Well plants are still pumping above average, indicating water leaks in the area. These leaks are likely due to unseen property connections that may be broken underwater near piers by the creek and canals. These breaks have the potential to cause contamination of the water system through back siphoning.
To ensure the safest disinfection, we are heavily flushing water mains at dead ends and testing for free chlorinated residuals. Depending on our pumpage readings and the weather today and this weekend, we are ready to pull grab samples at all our monitoring stations and deliver them to the TCEQ-approved public water lab for analysis. To pull grab samples properly, the weather must cooperate, as rain or gusty wind can contaminate sample bottles and result in a false analysis. If the bacteriological analysis passes negative, we can officially lift the Boil Water Notice.
Crews are currently reading meters this week along with flushing water mains. If we see water meters registering an instant flow (rapidly spinning), we will turn off the meter valves at the meter box and attempt to notify the property owners.
Sewer Collection Update
Unfortunately, the heavy rains have rapidly flooded the vacuum sewer mains, disrupting sewer service for many properties. The abundance of properties that have not repaired damaged sewer lines caused by the hurricane is smothering all upstream connections. We are in the process of draining each street vacuum line to restore service. The heavy rain and forecasted more rain are extremely slowing us down, affecting our entire District and making it very difficult to determine which connections have service.
Please call Caney Creek MUD at 979-245-0245 if your sewer is backing up to help us monitor the draining progress and potentially provide quicker or temporary relief while draining.
Wastewater Plant Status
The wastewater plant is working satisfactorily. However, groundwater (storm water) intrusions are currently damaging the treatment of water quality, causing an abundance of dead organics. This results in a tougher breakdown of sewer strength to treat. The discharge breakdown of pathogens is currently working well, with total chlorination tested at permitted compliance levels.