NEWS Archive

Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors has delegated authority to declare personal property items as surplus to the needs of OWASA to the Executive Director. The Executive Director has declared certain personal property surplus and has authorized disposal by electronic auction. From March…

OWASA is excited to celebrate the fourth-annual Care to Share Day on Thursday, November 17, 2022, to raise awareness of and funds for the Care to Share bill-assistance program available for OWASA customers.

OWASA is pleased to announce that the 2023 recreation season will open at Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake on Saturday, March 25.

The EPA announced updated interim health advisory levels for four PFAS in drinking water. OWASA has been monitoring these developments.

Water and sewer utilities perform studies of their rates and fees periodically to ensure the utility is recovering the costs of providing services and doing so equitably across their customer bases. Pursuant to North Carolina law, North Carolina water and sewer utilities are required to…

OWASA met or surpassed all state and federal wastewater regulations in 2022. Learn more about this process in the wastewater report card!

Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors has delegated authority to declare personal property items as surplus.

Properly disposing of FOG and following steps to prevent frozen pipes during cold weather can help avoid some holiday surprises this year!

The Western Intake Partnership invites you to join us for a Public Open House to learn more about the Jordan Lake Water Supply Project.

The fourth and largest of OWASA’s solar arrays is officially online and producing clean energy at Cane Creek Reservoir. To celebrate the occasion, OWASA and other local officials will be hosting an event at Cane Creek Reservoir featuring past and present members of the OWASA…

OWASA’s Board of Directors met on Thursday, November 10, 2022, and considered an agenda that included an update on PFAS.

OWASA will temporarily alter its drinking water treatment process through the month of March. Water will remain safe to drink.

OWASA met or surpassed all state and federal wastewater regulations in 2022. Learn more about this process in the wastewater report card!

Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors has delegated authority to declare personal property items as surplus.

The Town Councils for Carrboro and Chapel Hill each recently voted to allocate funding to cover debt that Carrboro and Chapel Hill residents accrued on their OWASA bill while the Orange County State of Emergency was in place due to COVID-19.

For over 20 years, samples of OWASA drinking water have tested below the detectable level for lead of 3 parts per billion (ppb).

OWASA’s Board of Directors met on Thursday, November 10, 2022, and considered an agenda that included an update on PFAS.

A strategic plan prioritizing investments and priorities for the next five to six years was approved by the OWASA Board in September.

Driving across the bridge to OWASA’s Wastewater Treatment Plant on Mason Farm Road brings a different responsibility each time for Wil Lawson, the plant’s Operations Supervisor.

The OWASA Board of Directors recently honored longtime OWASA Team member Sherman Betts for his years of service to OWASA and the Carrboro-Chapel Hill-Orange County community ahead of his retirement at the end of May.

A new temporary program will provide funding assistance to eligible OWASA customers with overdue water bills.

The OWASA Board of Directors voted at the July 14, 2022, meeting to approve a new Long-Range Water Supply Plan. This plan is a critical factor in OWASA’s mission to continue providing customers with high-quality drinking water through 2070.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met October 13, 2022, considering an agenda that included the draft annual comprehensive financial report.

Valve Maintenance Crew Leader Marcus Fuller knows Carrboro-Chapel Hill’s water works inside and out. Over nearly two decades, he has helped to build, maintain and upgrade the community’s water system.

Millie Zeno-Chapman made her way to OWASA as a Water Treatment Plant Operator after serving in the Army National Guard. At OWASA, Millie knew she could translate the skills she had developed into her new career.

As one of the people on the receiving end, Customer Service Representative Miriam Crutchfield greatly enjoys helping customers.

Senior Maintenance Mechanic Rod Dail continues serving his home town of Carrboro through his work at OWASA.

Treating the community’s wastewater is a job that requires time and attention 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and OWASA’s team of Mason Farm Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) operators is responsible for making sure the plant is running effectively….

OWASA met all state and federal drinking water regulations during the 2021 calendar year. The annual water quality report card is now available in English and Spanish.

The OWASA Board of Directors voted unanimously to eliminate the Account Delinquency Fee previously paid to reconnect water service after it was disconnected due to non-payment.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually July 14, 2022, considering an agenda that included the Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met September 8, 2022, considering an agenda that included approving a new Strategic Plan.

Three new maps are aimed at supplying important updates to customers and providing answers to some frequently asked questions about water outages, Boil Water Advisories, construction projects, and the general service area.

The Partnership for Clean Water recently awarded OWASA’s Mason Farm Wastewater Treatment Plant the Partnership for Clean Water’s Directors Award.

An OWASA contractor is scheduled to begin work on the East Main Street Sewer Rehabilitation Project on Friday, February 11, 2022.

