Water, Sewer & Hydrant Flushing

Most Recent Update

Following the recent heavy rainfall events, water levels in North Pond have begun to rise. However, the accompanying high winds caused sediment to be stirred up within the pond, which subsequently led to a blockage in the intake pipe. This issue resulted in the issuance of a precautionary boil water order for the community.

Our crews are actively working to clear sediment from around the intake pipe to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Once this work is completed, we will begin the process required to lift the precautionary boil water order in accordance with provincial guidelines.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all residents for adhering to the water ban and for continuing to reduce overall water consumption. Your cooperation has been instrumental in managing our water resources during this challenging period.

While water levels have improved, conditions remain fragile, and the water ban must remain in effect until further notice.

In addition, we are exploring alternative measures to supplement North Pond’s water supply. Water samples have been collected and submitted for testing, with results expected next week.

We appreciate your continued patience and understanding as we work diligently to restore normal water service.

The Town would like to remind residents that if you need to contact the Town outside of regular office hours, you may do so by calling (709) 437 - 6532. The answering service will ensure that 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'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.