Depending on their exact location, Warren County residents saw from 5 to 7 inches of rain over the past week and that rain has created much additional labor, material costs, and efforts at McMinnville Water Treatment Plant.

Ricky Morton, water plant manager at 200 Bell Street, said this amount of rain can triple the work load.  Morton stated, “On a normal day and when the Barron Fork is clear, there are a couple of jar tests a day to make sure everything is where it needs to be. Today, we are constantly checking alkalinity to make sure it’s in line. We have to make sure that when people go to their faucets, it’s clear.”

Wastewater is also negatively affected by large amounts of rain as it can infiltrate and overload the system. This escalates the cost of the treatment process due to the increased amount of chemicals required. 

Morton spoke highly of his staff.

“The city of McMinnville won the Best Tasting Water Contest for our region.  We have certified operators with all city operators being Level 4, which is the highest level that you can attain. All of the operators for the county are Levels 3 and 4 as well. We are blessed to have them.  So, hats off to them.”