OWASA met or surpassed all state and federal wastewater regulations in 2021, as shown in the annual wastewater report card.

OWASA will be resuming Standard Collection Practices on June 1, 2022. Funding assistance is still available for customers who have bills that are past due.

Moving water from a reservoir, through a water treatment plant, and delivering it to customers takes a lot of moving parts along the way.

Taking emergency preparedness steps ahead of time can help you and your family be ready for inclement weather.

OWASA will complete its annual switch to using chlorine to disinfect drinking water and return to using chloramines at 8 a.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2021.

OWASA surplus equipment will be sold via GovDeals, an online auction service provider.

OWASA has installed solar arrays to offset some energy costs associated with providing water and wastewater services to customers.

OWASA Board of Directors holding virtual public hearings on the proposed budget and rate adjustment for FY23 at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 12, 2022. 

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on May 12, 2022, and held public hearings on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and Rate Adjustment.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, June 9, 2022, and considered an agenda that included the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and Rate Adjustment.

OWASA surplus equipment will be sold via GovDeals, an online auction service provider.

Safety has been the focus of Tyrus Johnson’s professional career, but the COVID-19 pandemic brought a new challenge for OWASA’s Safety and Risk Manager.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority will use Orange County’s declared State of Emergency as guidance for resuming standard collection practices. Under standard procedures, if a customer does not pay two consecutive bills, their service is disconnected.

Orange County received less rain than normal over 2021, but OWASA’s reservoirs remained more than 90 percent full.

Students in grade 9 to 12 in Carrboro and Chapel Hill are invited to apply for OWASA’s 2022 Youth Water Academy.

Learn more about how OWASA is celebrating Orange County’s Creek Week (March 14-20, 2022) with two special events.

After careful deliberation, the OWASA Board has determined Jordan Lake is the most viable alternative to consider during the update to the Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, February 24, considering an agenda that included an update on a new strategic plan.

The OWASA Board of Directors unanimously approved the budget and rate adjustment for Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) at a meeting on June 9, 2022.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, March 10, 2022, and considered an agenda that included discussions on the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget draft.

OWASA is pleased to announce that the 2022 recreation season will open at Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake on Saturday March 26.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, April 28, 2022, and considered an agenda that included discussions on the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget draft.

OWASA drinking water will remain safe to drink, but customers in Carrboro and Chapel Hill might notice a change in taste or odor of drinking water.

OWASA staff members will be at the Chapel Hill Public Library on April 23 to provide an update on the Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA surplus equipment will be sold via GovDeals, an online auction service provider.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, February 10, 2022, and considered an agenda that included an update on the community’s Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, January 27, 2022, and considered an agenda that included an update on the community’s Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA surplus equipment will be sold via GovDeals, an online auction service provider.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, January 13, 2022, and considered an agenda that included an update on the community’s Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, December 9, 2021, and considered an agenda that included an update on the community’s Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA surplus equipment will be sold via GovDeals, an online auction service provider.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met November 11 and considered an agenda including an update on OWASA’s Care to Share program.

OWASA’s third-annual Care to Share Day is focused on raising awareness of and funds for the community bill-assistance program.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority will be holding a public information session on Wednesday, November 17, ahead of a sewer line rehabilitation and replacement project in downtown Carrboro.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met October 28 and considered an agenda including an update of a strategic trends report.

Some fee adjustments went into effect October 1, 2021, that will primarily impact third-party developers and contractors.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, October 14, 2021, and considered an agenda that included an update on OWASA’s Strategic Plan.

The OWASA recreation season at Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake will be closing at the end of October.

The closure of Jones Ferry Road is expected to be in place between 8 p.m. Friday (Oct. 29) and 6 a.m. Saturday (Oct. 30).

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, September 9, 2021, and considered an agenda that included an update on OWASA’s Forest Management Program.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, September 9, 2021, and considered an agenda that included the annual update on OWASA’s Diversity and Inclusion Program.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, August 26, 2021, and considered an agenda that included awarding a contract for an upcoming water line replacement project.

OWASA surplus equipment will be sold via GovDeals, an online auction service provider.

OWASA’s reservoirs will be open for recreation on Labor Day, Monday, September 6, 2021, following all current rules and regulations for lake use.

Results from the survey will help inform the update of our strategic plan that will help inform OWASA’s investments and priorities over the next 5-6 years.

OWASA released an updated Manual of Specifications, Standards, and Design and. online Service Availability Request Form.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, July 8, 2021, and considered an agenda that included an update on recent diversity and inclusion work.

