Water remains safe, sufficient with two wells under repair; irrigation restrictions in effect
EBS STAFF
After the City of Belgrade declared a water system emergency due to operational issues impacting two municipal wells, city officials are assuring the community that its drinking water remains safe and meets state and federal quality standards.
By declaring the emergency, the two wells were put out of service to allow staff to expedite repairs, testing and engineering work, according to a press release from the City of Belgrade.
“We want residents to know that their drinking water remains safe and that city staff are actively managing the situation every day,” Neil Cardwell, Belgrade city manager, stated in the release. “While these issues present operational challenges, we have plans in place to maintain reliable service, restore capacity and evaluate long-term solutions.”
One well, located at Lewis and Clark Park, suffered damage from sand and debris inside the well. Repair plans include pump replacement, and the installation of additional filtration equipment.
The other well, south of I-90 near Yukon Lane, went offline due to insufficient groundwater levels. The city is working with engineers and specialists to better understand groundwater conditions and evaluate long-term reliability, according to the release.
The emergency declaration also authorizes up to $500,000 to repair and restore the first well, and up to $100,000 for research and exploration regarding the second well. Money will come from the city’s reserve fund, and neither is expected to impact user rates or fees, according to the city.
Belgrade is under water-use restrictions which will help prevent overburdening the impaired system, and the release stated that as long as restrictions are followed, the water system can meet community demand.
Irrigation watering is prohibited between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. when the system faces its highest demand, preserving water for homes, businesses and emergency services, according to the release. “Residents are encouraged to continue following current watering restrictions and practice responsible water use,” the release stated. “Belgrade remains committed to providing safe, reliable drinking water to the community.”
