Fort Leonard Wood

Fort Leonard Wood water system serves the military installation and surrounding communities with essential water services. The utility maintains rigorous testing protocols to ensure safety standards are met for all residents.

1. Where does Fort Leonard Wood's water come from?

   Fort Leonard Wood oversees water delivery for the installation and surrounding areas. On average, the facility consumes approximately 6 million gallons daily. Only about three percent is used for tap water consumption. The Water Department currently serves over 6,000 customers through an extensive network of water mains and hundreds of fire hydrants. The utility pumps water from naturally filtered underground aquifers through multiple wells at depths of 1,000 to 1,200 feet. After necessary treatment, water is distributed throughout the system.

2. How healthy is Fort Leonard Wood's water?

   Fort Leonard Wood has consistently met all required federal and state water quality standards. The aquifers supplying the water provide excellent natural filtration. The utility invests significantly in proactive improvements to maintain the highest quality water supply. Recent water quality reports are available upon request.

3. What is unidirectional water main flushing and how does it affect residents?

   The utility has implemented a unidirectional water main flushing program that involves closing specific valves to create one-way flow, then opening hydrants sequentially. This increases water velocity for more effective cleaning of pipes. Unlike traditional flushing methods, this technique creates sufficient pressure to dislodge stubborn deposits. Flushing typically occurs during daytime hours with advance notification in affected neighborhoods.

4. What should I do if sewage backs up into my home?

   Sewage backups can occur when blockages prevent normal flow through drainage systems. If you experience a backup, immediately contact Emergency Services at 410-822-6110. If a sewer cleanout is accessible, crews can determine whether the blockage is in your private line or the public system. Discontinue water usage until the issue is resolved.

5. What causes sewer backups?

   Backups typically result from inappropriate items entering sewer lines, including kitchen grease, disposable diapers, and sanitary products. Tree roots seeking moisture can infiltrate pipes through cracks. In some cases, vandalism or illegal connections like sump pumps or roof drains overwhelm the system designed for a predetermined capacity.