The annual water quality report card is an opportunity to highlight how OWASA measures up against drinking water regulations to ensure customers that the water being delivered to your home is safe to drink and meets all regulatory standards.

The OWASA Board of Directors approved the budget and rate adjustment for Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) at a meeting on June 10, 2021.

OWASA will be hosting a career fair on Thursday, June 24, 2021, aimed at recruiting to fill open Utility Mechanic I positions in the Distribution and Collection Systems Department.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, June 10, 2021, and considered an agenda that included voting on the proposed budget and rate adjustment for Fiscal Year 2022.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, May 27, 2021, and considered an agenda that included conducting public hearings on the proposed budget and rate adjustment for Fiscal Year 2022.

These recreation changes will go into effect on Friday, June 4. OWASA’s reservoirs will not be open on Memorial Day, May 31, 2021.

OWASA’s Board of Directors will hold public hearings on the proposed budget and rate adjustment for Fiscal Year 2022 at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 27, 2021.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, April 22, 2021, and considered an agenda that included draft guiding principles for the community’s Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

From May 24, 2021, through June 4, 2021, OWASA surplus equipment will be sold via GovDeals, an online auction service provider.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually and considered an agenda that included extending access to the boat launch area at University Lake.

OWASA updates 2021 lake recreation guidance to allow additional visitors and additional opportunities for visiting Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually considering an agenda that included draft Fiscal Year 2022 budget and rate adjustment projections.

OWASA will complete its annual switch to using chlorine to disinfect drinking water and return to using chloramines at 8 a.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2021.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually considering an agenda that included draft Fiscal Year 2022 budget and rate adjustment projections.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually considering an agenda that included draft Fiscal Year 2022 operating and capital equipment budgets.

OWASA will open Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake for recreation under certain guidelines on Saturday, March 27, 2021.

OWASA’s Affordability Program will focus on the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on customers in 2021.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, February 25, 2021, and considered an agenda that included new conservation easements.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority treats roughly 7.5 million gallons of the community’s wastewater every day. We’re pleased to announced we met or surpassed all State and Federal wastewater regulations.

OWASA drinking water will remain safe to drink, but customers in Carrboro and Chapel Hill might notice a change in taste or odor of drinking water.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, February 11, 2021, and considered an agenda that included the Affordability Program update.

To make sure any stale and potentially unhealthy water in your building’s system is removed, we are asking you to follow these steps as you prepare to reopen your property to employees and customers.

The Orange County Board of Commissioners voted to award OWASA $75,000 toward a solar array at Cane Creek Reservoir.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, January 28, 2021, and considered an agenda including the annual lakes recreation report.

OWASA will take the Manning Drive Elevated Water Tank out of service for routine maintenance scheduled to begin Monday, February 1, 2021. No customer impacts are expected as part of this preventative maintenance project.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, January 14, 2021, and considered an agenda that included an update on OWASA’s Diversity & Inclusion program.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, December 10, 2020, and considered an agenda that included OWASA’s Water Shortage Response Plan.

OWASA is continuing to build on a decade’s worth of energy management work that resulted in avoiding over $565,000 in electricity and natural gas costs just in the last fiscal year.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority is excited to announce that Mary Darr has been selected as the next General Manager of Operations following a nationwide search.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors has delegated authority to declare personal property items as surplus to the needs of OWASA to the Executive Director. The Executive Director has declared certain personal property surplus and has authorized disposal by electronic auction. From December…

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, November 12, 2020, and considered an agenda that included OWASA’s Energy Management Plan and Long-Range Water Supply Plan: Drought Response Operating Protocol.

November 19, 2020, will mark OWASA’s second annual Care to Share Day, raising awareness and funds for the Care to Share bill-assistance program.

OWASA will unveil its first solar project this November on the sunny, gently sloping field next to the biosolids mixing tanks on Berry Andrews Road.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, October 22, 2020, and considered an agenda that included an update on the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, October 8, 2020, and considered an agenda that included a review of strategic trends and utility planning issues.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, September 24, 2020, and considered an agenda that included an update on OWASA’s Forest Management Program, an update on a new water main prioritization model, and the process for updating OWASA’s strategic plan.

A key piece of the ongoing maintenance of the community’s water and wastewater infrastructure is having your water backflow device checked every year.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, September 10, 2020, and considered an agenda that included adding Juneteenth as a Paid holiday for employees, reviewing HR Policy guidelines regarding the Referral Fee Program, and receiving an update on OWASA’s Diversity and Inclusion Program.

OWASA has been awarded the 15-year Director’s Award by the Partnership for Safe Water for OWASA’s Jones Ferry Road Water Treatment Plant.

Students from grades 9 to 12 are invited to apply for OWASA’s Youth Water Academy, which will run in October and November 2020.

