News
October 16, 2024
KWD has a vacant position in the Distribution Department for a Distribution Technician. Please head over to our careers page for more information!
September 24, 2024
Hydrant Flushing
The Kennebec Water District will perform routine maintenance of the water system by opening fire hydrants September 30 through October 25, 2024. This work improves water quality by flushing sediment out of the water lines. Your drinking water may be discolored during this period. If any discoloration persists more than 24 hours, please call the Kennebec Water District office at 872-2763.
Rate Increase
KWD held a public hearing for the proposed 2025 and 2026 rate increases on September 17, 2024. The hearing is available for viewing on YouTube. For more a link to the video and more information about the rate increase please visit https://kennebecwater.org/publichearing.
June 5, 2024
To better protect public health and improve the consistency of the water produced at Kennebec Water District’s (KWD) water treatment plant, KWD is seeking a permit through the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to discharge excess process water into the Outlet Stream.
KWD is applying for a permit to discharge excess process water into the Outlet Stream. The excess process water was originally withdrawn from China Lake, and the chemical properties remains similar to the water within the Outlet Stram. Currently, this water is being reprocessed through the water treatment plant to produce finished water, however the consistency of the process will improve when this water is discharged off-site. More information about KWD’s water treatment process can be found at https://kennebecwater.org/water-quality/treatment-process/ and copies of the water quality analysis will be included in the permit application.
The Formal Notice of Intent to File Maine Waste Discharge License / Maine Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Application can be found here:
A public informational meeting regarding this discharge will be held at the KWD water treatment plant on June 12, 2024, at 1:00 PM, however if you have any questions regarding this project before then, please contact Robbie Bickford, Water Quality Manager, at 207-861-4368 or via email at RBickford@kennebecwater.org
May 13, 2024
During a main break on May 7th on Kennedy Memorial Drive we discovered that the two traffic light poles (and their respective concrete foundations) on either side of the Shaw’s Plaza entrance were constructed just above our water main making it impossible to maintain.
We have a contractor working to re-route our water main around the light structures with a goal of finishing the week of May 20th. During this time there will be both water service and traffic interruptions in the area. Thank you for your patience as we work through this challenging project.
May 8, 2024
We have restored water service to all customers on KMD with the exception of one customer with whom we are working with directly. We apologize for the inconvenience this break has caused, it’s been challenging to say the least. Today’s work allowed us to restore water service for now, but we still have to repair the broken water main underneath the traffic light foundation. We are in discussions with the City of Waterville and Maine DOT to identify the best long term solution. Thank you all for your patience.
May 7, 2024
We regret to announce we have another main break on Kennedy Memorial Drive in Waterville. This break is located at the entrance to the Shaw’s Plaza.
We are planning on shutting down the water at approximately 1 pm today. As part of the repair work done on Friday evening, we added an additional valve so the area impacted by the shutdown will be much smaller and is anticipated to only include businesses on KMD (both sides) from Shaw’s Plaza westward to the top of the hill (Irving/Nouria).
Other customers affected by the shutdown on Friday should continue to have water service, although you will likely experience lower water pressure.
We apologize for this service disruption, especially because it occurs only days after the last main break. We recommend checking out our Facebook page for the latest updates: https://www.facebook.com/kennebecwaterdistrict.
May 1, 2024
Starting May 1, enroll in AutoPay or make two consecutive online payments for your chance to win a $500 Visa gift card. Sweepstakes runs until December 1, 2024, so sign up today! Visit www.kennebecwater.org/sweepstakes for more info.
April 18, 2024
The Kennebec Water District will perform routine maintenance of the water system by opening fire hydrants April 22, 2024 through May 24, 2024. This work improves water quality by flushing sediment out of the water lines. Your drinking water may be discolored during this period. If any discoloration persists more than 24 hours, please call the Kennebec Water District office at 872-2763.
