What You Need to Know
As Baltimore continues to experience drought conditions and reservoir levels remain historically low, the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) is taking the proactive step in preparing for a prolonged drought.
On Tuesday, July 14, DPW will conduct a one-day test of the infrastructure and operating procedures used to convey water from the Susquehanna River during severe drought conditions. This is a planned equipment test to ensure Baltimore is ready if drought conditions worsen later this year.
Baltimore is not currently using the Susquehanna River for drinking water. In fact, the City only draws from the Susquehanna during periods of severe drought, and it has been more than 20 years since that was necessary. While current conditions have not reached that point, testing now ensures the equipment, systems and procedures are ready, if needed.
This is only a test.
- Water from the Susquehanna River will be pumped to Montebello Water Treatment Plant No. 1 to verify that the system operates properly.
- The water will not be treated for drinking and will not enter Baltimore's drinking water distribution system.
- The water will be diverted to Lake Montebello before reaching the Montebello Plant. Pedestrian access to Lake Momtebello will remain open during the test.
When Will Testing Occur?
- Monday, July 13: Lake Montebello's water level will be lowered by approximately two feet to prepare for the test.
- Tuesday, July 14: Testing will begin around 7:30 a.m. and conclude around 5:30 p.m.
What Residents May Notice
Visitors to Lake Montebello may notice temporary changes during and shortly after the test, including:
- Lower water levels beginning Monday.
- A brown tint in the lake water.
- A temporary fish-like odor—not a sewage odor—that may last for up to 48 hours after the test concludes.
These conditions are expected, temporary, and do not pose a risk to public health.
Your Drinking Water Will Not Be Affected
The Susquehanna River water used during this test will not be treated and will not be delivered to homes or businesses in Baltimore City or Baltimore County. Baltimore's drinking water will continue to come from the City's reservoir system and be treated through normal operations.
If future drought conditions ever require Baltimore to use Susquehanna River water as part of its drinking water supply, DPW's treatment facilities are fully equipped to treat that water to meet all state and federal drinking water standards before it reaches customers.
Learn more about Baltimore's water system and water quality.
Why Lake Montebello?
Lake Montebello is much more than a scenic destination. While it is a popular place for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors, it is also a critical part of Baltimore's drinking water system. The lake plays an important operational role in the City's water infrastructure.
About the Susquehanna River
The Susquehanna River is connected to Baltimore's water supply as an emergency source during severe droughts. The river begins in Cooperstown, New York, flows through Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and empties into the Chesapeake Bay at Havre de Grace, Maryland. Because river water naturally contains more sediment than Baltimore's reservoirs, it appears darker and more turbid, which is why residents may notice temporary discoloration and a fish-like odor in Lake Montebello during the test.
Conservation Still Matters
Earlier this summer, DPW asked residents to voluntarily conserve water, and that request remains in effect. Every gallon saved helps preserve reservoir supplies while Baltimore continues preparing for the possibility of prolonged drought conditions.
Simple ways to conserve include:
- Skip watering lawns.
- Take shorter showers.
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth.
- Use commercial car washes that recycle water instead of washing vehicles at home.
DPW will continue to monitor drought conditions closely and will keep residents informed of any changes to the City's water supply or conservation measures.