OWASA’s reservoirs will not be open for recreation on Labor Day 2020. OWASA will be closing the recreation season the weekend of October 30-November 1.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, August 27, 2020, and considered an agenda that included an update on OWASA’s response to COVID-19, the preliminary financial report for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2020, and the semi-annual Capital Improvements Program (CIP) report.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority treats roughly 7.5 million gallons of the community’s wastewater every day. We’re pleased to announced we met or surpassed all State and Federal wastewater regulations.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, August 13, 2020, and considered an agenda that included an update on OWASA’s response to COVID-19, an update on OWASA resuming standard collection practices, and discussion on the Long-Range Water Supply Plan.

OWASA is looking for additional Team Members across the Distribution & Collection Department and at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

On Monday, July 27, eastbound traffic on West Cameron Avenue in front of the Carolina Inn will be detoured via Pittsboro Street and McCauley Street. This closure is needed to allow for critical water main repairs.

OWASA is advertising an auction of surplus Wastewater Treatment Plant Laboratory equipment.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, July 9, 2020. The Board of Directors is currently meeting virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During Ed Kerwin’s tenure, OWASA made major investments in the community’s water and wastewater infrastructure, as well as in the employees who bring expertise to their positions every day.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, June 25, 2020, and considered an agenda that included a resolution appointing a new Executive Director, an update on the response to COVID-19, and an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2020 budget.

The Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors has selected Todd Taylor to serve as OWASA’s next Executive Director.

OWASA is pleased to release the annual water quality report card for 2019 and announce that all State and Federal regulations were met or exceeded.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, June 11, 2020, and considered an agenda that included approval of the Fiscal Year 2021 budget, an update on the response to COVID-19, a resolution affirming OWASA’s Diversity and Inclusion values, and election of Board officer positions.

OWASA is angered and saddened at the unjust deaths of George Floyd and other African Americans in tragic circumstances and the broader inequities that underlie our society.

The OWASA Board of Directors approved a budget for Fiscal Year 2021 at a meeting on June 11. In acknowledgment of the significant financial impact of the COVID-19 crisis on our community, the approved budget will not require a rate increase.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, May 28, 2020, and considered an agenda that included updates on the response to COVID-19, an update on the relaunch of OWASA’s website, and public hearings on the preliminary annual operating and capital improvements budget and proposed…

The Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors will be holding a public hearing on the proposed budget on Thursday, May 28, at 7 p.m.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority will open Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake for recreation on a limited basis beginning on Friday, May 29, 2020.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, May 14, 2020, and considered an agenda that included updates on the response to COVID-19, draft budget and rate information for Fiscal Year 2021, and the onboarding program for OWASA’s next Executive Director.

OWASA’s Board of Directors will hold a virtual public hearing on May 28 at 7 p.m. regarding the proposed budget and rate adjustment for Fiscal Year 2021.

Orange Water and Sewer Authority is beginning to phase back in some normal operations that were temporarily suspended in mid-March due to the spread of COVID-19. 

The #GivingTuesdayNow campaign in our area began with a call to donate to the Care to Share water bill assistance program of the Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA).

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, April 23, to consider an agenda that included updates on the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and OWASA’s Forest Management plan, among other items.

OWASA is working to maintain its level of service across Carrboro and Chapel Hill while maintaining practices that prioritize the health and safety of the public and OWASA employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, April 9, to consider an agenda that included updates on the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing budgeting process.

OWASA will complete its annual switch to using chlorine to disinfect drinking water on March 31 and return to using chloramines at midnight on April 1. However, customers may notice continued chlorine taste and odor in early to mid-April because some water treated with chlorine…

The Orange County Health Department Board of Health on March 26, 2020, unanimously approved a recommendation that Orange Water and Sewer Authority continue fluoridating the drinking water across the service area (generally the Carrboro and Chapel Hill communities) at current levels. The recommendation came after…

OWASA is suspending its practice of mailing and handing out paper notices to customers in an effort to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by limiting human-to-human interaction.

Based on the current evidence from the WHO, CDC, and EPA, the risk to drinking water supplies becoming contaminated by the virus remains low.

OWASA will put additional measures in place beginning Monday, March 16, to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and protect drinking water quality in our service area.

OWASA is celebrating Fix a Leak Week and has tools to help track your water use remotely.

OWASA has temporarily suspended all disconnects for non-payment of bills in response to the spread of COVID-19.

Welcome to the newly redesigned website for Orange Water and Sewer Authority. The new website carries over some features from older versions but with a fresh, new look and in a way that is aimed at being easier to understand.

