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Baltimore County Urges Continued Water Conservation as City Prepares to Use Supplemental Water Source
The Baltimore County Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPWT) is urging residents and businesses to continue conserving water as the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) prepares to supplement the regional water supply with water drawn from the Susquehanna River.
The change is currently expected to begin in early October, depending on rainfall, reservoir levels and operating conditions. The blended water is expected to primarily serve areas supplied by the Montebello water treatment plants, including parts of eastern Baltimore City and Baltimore County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, more than 60 percent of Maryland is experiencing abnormally dry conditions and nearly 27 percent is experiencing moderate drought.
“Our residents deserve to know what to expect before any change occurs,” said Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier. “Baltimore County is working to make sure families and businesses have clear, accurate information and can feel confident that their drinking water will remain safe. We are also asking everyone to continue doing their part to conserve water while these drought conditions continue.”
The blended water will be treated and tested at the Montebello water treatment plants before reaching Baltimore County customers. While the water will continue to meet all federal and state drinking water requirements, some customers may notice a slight change in taste, odor or color due to naturally higher sediment and organic material in river water compared to reservoir sources. The water will remain safe for drinking, bathing and cooking as normal.
Baltimore City DPW will monitor water quality closely as the secondary source is introduced. The duration of supplemental pumping will depend on rainfall, reservoir recovery and overall water supply conditions.
Using Susquehanna River water as a supplemental source will help preserve the region’s stored reservoir supply while drought conditions continue. Despite voluntary water restrictions issued by Baltimore City in May, reservoir levels have continued to fall.
Baltimore County DPWT is urging residents and businesses to take simple steps to support water conservation efforts, including:
- Fix leaking faucets, hoses, and sprinklers
- Run only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines
- Turn off taps while brushing teeth or shaving, and reduce shower time
- Postpone lawn and garden watering
- Avoid washing sidewalks, driveways, and other outdoor surfaces
- Limit car, boat, or equipment washing; if needed, use a commercial car wash that recycles water