March 21, 2024
Work is set to begin on the Pleasant Street Area Water Main Improvements Project on April 1st, 2024. This project will replace the water mains on Pleasant Street, Pleasant Place, Center Street and Pleasant Court. To limit impacts on residents, businesses and motorists traveling in the Pleasant Street area, this project will be completed in three phases. Phase one will cover Pleasant Street from Main Street to North Street. Phase two will include Pleasant Street from North Street to Park Street, Pleasant Place, Center Street and Pleasant Court. Phase three will cover Pleasant Street from Park Street to Western Avenue.
The following notice was delivered to all residents and businesses within the project area on February 27th:
KWD has prepared a detail information video regarding the Pleasant Street Area Water Main Improvements Project that covers the need for the project, project timeline, temporary water system and expected traffic modifications.
The YouTube video is linked here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cv0duQZ-Cr8
Anyone with questions regarding the project should contact KWD at 207.872.2763 and ask for the District’s Project Engineer Max Kenney.
January 22, 2024
A new job opening for Distribution Technician (1, 2, or 3) has been posted. Please see our employment opportunities page.
November 28, 2023
Following the completion of the required bacteria testing, the Boil Water Order issued on 11/27/2023 for Bay St, China Rd between Lithgow St and Cushman Rd, and Cushman Rd North of Norton St (including Clifford Ave, Stuart St, and Lessard St) in Winslow is no longer necessary.
For those within the Boil Water Order area, you may now resume normal use of the water.
If you have any questions regarding the safety of your drinking water, please contact KWD at 207-872-2763.
November 27, 2023
In response to the main break on Bay St in Winslow last night, and out of an abundance of caution, KWD is issuing a Boil Water Order for customers on Bay St, China Rd between Lithgow St and Cushman Rd, and Cushman Rd North of Norton St (including Clifford Ave, Stuart St, and Lessard St) in Winslow.
Any customers within the affected area described above are directed to boil all water for one minute at a rolling boil before any consumption.
Any questions regarding this Boil Water Order can be directed to KWD at 207-872-2763 or the State of Maine Drinking Water Program at 207-287-2070.
October 2, 2023
The Kennebec Water District will perform routine maintenance of the water system by opening fire hydrants October 4th through October 27th, 2023. This work improves water quality by flushing sediment out of the water lines. Your drinking water may be discolored during this period. If any discoloration persists more than 24 hours, please call the Kennebec Water District office at 872-2763.
August 14, 2023
June 21, 2023
We’re excited to announce that we have a moving date to our new operations and administration facility at 131 Drummond Avenue in Waterville. We will be closing our Cool Street business office permenantly at 3pm on July 13th, will be closed all day on July 14th, and will reopen for business on July 17th at our new facility on Drummond Avenue. Please stay tuned to our website and social media for more updates about the new building including an open house.
May 23, 2023
Test results from samples collected early Tuesday morning show no indication of the firefighting foam in the water. Based on these results, and in consultation with the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program, the Kennebec Water District is lifting the Do Not Drink Order established Monday, May 22, 2023.
We encourage all customers to run water at each tap for 3-5 minutes to flush the lines within your home or business. If you experienced any unusual foaming or odor during this event, increase your flushing time to at least 15 minutes.
Water can now be used for drinking, brushing teeth, cooking, and other usual activities. KWD will continue to monitor the water system for any signs of unusual water quality.
May 22, 2023 – Frequently Asked Questions
Updated 5/22/23 8:14 pm
1. How long before the water is safe to drink?
We have arranged for a laboratory in Southern Maine to analyze water samples Tuesday (5/23/23) and sample results are anticipated by the end of the same day. If the results are free from contamination, the do not drink order will be lifted.
2. How did firefighting foam enter the water system?
While fighting a fire at Elm Towers on Elm Street in Waterville the Waterville Fire Department injected firefighting foam into a standpipe that serves the upper floors of the building to help fight the fire. Some of the foam entered the KWD distribution system after back feeding through the building’s fire service.