In support of our commitment to provide high-quality drinking water, OWASA will temporarily alter its drinking water treatment process throughout the month of March. Water will remain safe to drink during this time, but customers might notice a change in taste or odor of drinking water.

OWASA has partnered with Eagle Solar and Light to install two small, ground-mount solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to supply our facilities with renewable energy. We will be holding on-site, drop-in sessions at each site.

Customers throughout Chapel Hill and Carrboro can take control of their water usage and save some money along the way with the help of OWASA’s Agua Vista program. “When you use less, you pay less,” OWASA Sustainability Manger Mary Tiger summarized during an appearance on the Wonderful Water segment on WCHL.

Flushing the wrong things down your drain can cause harm to the sewer system, require costly fixes or even harm water quality locally. OWASA customers are encouraged to help protect the integrity of our local water and wastewater infrastructure by saying yes to the three Ps: Pee, poo, and toilet paper.

Another group of water-conscious local teens is ready to take their newly acquired water knowledge to the Chapel Hill-Carrboro community after completing OWASA’s Youth Water Academy.

OWASA’s new advanced meters enable daily monitoring of water consumption, faster leak detection, and greater water conservation by community members. OWASA’s Board of Directors has approved a series of policies to support the operation of these advanced meters, and to empower customers to take advantage of the…

October 10 is Imagine a Day Without Water. On this day, the US Water Alliance asks people to imagine waking up and not being able to take a shower, drink coffee, or make a meal. On this day, the Alliance asks people to remember the value…

Christian Arvizu-Garcia (L) and Harrison Ray (R) were the first of many OWASA employees to volunteer to support hurricane recovery. They’ve prepped OWASA’s Vac-Truck so it’s ready to deploy. OWASA received an alert yesterday from NCWaterWARN (a network of utilities that supports each other in times of disaster) that a…

Strong winds and heavy rain are anticipated to reach Carrboro and Chapel Hill as Hurricane Florence makes its way closer to North Carolina this week. Depending on the severity of the hurricane, it is possible that water and wastewater services may be disrupted. Don’t be…

OWASA is receiving reports that customers have received water testing kits in the mail. These kits are from a private company, and its mailers are not affiliated with OWASA. In light of the inquiries, OWASA reassures customers that it continues to surpass all Federal and…

OWASA is pleased to welcome Jody Eimers and Bruce Boehm to its Board, both of whom recently took the oath of office. Mrs. Eimers, Scientist Emeritus at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in the Office of International Programs, is an Orange County appointee. She brings…

2% rate increase to support continued delivery of high quality water and infrastructure improvements; fiscal year 2019 budget adopted On June 14th, OWASA’s Board of Directors adopted the budget for July 2018 through June 2019. It includes a 2% increase in monthly water and sewer (wastewater) rates starting…

Employees will be on call for water and sewer emergencies OWASA’s administrative offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Monday, May 28, 2018, for the Memorial Day holiday. OWASA’s lakes will be open for recreation on Monday from 6:30 AM to 6…

May 2, 2018 – Yesterday, OWASA refunded $20 million of variable rate revenue bonds with fixed rate bonds to take advantage of current market conditions and lock-in favorable interest rates for the duration of the loan repayment. OWASA issued the original variable rate bonds in…

April 27, 2018 – All citizens are cordially invited to comment in the OWASA Board’s public hearings on the proposed Fiscal Year 2019 (July 2018 – June 2019) budget, rates, and capital program on Thursday, May 24th at 7pm in the Chapel Hill Town Hall. OWASA…

OWASA’s Agua Vista Program Will Enhance Water Service for the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Community OWASA customers are beginning to receive notification of upcoming meter upgrades as part of OWASA’s Agua Vista Metering Initiative. OWASA expects to upgrade about 1,500-1,800 meters per month and to finish upgrading…

In our continuing effort to provide affordable and high-value services to our current and future customers and in response to a new law passed by the North Carolina General Assembly, OWASA has recalculated its system development fees. OWASA charges new development, such as new residences…

Starting in March, OWASA will temporarily use chlorine instead of chloramines to disinfect our drinking water. This change is important to maintain the safety of our drinking water, but may result in different tastes, odors, and/or coloration. Water disinfected with chlorine is safe to drink….

