Boil water order remains in effect for Chester Julia O’Keefe — WWLP

One town in western Hampden County is still under a boil water notice two months after it was first issued.

CHESTER, Mass. (WWLP) – One town in western Hampden County is still under a boil water notice two months after it was first issued.

The Chester Water Department issued the initial boil water order following a review of water system data back in July, and two months later, there has been little to no improvement. Last week, Chester town officials and water treatment plant operators met with a DEP Environment Analyst to discuss what measures could be taken to ensure safe, clean water.

“We would like to drain Austin Brook Reservoir for inspection and assessment of what will be required to return the Reservoir to full operation as a water source option,” said the Chester Water Department.

The town also added that the water is getting clearer, and they are hopeful the DEP will allow them to conduct the required bacteria sampling next week, leading to lifting the boil water order.

Water that is not adequately treated can carry disease-causing viruses, bacteria, and parasites. The town stresses residents continue consuming town-provided bottled water and boil any water they receive from their tap before drinking, making ice, preparing food, or washing dishes.

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