Algae Update
Harmful Algal Blooms or HABs are large growths of colonies of algae that may produce toxins in the lakes and streams we use as water sources.
This year's bloom
According to predictions, heavy rainfall from this spring could lead to a severe bloom in Lake Erie. No matter how bad the bloom is, many are asking if we could see a repeat of the 2014 water crisis.
Treatment Processes in Place
The District purchases water from various suppliers. Two of them, the Cities of Toledo and Oregon, use Lake Erie as a water source. Toledo has invested millions in its water treatment plant and has numerous preventative measures in place to ensure that your water stays safe.
Monitoring for HABs has improved, and treatment providers have advanced notice in choosing methods to prevent HABs from contaminating the water supply.
All public water suppliers are required by the Ohio EPA to sample regularly for cyanobacteria. Water systems such as Toledo and Oregon have installed data collection devices in the raw water supply to give operators advance notice of any water quality changes, which allows for necessary operational adjustments to be made to the treatment process before the water arrives at the plant. Additionally, Toledo and Oregon have enhanced their ability to treat HABs through processes that aid in the removal of algal cells and destroy any that remain.
With all of these improvements, we realize that many are still concerned about HABs. We advise the following:
- Know where your water comes from.
- Sign up for emergency notifications with CODE RED
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends you keep a supply of water for all types of disasters.
What the Henry County Merger Means for You
Due to various administrative and financial concerns, the Henry County Regional Water and Sewer District (HCRWSD) asked to merge with The Northwestern Water and Sewer District. Both parties are currently in the process of exploring a merger.
If approved, a merger would add approximately 400 customers and expand The District's service territory to include all of Henry County with the exception of Ridgeville Township plus Providence Township in Lucas County.
This merger will not impact rates or service to our current District customers. The District believes that once we assume billing and collections in Henry County, the financial issues will be resolved. By using efficient operational practices, shared resources, and technology, The District has the capacity and skilled workforce to provide quality service to all customers.
Announcements
District Board of Trustees Meetings is held on the second and fourth Thursday of every month at 7:30 a.m. Board meetings are open to the public.
- The District office will be closed, Monday, September 2nd in observance of Labor Day
Construction Corner
Current Projects
District-Wide Hydrant Flushing
On weekdays from 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., crews will be flushing and testing fire hydrants throughout The District. Residents are advised to flush water from taps if water becomes discolored.
McComb Wastewater Treatment Plant
Watch for construction traffic around Scott Street in McComb. Project investment: $7.6 million.
Northwood-East Broadway Valve Installation
Through October, watch for shoulder restrictions and construction crews between Wales and Andrus roads for valve installation. Project complete: October. Project investment: $480,000.
Weston-Meter/ Meter Pit Relocation
Through October, short-term water service shut-offs are possible in various locations in Weston for meter pit relocation. Project investment: $303,000.
District Board of Trustees Members
All nine of our board members serve on three-year terms. Each year, three board seats are up for an appointment. Of these annual openings, one is appointed by The Wood County Commissioners, one by the municipalities that are members of The District (13), and one from the townships in Wood County.
During August, we forward the nominations that have been received to the appropriate members, who vote for their nominee by December 31st. Their term begins with the first board meeting in January.