On Monday December 11, 2017, the OWASA Manning Drive Elevated Drinking Water Tank on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will be taken out of service for regular maintenance and painting. The tank will be out of service for several…

OWASA said Wednesday that several customers have contacted OWASA after receiving water testing kits in the mail from a private company. The private company and its mailers are not affiliated with OWASA. In light of the inquiries, OWASA reassures customers that it continues to surpass…

Store enough bottled water to have one gallon per person per day for at least three days, as recommended by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Federal Emergency Management Agency. Store bottled water for use by pets if you have them. Bottled…

John N. Morris and Raymond DuBose took the oath of office as OWASA Board Members on Wednesday, July 5th. On May 22nd, the Chapel Hill Town Council reappointed Ruchir Vora to a second three-year term on the OWASA Board. Raymond DuBose Appointed by the Orange…

OWASA said Thursday that its drinking water continues to be safe, and the utility has taken additional actions to resolve taste and odor in the water. The taste and odor result from algae in the Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake. OWASA’s treatment process removes…

OWASA released a new video which explains how wastewater is collected, treated and recycled as a resource.  The five and a half minute video is on OWASA’s website, www.owasa.org. OWASA seeks opportunities to present the video and discuss wastewater management or other OWASA-related topics. Groups which…

The OWASA Board of Directors recently adopted the utility’s first energy management plan. The plan supports OWASA’s commitment to comprehensively reduce its use of energy and increase use of renewable energy sources and specifically identifies strategies and next steps to: Reduce use of purchased electricity…

OWASA continued to meet or surpass all Federal and State standards for drinking water quality in 2016. OWASA recently mailed its annual water quality report card, for calendar year 2016, to all accountholders. The report is also available on request to OWASA at 919-968-4421 or info@owasa.org or…

The American Red Cross and OWASA invite you to experience the joy of giving by donating blood at OWASA on Tuesday, April 25th. The blood drive from 10 AM to 2:30 PM will be in the Community Room on the lower floor of the Administration…

OWASA is beginning the annual mowing, clearing and inspection of its sanitary sewer easements. This work, which includes trimming trees and shrubs where needed, is intended to: help prevent roots from entering cracks in sewers. When roots get into a sewer to get the water…

In March, OWASA will use chlorine instead of chloramines to disinfect our drinking water. Chloramines are a compound of chlorine and ammonia which OWASA has used since 2002 for disinfection in months other than March. Disinfection with chloramines has improved the overall quality of OWASA’s…

University Lake and the Cane Creek Reservoir will reopen for recreation on Saturday, March 25, 2017. Basic fees will be waived in honor of Lightning Brown Day. On Saturday, March 25th, University Lake and the Cane Creek Reservoir will reopen for boating, fishing, picnicking and…

Timeline of Actions Taken by OWASA and the Orange County Health Department in Regards to the February 2017 Water Emergency On February 2, 2017, OWASA’s water supply was disrupted by an over-feed of fluoride at its water treatment plant on the west side of Carrboro;…

OWASA’s administrative offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Monday, January 16th for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. When OWASA’s offices are closed, personnel are on call to respond to service interruptions, leaks in OWASA pipes, wastewater overflows, etc. Customers are…

Our offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Thursday and Friday, November 24th and 25th, for the Thanksgiving holiday. The Cane Creek Reservoir will also be closed Wednesday. Birdwatching there on Wednesdays from 7 to 11 AM will resume on December 1st and will…

We invite you to meet with OWASA staff on Wednesday, November 16th regarding proposed changes in our Ordinance for the Control of Backflow and Cross-connections. The meeting will begin at 6 PM and it will be in the Community Room on the lower floor of our…

Due to maintenance, OWASA’s telephone landlines will be out of service from 5 PM to about 7 PM on Wednesday, November 9th. To report a water and sewer emergency to OWASA during these times, please call 919-369-1460 or, alternatively, 919-369-1545. (These are mobile phone numbers.) Water and…

The 2016 lake recreation season will end at the Cane Creek Reservoir on Saturday, November 12, and the season will end at University Lake on Sunday, November 13. The current lake recreation days and hours are: University Lake:           Friday, Saturday…

OWASA continued its water, sewer and reclaimed water services without interruption this weekend during Hurricane Matthew, and no facility damage has been found so far. From Friday to Sunday, OWASA recorded 5.45 inches of rain at the Jones Ferry Road Water Treatment Plant in Carrboro…

On Thursday night, October 27th, the OWASA Board of Directors will receive comments on a proposal to change the water rate for multi-family master-metered (MFMM) accounts such as apartment complexes. The Board will meet at 7 PM in the Chapel Hill Town Hall, 405 Martin…

OWASA continued its water, sewer and reclaimed water services without interruption this weekend during Hurricane Matthew, and no facility damage has been found so far. From Friday to Sunday, OWASA recorded 5.45 inches of rain at the Jones Ferry Road Water Treatment Plant in Carrboro…

Residents and businesses in the area including East Franklin, East Rosemary, South Columbia, Henderson and Raleigh Streets may notice discolored water today and Tuesday due to maintenance work by OWASA. To clear up the discoloration, customers are asked to run cold water for 5 to…

