Unidirectional Flushing

About The Project

As part of our Greene Forward initiative, Greene County Sanitary Engineering (GCSED) began implementing Unidirectional Flushing (UDF) on March 27, 2023. This system-wide maintenance is necessary to prepare for upcoming water treatment improvements.

UDF is a proactive method of cleaning water mains by flushing water in a controlled, one-way direction. This process removes mineral deposits and sediment, improving water quality and restoring system capacity in your neighborhood. It involves opening and closing valves in a specific sequence to direct water flow efficiently.

Our crews will be working between the hours of 8AM and 4PM. Flushing areas will be broken down into zones and it is will occur in one zone per week. Weekly flushing maps will be posted here and on our Facebook page every Monday.

Below is the current area and zones for the week of March 24, 2025.

Benefits

Improved Water Quality – Removes mineral deposits and sediment, ensuring cleaner, better-tasting water.
Enhanced System Efficiency – Restores water flow capacity and improves overall system performance.
Proactive Maintenance – Helps prevent pipe corrosion and reduces the risk of water discoloration.
Extended Infrastructure Lifespan – Reduces wear and tear on pipes, delaying the need for costly repairs.
Better Fire Protection – Ensures hydrants are functioning properly and delivering optimal water pressure.

Impacts to customers

Flushing occurs Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4 PM
Visible Water Flow – You may see large amounts of water flowing from fire hydrants for extended periods. While this may seem wasteful, it is the most effective way to maintain our pipes and keep water clean. The expelled water returns to surface runoff and helps recharge the aquifer.
Temporary Pressure Drops – Water pressure may decrease while flushing is underway in your area. If possible, minimize water use during this time to prevent particles from entering your home or business plumbing.
Discolored Water – Some residents may notice temporary discoloration. If this happens, run COLD water in the lowest-level bathtub or faucets for 5–10 minutes until clear. If the water remains discolored after 10 minutes, contact our Utility Maintenance team:
- Monday – Friday (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM): 937-562-7108
- After hours: 937-562-7450
Laundry Precautions – Discolored water can stain laundry. Avoid washing until your water runs clear. If staining occurs, do not dry the laundry—rewash it after clearing your lines.

We understand this may cause some inconvenience, but UDF is essential for maintaining a high-quality water supply. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep Greene County’s water system clean, safe, and efficient.