Water, Sewer & Hydrant Flushing

Most Recent Update on North Pond Water Levels

Water levels continue to rise in North Pond. Although the pond is now completely frozen over as of this morning, the Town is continuing with its plan to pump water from Whiteways Pond into North Pond. Without this additional supply, we cannot guarantee a reliable water source throughout the winter months.

Residents will notice work taking place near the rock cut north of Indian Meal Line on the bypass road, as well as along the bypass road between Whiteways Pond and North Pond. This work is expected to take a few weeks to complete Please proceed through these areas with caution.

This past weekend, we experienced frazzle ice buildup around the intake screens. This occurred due to high winds and colder temperatures combined with lower-than-normal water levels. We believe this issue has now passed with the pond having frozen over.

Please note that the Water Ban and Precautionary Boil Water Order will remain in effect until North Pond reaches an acceptable water level.

The Town of Torbay would like to thank residents for their continued patience and support during this challenging time. We want to assure you that we are taking every necessary precaution to provide a safe and reliable water supply throughout the winter and beyond.

If you need to contact the Town outside regular office hours, please call (709) 437-6532. Our answering service will ensure your message is promptly relayed to the appropriate department.

Current Status of Town Water Use | Water Ban in Effect

Strictly Prohibited Water Use

To protect the town’s limited water supply, the following activities are not allowed:

  • Washing vehicles
  • Watering lawns or gardens
  • Filling swimming pools
  • Any other non-essential use of water

Water Conservation Tips

Residents connected to the Town water system are strongly urged to conserve water by:

  • Taking shorter showers instead of baths
  • Turning off taps while brushing teeth or shaving
  • Delaying use of laundry machines and dishwashers
  • Washing dishes by hand using minimal water
  • Using rain barrels to collect water for non-drinking purposes

Every drop counts. These simple steps can make a big difference.

Enforcement

Municipal Enforcement Officers are actively monitoring for violations. Penalties may apply for non-compliance with the water ban.

We thank all residents for their cooperation during this critical time. Stay informed — updates will be provided as conditions change.

Water & Sewer

The Town of Torbay currently operates and maintains both a sanitary sewer system and a water distribution system. Some of the infrastructure dates back to the 1950s and requires constant monitoring and repair. The Town is committed to providing clean safe water to its residents and continually monitors water quality, water levels, and consumption to ensure the water system is performing to optimal conditions!

The Town of Torbay's sanitary sewer system is a complex system of piping and pumps requiring maintenance and upgrades on a regular basis. A number of upgrades have been identified as a result of comprehensive studies undertaken to assess the current and future capacities of the systems. Additional studies will aid in developing priority lists to ensure that the Town is moving in the right direction in future water and sewer upgrades and projects!

Hydrant Flushing

Our annual hydrant flushing program commences in June and continues into the Summer season. Hydrant flushing is a vital maintenance operation that improves water quality, extends the life of pipes, and ensures hydrants are functioning properly in the event of an emergency.

Real-time updates of completed flushing can be found by clicking the following link:

https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/a51770f5483a4b778d0971a275dbe616

Flushing will generally follow the below progression throughout the Town:

  1. Reddy Drive/North Pond Road area
  2. Marine Drive area
  3. Torbay Road area and intersecting streets from North Pond Road to Whitten’s Lane
  4. Bauline Line/Patrick’s Path/Country Drive area and intersecting streets

During the flushing program, residents throughout the Town can expect reduced water pressure, discolouration, and momentary interruption of water service. The Town advises residents to please refrain from doing laundry during these times as discoloration may cause staining of clothing.

If your water is discoloured, please run your outside tap or bathtub until clear. After flushing is completed it is recommended to drain your hot water tank to remove any buildup of sediment which can extend the life of your tank.

 

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