On Thursday night, August 25th, the OWASA Board of Directors approved the use of OWASA land for the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST). “We are delighted to partner with the community and provide access to the natural beauty that lies hidden and protected near Cane Creek Reservoir,…

OWASA responded on Wednesday, September 14th to a spill of untreated wastewater from a sewer on Eastowne Drive near its western intersection with Providence Road. OWASA estimates that the overflow totaled about 2,300 gallons. The OWASA crew flushed the spill area with water. The overflow…

On Wednesday, September 7th and Thursday, September 8th, the contractor working for OWASA will work from 7 AM to 5 PM. East Rosemary Street will be closed to through traffic between Henderson and Hillsborough Streets during the contractor’s work hours, and drivers are encouraged to use…

OWASA’s offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Monday for Labor Day but OWASA’s lakes will be open for recreation on Monday, September 5, 2016, from 6:30 AM to 6 PM. The lakes will also be open under the normal schedule before…

The American Red Cross invites you to give the gift of life by donating blood at OWASA on Wednesday, August 24th. The blood drive from 10 AM to 2:30 PM will be in the Community Room on the lower floor of the Administration Building, 400…

OWASA’s offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Monday for Independence Day but OWASA’s lakes will be open for recreation on Monday, July 4, 2016, from 6:30 AM to 6 PM. The lakes will also be open under the normal schedule before…

The American Red Cross invites you to give the gift of life by donating blood at OWASA on Thursday, June 23rd. The blood drive will be held from 10 AM to 2:30 PM in the Community Room on the lower floor of the Administration Building,…

A contractor working for OWASA started work on Tuesday night, June 7th on a project to replace water pipes in part of East Rosemary, Hillsborough and Henderson Streets. The purpose of the project is to maintain reliable water service including water for fire protection when needed. The…

OWASA’s offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Monday, May 30th, for the Memorial Day holiday but OWASA’s lakes will be open for recreation on Monday, May 23, 2016, from 6:30 AM to 6 PM. The lakes will also be open under…

Lloyd Grading and Utilities is working to repair a leaking water pipe on East Rosemary Street near Spring Lane, and the eastbound lane of Rosemary is closed at the work area.    The water  leak is about 60 feet west of where the contractor repaired a broken water pipe on April 12th.    The water line repair will probably take several hours.    For safety…

At about 7:45 PM Tuesday, an OWASA crew completed the repair of a water line on East Rosemary Street east of Henderson Street and restored service to customers in the area. Through traffic will resume later tonight (Tuesday) on a temporary surface. OWASA understands that…

In early April, OWASA will begin the annual mowing, clearing and inspection of its sanitary sewer easements. This work, which includes trimming trees and shrubs where needed, is intended to: help prevent roots from entering cracks in sewers. When roots get into a sewer to…

On March 24th, the OWASA Board of Directors adopted a resolution authorizing staff to proceed with the procurement process and implementation planning for an AMI system. To read the resolution, please click here or go to the AMI webpage via the link on OWASA’s homepage,www.owasa.org. After receiving…

Our offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Friday, March 25, for the Good Friday holiday. OWASA’s lakes will also be closed. However, the lake recreation season will begin on Saturday, March 26th. Contacting OWASA for assistance when offices are closed When…

A contractor hired by OWASA is renovating OWASA’s water tank at Hilltop Lane near the west end of McCauley Street in Chapel Hill. “This work is part of our ongoing program to take good care of the water system facilities on which our community depends,” said…

Due to work on the water system, the outer northbound lane, the center turn lane and the inner southbound lane of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard will be closed on Wednesday from 9 AM to 4 PM in an area south of Hillsborough Street and…

Our offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Monday, January 18 for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Contacting OWASA for assistance when offices are closed When OWASA’s offices are closed, personnel are on call to respond to service interruptions, leaks in…

OWASA and the American Red Cross invite you to experience the happiness of giving by donating blood. The next blood drive at OWASA will be on December 29th from 10 AM to 2:30 PM in the Community Room on the lower floor of the Administration Building,…

OWASA’s offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, December 23-25, for the Christmas holiday and on Friday, January 1 for New Year’s. Birdwatching will resume on Wednesday, December 30 The Cane Creek Reservoir will also be closed. Birdwatching on…

Our offices are closed for the Thanksgiving holidays. Contacting OWASA for assistance when offices are closed When our offices are closed, personnel are on call to respond to service interruptions, leaks in OWASA pipes, wastewater overflows, etc. Customers are welcome to call us at 919-968-4421 at any…

