Drought Response: What You Need to Know

During drought conditions, residents may occasionally see Clifton Water employees running water from hydrants, valves, or sampling points. While this may appear counterintuitive, this water use is necessary and carefully controlled. Flushing and sampling are required to protect public health and cannot be fully suspended, even during water shortages. The District takes steps to minimize the amount of water used while continuing these critical operations.

Sample Station Flushing

The District is required to collect bacteriological samples on a weekly basis. To ensure these samples accurately represent water from the main distribution line—not water that may have been sitting stagnant in the sample station piping—staff must flush the line for approximately two to three minutes. This process helps verify that the water supply is safe, ensures compliance with mandatory public health standards, and allows for early detection of potential pathogens.

Fire Hydrant Flushing

Fire hydrant flushing—conducted during normal conditions and even during drought—is essential to maintaining water quality and system reliability. Flushing helps remove sediment, reduce water age, and maintain adequate chlorine residuals. It also confirms that hydrants are fully operational and ready for emergency use. Routine maintenance keeps water moving through the system, preventing stagnation and supporting the long‑term integrity of the pipes.

While it may appear that water is being wasted, hydrant flushing is a critical preventive measure used by the Clifton Water District to ensure our customers continue to receive safe, clean, and reliable drinking water.

Dead-End Flushing

Dead‑end water mains are sections of the water distribution system that do not loop back into the main network. These lines are commonly located in cul‑de‑sacs or areas planned for future growth. Because water does not circulate as regularly in these pipes—especially when mains are oversized and demand is low—water turnover can be minimal.

Flushing dead‑end mains during drought conditions may seem counterintuitive from a conservation standpoint, but it remains a critical practice for maintaining high drinking water quality. Flushing helps prevent stagnant water in low‑demand areas, removes sediment that naturally accumulates over time, and ensures adequate chlorine residuals are maintained throughout the system.

Without routine flushing, water quality can deteriorate, potentially affecting taste, odor, disinfectant effectiveness, and overall public health protection. Even during drought conditions, providing safe, clean, and reliable drinking water to the community must remain a top priority.