MD Begins Tapping Susquehanna River For Water Amid Persisting Drought

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Effective Monday, the Susquehanna River will supplement water supplies for parts of the Baltimore Metro region amid persistent drought conditions.

The Baltimore County Department of Public Works and Transportation announced Saturday that Baltimore City officials would start pulling water from the Susquehanna to supplement it with water from the Prettyboy and Loch Raven reservoirs.

A timeline for how long the changeover would be in place was not outlined.

"The length of time Susquehanna River water will be used will depend on rainfall, reservoir recovery and overall water-supply conditions," the release said.

What Will Happen?

Authorities said Susquehanna supplies would be specifically blended with Loch Raven water. It would be treated and tested at the Montebelle Water Filtration Plant at 3901 Hillen Road.

"You may notice a slight change in taste, odor or color in your water. It will remain safe for drinking, bathing, and cooking," the county said in a release. "The use of Susquehanna River water is a response to prolonged drought conditions and declining reservoir levels."

The change in water supply will directly impact Baltimore County residents from Cockeysville to Perry Hall, Middle River, Dundalk, Arbutus, and Baltimore City.

Related:

• Officials Warn Of Possible Diesel Odor As Leak Hits Baltimore County Waterway
• MD Turns to Susquehanna River As Drought Drains Water Supplies: What To Know

Officials underscored that the water supply shift was "unrelated to the recent diesel fuel leak at the Baltimore County Detention Center, which has not affected the region’s drinking water supply."

See map of impacted areas below:

Residents whose water is supplied by the Liberty reservoir will not be impacted.

How Can Residents Help?

Residents are being urged to continue conserving water until further notice. A few options individuals can follow, according to the county, include:

• Repairing leaking faucets, hoses and fixtures.
• Running only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
• Taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing teeth or shaving.
• Postponing lawn and garden watering.
• Avoiding washing sidewalks, driveways and other outdoor surfaces.
• Limiting the washing of cars, boats and equipment.
• Reporting any water main breaks or leaks to authorities by either calling (443) 263-2220 or (410) 396-5352, or submitting a report online.

The region has previously pulled water from the Susquehanna River for emergency purposes, although county officials have not specified when it was last used.