The City of Morenci will perform routine hydrant flushing from Monday, April 20, through Thursday, April 30, with work taking place between the hours of 6:30 AM and 5:00 PM The Morenci Department of Public Works (DPW) will carry out the maintenance according to the following schedule:
April 20-21: West of Bean Creek
April 22-23: North of Main Street
April 27: North of Main Street (finish)
April 28-30: South of Main Street
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of hydrant flushing?
A: The DPW flushes hydrants to perform general maintenance on the distribution system. Flushing a hydrant helps to provide valuable information on the general wellbeing of the hydrant, and ensures water flow is available to fight fires, for residents, and for businesses. Flushing also helps clear iron and mineral deposits from the distribution lines.
Q: My water looks like a rusty / tea color. Is the water safe?
A: Hydrant flushing can cause water to temporarily appear rusty since iron and mineral deposits get stirred up. Water is still safe to drink during hydrant flushing. It could cause laundry stains, though, which is why the City of Morenci is performing this exercise during the night. Iron is, usually, the main source of the discoloration. The City of Morenci obtains its water from two wells located at the Water Treatment Plant. These wells have anywhere between .70 to .80 parts per million (ppm) of iron when water is pumped out of them. Much of that iron is sequestered through iron removal filter with a total distribution level around .10 to .20 ppm of iron.
Q: Is my water being tested?
A: The City of Morenci’s water supply is supervised by at least three staff members on a daily basis. Daily tests include chlorine residuals of water at the Water Treatment Plant and in the distribution system. Other tests include levels of iron in raw and finished water, monthly bacteriological tests, and bi-weekly water quality parameters (includes pH, alkalinity, conductivity, chloride, calcium, and sulfate). Lead and copper sampling is done annually, as well.
Tips to Minimize Water Discoloration
Run water prior to doing laundry
Limit water use during the times of hydrant flushing
Remember rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. Keep clothes wet and treat with stain remover if this happens.
For more information, please contact the City of Morenci at (517) 458-6828.
For questions, please contact City Hall at (517) 458-6828.