Chlorine Supply Shortage Information

June 2021 Update

A temporary supply shortage of chlorine, used for treating drinking water and wastewater, is affecting communities throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Corvallis.

The Corvallis water supply is safe and secure, but the shortage is affecting communities throughout Oregon and Washington. The drinking water coming out of your tap remains safe to drink and use.

What caused the shortage?

A major chlorine production facility that serves the entire West Coast suffered an equipment failure in June 2021. Repairs are underway and the facility is expected to return to service by the end of June. Corvallis Public Works officials are in communication with state and federal officials about the current supply of chlorine available in the Pacific Northwest, as well as options to acquire more treatment chemicals.

What is the City of Corvallis doing in response?

The City has already implemented a number of conservation measures, including halting planned hydrant flushing, minimizing City water use for irrigation and recreation, and implementing measures to extend chlorine supply at all treatment plants.

If the chlorine supply situation persists, the City may be required to take additional steps as outlined in its Water Supply Emergency Curtailment Plan.

What can I do to help?

Community members can do their part to help avoid further impacts by implementing voluntary, common-sense water conservation measures, including:

• Use water only for drinking, cooking and bathing
• Limit outdoor use such as filling pools, washing cars or watering lawns
• Identify and fix leaky faucets, pipes, and fixtures

Additional water conservation tips are available on the City website.

How long will this last?

Once the chlorine manufacturing process resumes, deliveries will resume throughout the state and the Pacific Northwest. There may be a lag time as manufacturing catches up with demand, which means we may need to take action to conserve water beyond the next couple of weeks.

How can I stay informed?

News updates will be posted to the City website if additional guidance or instructions are needed. The same information will be posted to the City's social media pages - Facebook, Nextdoor, and Twitter.

Who can I contact with questions?

If you have questions or concerns, contact the Interim Public Works Director Greg Gescher at 541-766-6731 or greg.gescher@corvallisoregon.gov.