Water Department Updates - OCT 31, 2024 - County Briefing
October 30, 2024 at 8:00 PM
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Event Recap
Water Department Provides Optimistic Update on North Fork Treatment
On October 31, 2024, the County Briefing heard an update from the Water Department regarding ongoing efforts to improve water clarity at North Fork. The briefing focused on a treatment application process utilizing aluminum sulfate and caustic soda, which began Tuesday, October 29th, and is nearing completion. The treatment involves applying the solution to different zones at North Fork, with the final zone and an area enclosed by a curtain scheduled for treatment today. This initiative aims to reduce turbidity, or cloudiness, in the water – a key indicator of clarity.
The presentation highlighted encouraging early results. Turbidity levels have already decreased from 21.9 on Tuesday to 21.2 as of Wednesday, and officials expressed “very, very hopeful” expectations that the treatment will accelerate this decline. Contributing to these positive initial signs was favorable weather conditions yesterday – calm winds and overcast skies, which the Water Department deemed “perfect” for the application process. A lighthearted moment occurred when a mother bear and her cub were observed watching the treatment, seemingly approving of the activity. While no formal decisions or votes were taken during the briefing, the focus was firmly on outlining progress and next steps.
The Water Department will closely monitor the treatment’s effectiveness over the weekend, allowing the aluminum sulfate and caustic soda to “dig in” and coagulate clay particles. A reevaluation is scheduled for next Monday, when the department will provide an updated briefing on the treatment’s performance. Officials noted that even under overcast conditions, improved visual clarity was already apparent, with reflections of mountains and water visible – a promising sign for residents.
Importantly, the presentation and associated images documenting the treatment process will be posted on the County website later today, ensuring transparency and providing media and the public with access to this information. Residents can expect further updates next Monday following weekend monitoring, demonstrating the County’s commitment to providing clear and accessible information regarding water quality improvements at North Fork.