Hydrant Flushing

Hydrant flushing will begin (weather permitting) the week of September 11, 2023.

To protect the City's water supply, all Cottage Grove water mains will be flushed twice a year. Once in the fall and once in the spring. Notification of the flushing will be posted on the City's website and on Facebook. The crews begin in Zone One and finish in Zone Four. Please check the flushing zones map to see what zone you reside in.

Hydrant flushing serves two purposes: to ensure proper operation and to purge stagnant water and minerals from the distribution system. Hydrants identified as needing maintenance are repaired after flushing is completed.

This process often causes discoloration of your water. The water is safe to drink but could stain laundry. Check for discoloration before using your washer. The Public Works Department also suggests you flush out the taps in your home, as iron deposits tend to build up in the residential lines. Once hydrants have been flushed, open the outside faucets and run all the cold water taps in your home until the water runs clear. This can sometimes take 10 to 30 minutes.