For immediate release: July 7, 2009 (09-111)

Contacts:
Carolyn Cox, Office of Drinking Water 360-236-3162
Gordon MacCracken, Communications Office 360-236-4072

OLYMPIA ¾ The Sunwood Water System in southern Pierce County had a major water outage today. Water service has been restored, but the 198 residents served by the small system are being asked to boil their water because contaminants can enter lines when water pressure drops.

The system’s manager, Iliad Inc., found four irrigation sprinkler leaks. The leaks, along with heavy water use by residents, completely drained the system’s 80,000-gallon storage tank, an Iliad spokesperson said. The advisory applies only to this water system, which serves 100 homes between Eatonville and Graham.

The water will be thoroughly tested to ensure that it is safe to drink. Iliad also is issuing a conservation notice, restricting lawn watering and other outdoor uses.

Customers who have questions can call 206-282-4200.

###