1/19/26:  2:30pm

Semocor, the District’s operations company, has identified the source of recent water discoloration as being related to the newly renovated water filters. While unexpected, the issue is occurring because the new filters are performing more efficiently and are capturing nearly three times more sediment from the wells than before the renovation.

This additional sediment is removed from the filters during routine backwashing and sent to a holding tank, where it normally settles out before the clarified (decanted) water is returned to the treatment process. Due to the increased amount of sediment now being captured, this process has become short-cycled, meaning some sediment is being returned to the filters before it has fully settled. As a result, a small amount of sediment has been able to pass into the distribution system.

Although the amount of sediment is minimal, it can be noticeable in areas of the distribution system with higher water flow. To address this, the District has already implemented operational changes to the filter system and will continue to make additional improvements to enhance the overall filtering capacity and performance of the system.

The discoloration observed is associated with naturally occurring iron in the source water. Iron is considered a secondary contaminant by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), meaning it affects the appearance, taste, or staining potential of water but does not pose a health risk at the levels typically found in drinking water. The water delivered to our customers remains safe, fully disinfected, and compliant with all drinking water standards.

For customers who may notice discoloration, flushing household plumbing through an exterior hose bib, when weather permits, can help clear the lines more quickly.

We appreciate your patience as we continue to optimize the system and thank you for your understanding.

 

1/17/26:

We’ve received a few comments and concerns from our district about yellow discoloration in their water. We’ve tested the water from a number of these locations and found it safe to drink.

We’ve flushed the main water lines at the locations where the initial discoloration was noticed. The purpose of flushing these lines is to remove any possible sediment. Please be aware that this can cause temporary increased discoloration as sediment is disturbed. Also, note that we routinely flush our main lines during the summer to remove sediment that may have accumulated during the winter months. If you notice discoloration due to sediment, it’s recommended to flush your home lines using your outside house bib if the weather permits.

The reported discoloration is mostly localized to a few areas in the neighborhood, so we’re focusing on those areas. Additionally, we’re checking our water filters at the water treatment plant located at Spring Valley Dr. These filters were refurbished last year and are functioning well. We just want to ensure that this isn’t the cause of the discoloration.

We’re actively working on this issue and will keep you updated on our website at https://www.academywsdco.gov/news-notices.

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Academy Water & Sanitation is having water meters replaced within our neighborhood. Normally it will be Baxter's Plumbing or Semocor, Inc. calling.  Many are failing, but more importantly we are replacing the old meters with meters that can be read with a transceiver. Once this is fully rolled out, then we could have a system installed that will monitor usage and detect leaks. This will benefit the neighborhood. A simple toilet bowl leak can run tens of thousands of gallons in a month. It’s good to be cautious about cold calls from a plumber. When in doubt, please reach out to any of us on the board or visit our website