3. How much of the chemical has entered the water system?
Based upon data from the fire department it is likely less than one gallon of chemical was used and some percentage of that volume was used to fight the fire.
4. Why is the “Do Not Drink” order being issued community wide?
We have issued the Do Not Drink order out of an abundance of caution. The impacted area is likely much less.
5. How will we know when the water will be safe to drink?
The Kennebec Water District will be collecting water samples where foamy water has been observed. These samples will be tested by a laboratory that can detect the components of the firefighting foam. Once we have obtained the results, we will notify the public.
6. What if I have already consumed the water?
The contamination has generally been limited to the areas in Waterville along Elm Street and northerly along Main Street. Customers with contamination have noted significant foam in cups and sinks. If you have not seen foam in your water, your home’s water has likely not been impacted. KWD issued the system wide notice out of an abundance of caution for the protection of public health. If you are feeling ill, you should contact your health care provider or contact the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
A copy of the safety data sheet for the fire fighting foam can be found below:
7. What do I do if I have foam in my water?
Run your cold water for at least 15 minutes and if the foam persists let us know so we can track the locations within the distribution system.
8. Does this foam contain PFAS?
No. The firefighting foam used does not contain any PFAS compounds and is biodegradable.
9. What should I do if I cannot afford bottled water?
We are trying to identify potential resources but don’t have anything to offer at this time. We will be sure to spread the word if/when identified. In the meantime, we’re working as fast as we can to get the water flushed and tested so the drinking water order lifted.
10. What is being done to remove foam from the system?
We are strategically flushing the hydrants within the distribution system.
11. Will my water filter remove this product?
We are advising that no one drinks the water regardless of whether they have a filter system or not.
12. What is being done to prevent this from happening again?
All fire suppression sprinkler connections are required to have special valves to prevent water from entering the distribution system. KWD will be working with fire suppression customers to verify that this type of valve is part of the fire suppression system.
13. Can I was dishes with my tap water?
Yes. Unless you are currently noticing foam from your tap water, you can safely use your tap water to wash your dishes.
May 22, 2023
Due to the presence of firefighting foam in the water distribution system, all customers are asked not to drink the water or use it for any purpose that will result in consumption.
During the morning of May 22, 2023, firefighting foam entered the water distribution system at the location of a structure fire at 60 Elm Street in Waterville. While the extent of the contamination is unclear, out of an abundance of caution, Kennebec Water District is issuing a system wide Do Not Drink Order.
Kennebec Water District staff are at various locations flushing the contamination out of the system. This Do not Drink Order will remain in place until water quality tests demonstrate the water is safe to drink.
Kennebec Water District staff have received guidance on testing and flushing from the Maine CDC.
While the firefighting foam is biodegradable and PFAS free, it is not safe for human consumption. Water should not be used for making ice cubes, food preparation, brushing teeth or any other activity involving the consumption of water.
The water is safe for bathing and cleaning.
The issue appears to be primarily limited to the Elm Street and Main Street areas in Waterville. Flushing is currently in progress at multiple locations. If you experience unusual foaming in your water run your cold water for 15-20 minutes from a bathtub or outside spigot. If foaming persists, please contact us at 207-872-2763. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
April 24, 2023
The Kennebec Water District will perform routine maintenance of the water system by opening fire hydrants April 24th through May 26th, 2023. This work improves water quality by flushing sediment out of the water lines. Your drinking water may be discolored during this period. If any discoloration persists more than 24 hours, please call the Kennebec Water District office at 872-2763.
February 21, 2023
TEMPORARY FLUORIDATION SUSPENSION – UPDATE 2/21/2023
The maintenance activities at the Kennebec Water District’s (KWD) Water Treatment Plant have been completed and the fluoridation adjustment in our communities’ drinking water has resumed.
For more information on fluoridation of drinking water please visit the Maine DWP – Fluoride & Fluoridation page.