Dear OWASA Customer: On behalf of the OWASA Board of Directors and staff, please participate in our 2015 Customer Survey by: clicking here for the on-line survey. [Survey closed on December 15, 2015.] contacting us at info@owasa.org or 919-537-4267 to receive an electronic or paper copy of the survey to return to…

Barbara Middleton-Foushee began serving on the OWASA Board on September 28, 2015 as an appointee of Orange County. A resident of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area since 1991, Mrs. Foushee is a Senior Technologist with the Laboratory Corporation of America. She serves as the Secretary of…

The 2015 lake recreation season will end at the Cane Creek Reservoir on Saturday, November 7, and the season will end at University Lake on Sunday, November 8. The current lake recreation days and hours are: University Lake            Friday, Saturday, Sunday   6:30 AM – 5 PM…

OWASA and the American Red Cross invite you to celebrate Halloween by giving blood! Ghouls, goblins and others with human blood are invited to the blood drive at OWASA on Thursday, October 29th, from 11 AM to 3:30 PM. The drive will be in the…

The Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake are closed to recreation due to expected flooding and high wind in the next several days. OWASA said Thursday that closing the lakes is necessary because the lakes will likely be unsafe for boating and fishing and because…

OWASA’s offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Monday, September 7, 2015, for the Labor Day holiday. University Lake and the Cane Creek Reservoir will be open for recreation from 6:30 AM to 6 PM on Labor Day and with the normal…

A contractor working for OWASA plans to close part of the center turn lane on East Rosemary Street from 8 PM tonight (Tuesday, May 26) to 6 AM Wednesday, May 27 as shown on the map below. This news release is an update of information…

On Monday, May 11, between 9 AM and 4 PM, short sections of travel lanes on Smith Level Road and Booth Road will be closed due to sewer renewal work by an OWASA contractor. The work schedule is subject to change due to weather and…

A contractor working for OWASA plans to repair a sewer on West Main Street between James and Simpson Streets from Monday, April 20 through Friday, April 24 from 9 AM to 4 PM. The work schedule is subject to change due to weather and other…

Raleigh Road east of Country Club Road (Monday and Tuesday) On Monday, April 27, a contractor working for OWASA will close the outer westbound lane of Raleigh Road between 9 AM and 4 PM to reline a sanitary sewer. On Tuesday, April 28, the contractor…

Donors are needed in the blood drive at OWASA on Thursday, April 23 from 10 AM to 2:30 PM. The drive will be in the Community Room on the lower floor of OWASA’s Administration Building, 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro. For a map showing OWASA’s…

OWASA has resumed the use of a compound of chlorine and ammonia (“chloramines”) to disinfect drinking water. With the use of chloramines, there should be minimal or no chlorine taste and odor noticeable in OWASA’s water. OWASA uses only chlorine for disinfection in March each…

On Thursday and Friday, April 9 and 10, one of the two northbound lanes of Smith Level Road will be closed due a sewer repair by an OWASA contractor. Two-way traffic will be maintained on Smith Level. Flaggers will direct traffic in the repair area….

OWASA’s offices at 400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro, will close on Friday, April 3, for the Good Friday holiday. OWASA’s lakes will also close for the holiday as in the past, but University Lake will be open Saturday and Sunday from 6:30 AM to 6…

OWASA has repaired a water line damaged Wednesday on the south side of Elliott Road near the SECU building, and water service is restored in the area. Elliott Road is open to through traffic. Customers may notice discoloration or air bubbles in water after completion…

On Monday, a contractor working for OWASA will close the center turn lane in part of East Rosemary Street between North Columbia Street and Henderson Street in order to restore asphalt where OWASA recently inspected a sewer. The timing of the work is subject to…

On Saturday, March 21, 2015, University Lake and the Cane Creek Reservoir will reopen for boating, fishing, picnicking and other recreation. OWASA has designated March 21 as Lightning Brown Day in honor of the late Mr. Brown, a community activist and member of the OWASA…

OWASA and the American Red Cross invite you to give the gift of life by donating blood. The next blood drive at OWASA will be on February 23rd from 10 AM to 2:30 PM in the Community Room on the lower floor of the Administration Building,…

Due to weather and travel conditions, our offices will open at noon on Tuesday, February 17. Customers can call us at any time at 919-968-4421 to report a service interruption, leak in an OWASA water pipe or wastewater overflow. Customers with internet access may check account…

Due to the forecast of a major winter storm, OWASA will close its offices on Friday, January 22, 2016. However, OWASA’s Jones Ferry Road Water Treatment Plant and Mason Farm Wastewater Treatment Plant will be fully staffed, and personnel will be on duty to respond…