Update About Water System Improvements and System Flushing Oldham County Water District is currently implementing important improvements to our water treatment process and distribution system as part of our ongoing commitment to providing safe, high-quality drinking water to our community. This transition began in April and will continue over the next several months. As part of this work, customers may notice an increased amount of system flushing throughout the county. We understand many residents have questions about why this is happening, and we want to explain what you can expect during this process.
Why These Changes Are Being Made Oldham County Water is implementing a new Corrosion Control Program (CCP), approved by the Kentucky Division of Water and developed in collaboration with experienced water quality experts and chemists. Like all infrastructure, water systems age over time. Portions of our distribution system date back to the 60’s, and as our community continues to grow, treatment processes must evolve to maintain and improve water quality. These upgrades are designed to strengthen long-term system reliability and improve overall water clarity and performance for our customers.
Why System Flushing Is Necessary The extensive flushing currently taking place is not incidental — it is a critical part of stabilizing the distribution system as the new treatment chemistry takes effect. Over time, natural minerals such as iron and/or manganese can build up inside water pipes. Flushing helps remove and clean these minerals/deposits out and allows the new treatment program to work properly throughout the entire water system. Without thorough flushing, the long-term benefits of these improvements cannot be fully realized. Simply put: the work happening today is what makes significantly improved water quality possible tomorrow.
What Improvements Are Being Made? The enhanced corrosion control program includes a phosphate-based corrosion inhibitor to help reduce corrosion inside pipes. This treatment forms a protective coating within the distribution system and helps keep naturally occurring minerals dissolved, reducing discoloration and improving overall water clarity. This treatment approach is approved by the Kentucky Division of Water and is commonly used by water systems to maintain regulatory compliance and improve water quality.
Is My Water Safe? Yes. Your drinking water remains completely safe and continues to meet all state and federal drinking water standards during this transition. Water quality monitoring is continuous and rigorous. At the treatment plant, water is tested against numerous parameters every day. Daily samples are also collected throughout all four quadrants of the distribution system. In addition, multiple locations — including our interconnections with the City of LaGrange — are independently sampled and tested by certified third-party laboratories. Oversight of your drinking water is constant, transparent, and comprehensive.
About Temporary Water Discoloration Because of the amount of flushing taking place, some customers may occasionally experience temporary discoloration, such as yellow or reddish water. While this discoloration does not pose a health risk, we fully understand how frustrating and concerning it can be. In fact, addressing these types of issues is one of the primary reasons for implementing this new treatment program. If you experience discoloration:
Run cold water for several minutes until the water clears
Avoid washing clothes until the water is clear
Contact Oldham County Water if the issue persists
If you experience discolored water, please notify us immediately so our crews can respond as quickly as possible.
Coordination Throughout the Community We are working closely with the LaGrange Utilities Commission and remain in contact with local fire departments throughout this process. Hydrant flow testing and emergency preparedness remain critically important. However, during this temporary treatment transition, sudden or unscheduled flow changes can disturb sediment in nearby areas and contribute to temporary discoloration. We greatly appreciate the cooperation and coordination of our community partners during this time.
Appreciation for Our Crews and Customers This work requires an extraordinary effort from our field crews and operations staff, many of whom are working extended hours to complete this process safely and effectively. We also recognize that increased flushing activity, temporary discoloration, and construction-related activity can test the patience of our customers. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we complete these important improvements. We firmly believe the result of this work will be the best water quality Oldham County has ever experienced. For questions or concerns, please contact Oldham County Water District at 502-222-1690.
OCWD is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Oldham County Water District is a proud member of the Oldham Chamber and Economic Development. We are invested in Oldham County and truly care about our Community.