Decorah’s fall hydrant-flushing program is scheduled to begin Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, bringing temporary water-service changes to neighborhoods across the city. The Decorah Water Department said crews will work weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with the maintenance expected to take approximately two to three weeks.
Residents may notice a slight, temporary drop in water pressure while crews flush hydrants nearby. Water may also briefly appear discolored or rusty as loose sediment is cleared from the water mains.
Why the city flushes hydrants
Hydrant flushing is part of the city’s routine water-system maintenance. According to the Water Department, the work clears natural sediment from water mains, supports high water quality and verifies that fire hydrants operate properly for emergency fire protection.
The department said the water remains safe and chemically treated throughout the process. However, residents should run cold-water taps for one to two minutes until the water is clear before cooking or drinking. They should also check water color before doing laundry to help prevent clothing stains.
Tips for residents during nearby flushing
- Avoid running water softeners or washing machines while crews are flushing nearby.
- Run a cold-water tap for one to two minutes if water appears discolored.
- Check water clarity before starting laundry.
The Decorah Water Department thanked residents for their patience and cooperation during the infrastructure maintenance. Residents with questions can contact the department at (563) 382-5171 or [email protected]. Additional information is available at www.decorahia.org.