A new kind of filter is in the process of being tested out at Wrangell's water treatment plant. Samples are currently being taken of the device's output, which runs through a cylindrical screen mesh rated to five microns. What sets it apart from the plant's current roughing filters is its ability to self-flush, clearing the screen of blockage. A gauge is set to automatically trigger the flushing system when inflow and outflow pressure reaches a differential of 7.5 PSI.
The city has lowered its alert stage level for water conservation, dropping from its red-level Stage III stance to an intermediate Stage II.
Citing dwindling supplies at its reservoirs, on March 13 City Hall had urged residents to dial back their water usage with the Stage III announcement, jumping from a lesser Stage I. The designations were composed by the Borough Assembly last year in an attempt to organize response measures in the event of a shortage. This followed a water crisis in the summer of 2016 triggered by a production shortfall.
An icy, lengthy and dry winter this year has limited replenishment at the treatment plant's two open reservoirs, from which it draws its supply. Meanwhile, household usage and suspected line leakage has elevated demand to summertime levels, draining much of what water was available.
With temperatures pushing above freezing last month, the thaw has helped restore some of the reservoirs' lost water, Public Works director Amber Al-Haddad confirmed last week. Though ice coverage on both has kept some measure of water inaccessible, the lower reservoir's reserves have been sufficient to meet demand again.
Back to Stage II, under current restrictions the use of water for outdoor landscaping, washing vehicles or sidewalks, the filling of hot tubs and other unnecessary tasks are prohibited. Thanking the community for its support, the city reminded residents to continue to think conservatively about water use and be mindful of leaks.
Limited seafood production is expected to begin shortly, putting Wrangell's water situation in a vulnerable place heading into the new summer swing. In order to keep up on the production end of things, two temporary workers have been approved to assist with filter cleaning and plant management to avoid the problems seen in 2016.
The city is currently pursuing funding sources for a new type of water processing plant, one of many fixes identified to improve its water provision system. Using dissolved air flotation for filtration, the plant's construction is estimated at $9.1 million in all, and could take up to three years to bring online.
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