Water

Rehabilitation Project

Harris County MUD No. 368 is in the process of rehabilitating the infrastructure at the Water Plant No. 1 site located at 19412 ½ Scarlett Cove. The water plant has three steel ground storage tanks which are responsible for storing the treated water that is sent to the customers within the MUD. In order to ensure water quality standards are met and to extend the longevity of the storage tanks and associated infrastructure, the MUD has a regular inspection and maintenance program for each water plant. 

The rehabilitation project includes protective coatings for the steel interior and exterior surfaces of the storage and pressure tanks at the project site, as well as some structural modifications to ensure the facilities are up to date with current codes and regulations. This work will require vehicle and construction equipment movement and activity in and out of this facility. This construction activity is anticipated to last through February 2023.

If anyone has questions or concerns regarding the construction activities, please contact IDS Engineering Group at 713-462-3178.

Lead and Copper Testing

The District will be conducting routine sampling in spring of 2023 per EPA regulations for lead and copper. There are only a limited number of samples that are required.

For those residents we will deliver a bottle to your front door that has instructions on how to obtain the sample from your kitchen faucet. The sample bottle will be a one-quart plastic bottle and will have specific instructions attached.

The notice also has our contact number 281-374-8989, if you have any questions.

Once we receive the results from the State approved testing facility, we will mail you the results.

Backflow Prevention Devices Help Safeguard the Water Supply

When water flows backwards through the water supply system, it is called backsiphonage or backflow. When that water is accidentally mixed with hazardous chemicals or bacteria, it can be dangerous…even fatal!

The danger could come from improperly installed pools and sprinkler systems. In many districts, homeowners are required to have their water district inspect a new pool or sprinkler system to help prevent this problem. (Check with your district about specific rules and regulations governing pools, spas, and irrigation systems.)

Another potential danger to the water system comes from a surprising source. Did you know that a common garden hose could contaminate the water supply if it is connected to a harmful substance and the pressure in the water main line drops while your hose is submerged in polluted or contaminated water? The water (and whatever is in it) could be sucked back into your pipes and your drinking water supply.

Water pressure drops can happen when firefighters battle a nearby blaze or when repairs are made due to a broken water line. This contamination could come from the chemicals used to fertilize and kill weeds on your lawn. The cleansers used in your kitchen and bathroom could be hazardous if swallowed, as could bacteria in the water from your pool or waterbed.

backflowFortunately, keeping your water safe from these contaminants is not that difficult to do. Take the following precautions to protect your drinking water:

  • Buy and install inexpensive backflow prevention devices for all threaded faucets around your home. They are usually available at hardware stores and home improvement centers.

  • If you install a pool or sprinkler system, have a representative from your water district inspect the device for proper installation, whether this is required or not.

  • Never submerge hoses in buckets, pools, tubs or sinks.

  • Always keep the end of the hose clear of possible contaminants.

  • Do not use spray attachments without a backflow prevention device. The chemicals used on your lawn are toxic and can be fatal if ingested.

Article reprinted with permission from waterdistrict.com.