Salem, OR – Starting Friday, March 28, 2025, the City of Salem will begin testing its interconnected drinking water systems with Keizer. This important process aims to ensure the functionality of the intertie, a connection that links the water supplies of both cities. The testing, which will continue through Monday, March 31, 2025, is expected to impact the water supply of approximately 200,000 residents in the Salem-Keizer area.
During the test, Keizer’s groundwater will be pumped into Salem’s water distribution system. The city expects to transfer about five million gallons of water per day, which accounts for roughly 20% of the average daily water demand for this time of year. While the intertie is tested, Salem’s primary water source, the North Santiam River, will still serve the majority of the population.
Residents, particularly those in West Salem, may notice slight changes in the water’s taste, color, or odor. This is due to the blending of Keizer’s groundwater with the water from the North Santiam River. The City of Salem assured the public that these changes are temporary and will not affect the safety or overall quality of the water.
City officials explained that this testing is part of an ongoing effort to maintain and improve the reliability of the interconnected water systems between Salem and Keizer. The intertie has been in place to provide an emergency backup supply, and this exercise is a vital step to confirm its readiness in the event of future water system disruptions.
For residents concerned about the temporary changes in water quality, the City of Salem has urged them to contact the Salem Public Works Department’s dispatch center at 503-588-6311.
The testing period is a proactive measure to ensure that the water systems of both cities remain functional and resilient, and it highlights the importance of collaboration between neighboring communities to ensure continued access to safe and clean drinking water.
