HYDRANT FLUSHING
The City of Ellsworth will be flushing out the water hydrants on Wednesday, May 25th, 2022. Expect cloudy or discolored water. We recommend NOT running HOT water until your COLD water starts to run clear.
We recommend that you DO NOT WASH A LOAD OF WHITE CLOTHES UNTIL YOU HAVE DONE A LOAD OF DARKS FIRST! 
Please be cautious of the city employee working in the streets and observe traffic diversions.
FACT: Hydrant Flushing is the quick release of water from fire hydrants. The purpose of flushing the water lines is to clear the water mains of small amounts of sediment like iron or manganese that settles in water mains over time. By flushing the hydrants, we are helping to maintain water clarity and quality in the distribution pipes. We are also testing the hydrants to make sure adequate flow and pressure is available. This controlled procedure is vital to the general maintenance of the City’s water distribution system. The hydrants are also checked to see that they are in working order for fire protection. Residents may temporarily notice low water pressure while the mains are being flushed.
FACT: The discoloration of water during hydrant flushing is caused by iron and mineral deposits from inside the water mains getting stirred up. The source of the iron naturally occurs from ground water wells and deposits in the ductile iron pipe that make up the underground water system. During flushing your household water may appear rust-colored but the water is safe to use and consume, however it may stain laundry. If you happen to wash whites and they look yellow, you can get iron out from your local hardware stores. Also, we understand that it may be an inconvenience to have discolored water during flushing. However, if we did not flush the outcome would result in rust-colored water always, possible hydrant failure, lower water pressure and perhaps many other costly problems.
FACT: There are ways to minimize water discoloration during hydrant flushing operations. If possible, limit your water use. Wait until flushing has subsided in your area, then run the cold water tap until the water runs clear. If you have a water softener and are experiencing discolored water, place the unit into regeneration or cleaning mode after hydrant flushing is completed. When flushing, it can take as little as 2 minutes for the water to run clear or as long as 30 minutes, depending on the hydrant!
FACT: The City of Ellsworth is required by the Minnesota Department of Health Environmental Health Division – Safe Drinking Water, to test the water in the system at various times throughout the year according to mandated parameters. The results of these tests are outlined in the annual Water Quality Report. (The report is sometimes called the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR).)
The City of Ellsworth has registered with the State of MN, for those who qualify, for the Minnesota Water Assistance Program.The State of Minnesota received $14.67 million in federal funds authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act to assist Minnesota residents with past due or current water and wastewater usage charges, fees, and deposits in response to hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Federal requirements mandate that residential customers that are currently disconnected from water or wastewater services are prioritized first, followed by residents with a pending water or wastewater disconnection and those with past due water or wastewater bills.
In Nobles County, the city will be working with the Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council. Please click on the links below for instructions and application. If you are eligible, Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council grant money will be sent to the City of Ellsworth for payment of your water/wastewater bill.
2021-2022 Energy Assistance Application - English
2021-2022 ENERGY ASSISTANCE RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES & INSTRUCTIONS
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We did it!
Our small community has been awarded funding through a bonding bill that was recently signed into law by Governor Walz in the 5th Legislative session. This is extremely exciting for our community! This project is to build a large community center and fitness room. The large community room will have access to the kitchen that is included in the new City Hall building. Class reunions, wedding receptions, birthday parties, holiday bazaar, and large family reunions are just a few events that would be able to be hosted in Ellsworth.
Due to the Coronavirus, we have not been able to hold any fundraising events. However, we are still able to accept your generous contribution through the Capital Campaign Fundraising. *** PLEASE NOTE *** – All contribution amounts will be kept confidential. All contributions are tax deductible through a partnership with the Lismore Area Community Foundation and the Southwest Initiative Foundation. Any gift, large or small, is appreciated.
This is the time of year to give. Will you consider making a financial contribution or pledge this holiday season?
Please consider giving to the Capital Campaign fundraising effort to go toward the new Community Center. Contributions and/or pledges may be sent to:
Southwest Initiative Foundation
C/O DeNoble, Austin & Company PC
121 S. Story Street
Rock Rapids, Iowa 51246
To those who have already given, THANK YOU. Your gift is very much appreciated!
Yes, we did it! Now we need your support to make it a dream come true for the City of Ellsworth!
Thanks for your time and support of this project.
The Building Committee & Capital Campaign Committee
Click on the link below for the Pledge Sheet.
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN PLEDGE SHEET
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