Reduced Capacity in Bywater Bay System, Water Conservation Requested
The PUD’s Bywater Bay water system is currently experiencing capacity issues that may impact the availability of water to homes or properties in this area over the next few months. The PUD is asking Bywater Bay customers to immediately reduce water consumption through conservation to assure adequate supply for all customers.
The Bywater Bay system is located near the Hood Canal Bridge and extends west on both sides of Hwy 104 towards South Point Road, and north up Paradise Bay Rd until Andy Cooper Rd. The system’s three wells serve 248 active connections.
According to Engineering Director Samantha Harper, the PUD was forced to shut down one of those wells, known as the Reynolds well, after detection of high chlorides, an indication that seawater intrusion may have occurred. At the same time, Harper explained, the system’s Shine 1 well has been operating at reduced capacity as it awaits scheduled repairs.
Though Harper believes the Shine 1 well and the system’s third Alpine Court well have the ability to supply water to all existing customers, she stated that if customers do not begin instituting conservation measures, they risk depleting above ground storage reservoirs and interrupting service.
To avoid depleting reservoir supply and preventing undue stress on the Bywater System and existing pumps, the PUD is asking all Bywater Bay water system customers to undertake the following conservation practices immediately:
- Significantly Limit Outdoor Watering
Summer outdoor watering often doubles or triples the amount of water used in water systems. Focusing on limiting outdoor watering to essential activities only will help ensure supply.
- Utilize a Watering Schedule
Limiting watering to every other day with even numbered addresses watering only on even numbered calendar dates and odd numbered residences watering on odd numbered calendar dates can reduce water usage greatly while keeping lawns and plantings healthy.
- Refrain from Washing Boats or Cars
Washing vehicles or recreational equipment uses a significant amount of water. Use a car wash or commercial washing facility during this time of limited water supply
Harper explained that at this stage conservation is voluntary. Were capacity to further decline, or usage to exceed capacity, mandatory measures would be put in place. “Conserving water resources is in the collective interest of all Bywater customers,” said Harper. “The more who actively participate, the more will benefit.” She said the PUD offers additional tips and techniques on conserving water on their website at: jeffpud.org/water-wisely.
The PUD is asking that all Bywater Bay system customers reduce excess water usage and practice conservation techniques until the Shine 1 well is restored to full capacity. Harper expect repairs to occur in October or November. Harper and her team have reached out to residents in the system and assures they will continue to keep affected households informed of any new developments in supply and capacity over the coming months.
For more information regarding the PUD’s Bywater Bay water system or any other water related questions, contact Water Resource Manager, Bill Graham at (360) 302 -1877 or bgraham@jeffpud.org.
