MANLIUS, N.Y. — As mandatory water conservation continues across parts of Central New York, crews in Manlius are taking additional steps to reduce demand on the municipal water system while repairs move forward on a major transmission main break.
Friday night, a duty crew with the Fayetteville Fire Department used a portable generator and an electric submersible pump to draw water from a nearby stream. The water was stored in a 275-gallon tank and will be used to wash salt and grime off fire apparatus, avoiding the use of municipal water during the conservation period.
Officials say efforts like these, combined with strong cooperation from residents and businesses, are helping keep water flowing across the system.
On Jan. 2, Manlius officials reported that water distribution efforts went smoothly, with approximately 3,400 cases of bottled water handed out. Some deliveries were also made to residents unable to reach distribution sites. Officials said the response highlighted the community’s commitment to conserving water during the emergency.
There was also positive news from the system itself. According to OCWA, about 2.8 million gallons of water are currently flowing into the system, while about 2.3 million gallons are flowing out. While reservoir levels remain low, officials say the system is now gaining water, a sign that conservation efforts are working.
Progress is also being made on repairs. Officials say if repairs stay on schedule and conservation continues, conditions could stabilize within the next couple of weeks.
Mandatory water conservation remains in effect for customers in the towns of Manlius, Pompey, DeWitt, Sullivan, Lenox, and Lincoln, including the villages of Minoa, Fayetteville, Manlius, East Syracuse, Chittenango, and Canastota.
OCWA continues to urge residents to limit water use wherever possible, saying conservation remains the key to maintaining service while additional water sources and repairs are completed. More information and updates are available at ocwa.org.