Residents in Collingwood may notice cloudy or discoloured water coming from their taps as the town conducts its annual spring hydrant flushing program. This routine maintenance is currently underway to clean out the town’s water distribution network, which spans approximately 242 kilometres of water mains.
While the appearance of the water might be concerning, officials from the Town of Collingwood Water Services Department emphasize that the water remains safe to drink. The discolouration is caused by the natural buildup of sediment and deposits in the pipes over time. If residents experience cloudy water, running a cold water tap for a short period should clear it up.
The town performs this flushing in both the spring and fall to prevent issues with water quality, including changes to taste or odour. In addition to the seasonal program, staff also flush dead-end hydrants on a regular basis throughout the year to ensure the system remains clean.
The maintenance is part of a broader effort to manage local water infrastructure. The community previously faced significant challenges in December 2025, when a major water main break resulted in a town-wide boil water advisory that lasted for several days.
To support long-term needs, the town is currently working on a $270 million expansion of the Raymond A. Barker Water Treatment Plant. The project is being completed in collaboration with the Town of New Tecumseth and is supported by a $70 million grant from the Ontario Ministry of Infrastructure. The expansion is now anticipated to be complete by 2031, with increased capacity expected by August 2029, following project delays and cost adjustments.
