A pump failure on June 16 has disrupted water service to a portion of the District of Elkford.

The motor on the pump serving the affected zone failed, interrupting service. The District of Elkford’s crews are working to restore service, and we continue to assess available options to do so safely.

The affected system was built with two wells and two pumps to provide redundancy. Under normal operating conditions, the pumps run in sequence, and either pump can operate independently.

Earlier this year, the larger of the two pumps was scheduled for removal and rebuild. During that process, we determined that the pump had wear that could not be repaired, and a replacement unit was ordered. That replacement pump is still in production and has not yet been delivered.

With that pump out of service, the remaining pump continued to supply the affected zone. On June 16, the motor on that pump failed.

Our crews and electrical contractor assessed the motor, but they were unable to complete the repair locally. We then disconnected the motor and transported it to Calgary for assessment and repair by our regular contractor. The contractor is treating the work as a priority.

Based on the preliminary assessment, the motor appears repairable. At this time, we do not expect it to be ready for reinstallation before June 18 at the earliest. Once the motor is repaired and reinstalled, we expect to be able to restore water to the system.

“District staff have been working hard to respond to this disruption and support affected residents,” said Mayor Steve Fairbairn. “We know this has had a real impact on people, and we appreciate the patience, cooperation and neighbourly support shown across the community while this work continues.”

A boil water advisory will remain in place for the affected area after water service is restored. It will remain in effect until we complete the required flushing, chlorination and water quality testing. That process typically takes several days and must be completed before the advisory can be lifted.

We are also reviewing alternate options to restore service to the affected zone sooner, provided they can be implemented safely and without risk to the system. Recent upgrades to the water system improved redundancy and connectivity in this area, which has helped limit the number of properties affected.

“We are committed to providing clear and consistent information as this response continues,” said Jeff McConnell, Chief Administrative Officer. “Residents should continue to look to the District of Elkford website and the District’s Facebook page for official updates as information is confirmed. In the meantime, staff will continue working to support water access and respond to this disruption across the affected area.”

The district wishes to extend our sincere gratitude to all the businesses, residents and partner organizations who have supported the response efforts.

Updates will continue as additional information is confirmed, and the next update will be provided before this evening.

District of Elkford

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