Check your pipes: Higher water demand strains Ketchikan’s South Tongass water system

Carlanna Lake Dam is seen on a winter morning. A popular hiking trail starts at the dam. (KRBD file photo by Leila Kheiry)

Ketchikan borough officials are asking South Tongass residents to check their pipes for leaks as cold temperatures continue across the state. That’s as the area’s water treatment plant is operating near its maximum capacity.

Borough officials blame the issue on broken pipes and dripping faucets.

The borough is encouraging residents to ensure that their heat tape is working and that pipes aren’t leaking. Any running water, especially in crawl spaces or yards, should be reported to the public works department at 907-228-6733, the borough said.