This week, the Portland Water Bureau returned the city to 100-percent Bull Run sourced water. Since August 24th, Portlanders have consumed blended water partially supplied by groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field. In recent years, the utility operator repeatedly activated its secondary groundwater supply to supplement or replace Bull Run drinking water. Dryer conditions in the region have reduced above-ground sources during the warmer months, and extreme weather events cloud the supply by depositing extra organic material into the waterways.
Portland’s groundwater system provides safe drinking water to the region even as the changing climate and expanded demand stress the city’s supply. Without it, this year’s dry spring and extended summer weather could have required rationing efforts or other costly alternatives. This year’s Camp Creek wildfire near the Bull Run watershed further illustrated the need for a protected secondary water system. Despite this fire’s growth to within 1.3 miles of Reservoir 1, Portlanders were never at risk of losing access to drinkable water. The wildfire ultimately did not damage the watershed, and the Bull Run supply remains safe for another year.
It can take up to two weeks for ratepayers to receive 100 percent Bull Run water as the system switches over from the 60 percent groundwater mixture. Portlanders pay for these water security investments through their water bill. The Columbia South Shore Well Field is an example of planning that has paid off in water system resiliency. The Portland Water Bureau is now planning a new filtration facility to maximize the availability of Bull Run sourced water and ensure that the water source remains healthy to use even when some natural contaminants enter the system.
Depending on rainfall and snowpack in 2024, the Portland Water Bureau may need to switch the water system back to using groundwater again. That source is safe for most people and exceeds standards for drinking water. However, sensitive water users can sign up at the Portland Water Bureau’s website to receive notifications regarding changes to the water system. Customers with questions should call the Water Line at 503-823-7525.
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