February 2, 2023
Extreme cold weather is forecasted in the coming days causing an increased risk of frozen pipes, water meters, and water lines. We encourage everyone to take precautions to reduce this risk such as:
- Consider running water through faucets to help prevent plumbing on exterior walls from freezing. A minimal amount of water (the size of a #2 pencil or less) is generally sufficient. The added cost to your water bill will be far less than the cost to repair a broken pipe.
- Check for broken windows or damaged skirting.
- Caulk around pipes where they enter the house.
- Seal cracks or holes in windows, walls, or doors near the water meter or pipes.
- Leave doors on cabinets with plumbing open.
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas.
If you experience a water-related emergency, please call (207) 872-2763. However, due to the extreme cold, some emergency responses may be delayed.
December 19, 2022
The Kennebec Water District is seeking qualified candidates to fill a Distribution Technician vacancy in our Distribution Department. This skilled position is responsible for construction, operations, and maintenance on over 170 miles of buried water lines. For more information please visit the job posting here: https://kennebecwater.org/about-us/employment-opportunities/distribution-technician-levels-1-2-or-3/.
December 12, 2022
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION TEMPORARY FLUORIDATION SUSPENSION – UPDATE
Due to maintenance activities at the Kennebec Water District’s (KWD) Water Treatment Plant, the fluoridation adjustment in our communities’ drinking water will be temporarily suspended. During this time, the safety of the water will not be impacted and no change in the taste, smell or color will occur. Fluoridation adjustment is scheduled to be restored by 2/28/2023.
For more information on fluoridation of drinking water please visit the Maine DWP – Fluoride & Fluoridation page.
October 24, 2022
Since October 14, 2022, more than a dozen customers have contacted KWD regarding an earthly or musty taste and odor in the drinking water. These contacts have come from customers across KWD’s distribution system. While unpleasant, the source of the taste and odor is harmless and does not pose a health concern.
Following the increase in customer concerns, KWD’s water quality professionals increased routine monitoring both at the water treatment plant and within the distribution system. Every test result (including bacteria, pH, and chlorine testing) confirms KWD water continues to meets or exceeds the State and federal drinking water standards and the water is safe to drink and use as normal.
The harmless compounds responsible for this taste and odor come from naturally occurring algae present in China Lake (KWD’s sole source of water supply) throughout the year. However, due to the conditions of the lake in 2022, as well as normal seasonal changes, these algae are being found in higher concentrations at this time.
Unfortunately, KWD’s water treatment process does not effectively remove these odor compounds. Currently, KWD is in the process of flushing the distribution system and investigating other solutions to expedite the resolution.
In the meantime, customers affected by the taste and odor can take measures to reduce or mask the taste and odor including:
- chilling the water,
- adding ice cubes,
- adding a slice of lemon, or
- adding a few drops of lemon juice.
We appreciate your patience while we work through this issue. We are unsure how long this taste and odor will continue but based upon the experience of other water utilities, the duration will likely be a few weeks or less.
September 20, 2022
The Kennebec Water District will perform routine maintenance of the water system by opening fire hydrants September 26 through October 21, 2022. This work improves water quality by flushing sediment out of the water lines. Your drinking water may be discolored during this period. If any discoloration persists more than 24 hours, please call the Kennebec Water District office at 872-2763.
July 15, 2022
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION TEMPORARY FLUORIDATION SUSPENSION
Due to maintenance activities at the Kennebec Water District’s (KWD) Water Treatment Plant, the fluoridation adjustment in our communities’ drinking water will be temporarily suspended. During this time, the safety of the water will not be impacted and no change in the taste, smell or color will occur. Fluoridation adjustment is scheduled to be restored by 12/31/2022.
For more information on fluoridation of drinking water please visit the Maine DWP – Fluoride & Fluoridation page.
June 30, 2022
New rates are in effect as of July 1, 2022. Click here for more information.