The City of Salem will be testing the Salem-Keizer drinking water intertie beginning Friday, March 28, 2025 through Monday, March 31, 2025. The intertie is a water pipe connection between Salem’s and Keizer’s drinking water systems. The intertie can be used if needed to supplement Salem’s water supply.
As part of the testing, Keizer drinking water will be pumped into Salem’s drinking water distribution system. The testing will ensure that the intertie is functioning properly and confirm the amount of water that can be pumped from Keizer to Salem’s water distribution system. The City anticipates that around five million gallons per day will be pumped into the distribution system, approximately 20 percent of the average day demand during this time of year.
Salem water customers, primarily in the West Salem area, could notice a slight change in water quality during this testing. This is because the City of Keizer uses groundwater for drinking water while the City of Salem’s primary drinking water source is the North Santiam River. Blending the two water sources may cause a minor change to the taste, odor or color of the water, but will not have an impact on the safety or quality of the water. Customers who have questions can call Salem Public Works Dispatch at 503-588-6311.
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