Medford Water lifts emergency water use restrictions
MEDFORD, Ore. — Medford Water lifted all emergency water use restrictions Wednesday evening at 5:00 p.m.. All non-essential use is permitted, including indoor and outdoor uses.
Medford Water said the failure occurred in a bundle of power conductors that feed the water intake pumps at the Rogue River. These conductors also compromised the backup generator.
The cause of the equipment failure is under investigation.
Update from August 27 at 11:30 a.m.:
Medford Water announced Wednesday morning that the water-use restrictions have been extended until further notice. This comes after restrictions were expected to be lifted at noon on Wednesday.
Medford water says current demand levels indicate that non-essential water usage is still occurring and emphasizes the need for non-essential use to be eliminated.
A closer look at what restrictions entail can be found below.
Water use restrictions
| Not Permitted: | Permitted: |
|---|---|
| Irrigation of gardens, lawns, plants | Drinking |
| Filling of pools and ponds | Cooking |
| Ornamental fountains that use drinking water | Showering |
| Construction use | Toilet use |
| Washing of sidewalks, driveways, buildings | Laundry |
| All non-essential outdoor use | Other essential indoor water use |
Update from August 26 at 4 p.m.:
Medford Water announced that water-use restrictions will remain in place until 12 p.m. Wednesday to allow reservoir level to return to normal, which can support both domestic and emergency use.
Medford Water said water remains safe to drink and normal indoor water usage for drinking, toilet us and other health use is still permitted.
Update from August 26 at 1 p.m.:
NewsWatch 12 reached out to a representative from Pacific Power who said they were asked to turn off the water plants power in order for them to make repairs. We also reached out to Medford Water Commission, but haven’t heard back. This is still a developing story, and we will update when we know more.
Original article from August 26 at 8:30 a.m.:
Medford Water is urging residents to immediately cut back on non-essential water use to safeguard supplies for public health and fire emergencies. This comes after a power outage at the Robert A. Duff Water Treatment Plant Tuesday morning.
Restricted water use prohibits the following:
- All lawn/turf irrigation
- All irrigation of gardens and ornamental plants
- Ornamental fountains that use drinking water, car washing except at facilities that recycle, all non-emergency hydrant use (including device permits) and water main flushing, dust control
- Using water at construction sites, washing sidewalks, streets, deck and driveways (except as necessary for public health/safety)
- Washing of buildings, filling or adding to landscape ponds or public/private swimming pools
- All non-essential water use
Restrictions also apply to properties within Central Point, Eagle Point, Phoenix Talent, Jacksonville and White City.
These restrictions are mandatory and failure to comply could result in substantial rate surcharges and/or fines. Restrictions will remain in effect until the plant is fully operational and able to meet system demand.
Medford Water says they are working with Pacific Power on repairs and to get equipment back online.
There is no estimated time on when the plant will be able to treat water for current demands, but Medford Water says it may be some time.
Medford Water’s Customer Service Department can be contacted at (541) 774 — 2430 during business hours.