it can affect the taste, clarity and color of the water. Additionally, sediments can shield microorganisms from the disinfecting power of chlorine, contributing to the growth of microorganisms within distribution mains.

Flushing helps remove stale water and ensures the presence of fresh water with sufficient oxygen, disinfectant levels and superior levels of taste and smell.

CVWD has retained the services of ValveTek Utility Services to flush specific portions of its distributions lines. ValveTek Utility Services provides a patented alternative method which, unlike conventional flushing practices, discharges no water into the street during operation and improves water quality by filtering the water and placing it back into the distribution system.

During flushing operations in your neighborhood, some short-term deterioration of physical water quality parameters, such as taste and color, though uncommon are possible. The most common problem following water main flushing is a discoloration in the water. Should this occur following flushing operations in your area, run the tap furthest from the front of the house, such as the bathtub, on cold until the water clears. Normal main line flushing operations takes between 30 minutes to one-hour per street, but some areas may take a bit longer.

ValveTek will be working throughout CVWD’s service area from mid-February through the end of April. A location schedule will be available online at www.cvwd.com prior to the start of the project.

Please contact Christina Olmedo at (818) 236-4115 with questions or if you would like more information on the CVWD water main flushing schedule.