Announcements
August 13, 2020:
This morning, the Franklin County Water System (FCWS) experienced a large water main break. As a result of the break, water pressure in parts of the water system dropped to low levels. When this occurs a potential health hazard may exist in these areas of zero pressure from backflow and/or back-siphonage of water of unknown quality into the water distribution system. The FCWS has isolated the issue and normal service has resumed. As water is restored to your area, you may need to turn on several faucets throughout your home for a brief time to remove the air and any sediment from your pipes.
In order to protect the public from a potential health hazard, all citizens that have experienced water outages and/or low water pressures are under a boil advisory until further notice. Customers are advised to “boil” all water prior to use for drinking, cooking, or preparing baby food. The water should be boiled for at least one minute after reaching a rolling boil.
If you have any questions, please contact the FCWS at 706-384-3318. We appreciate your patience and understanding in this matter.
PRESS RELEASE
Georgia EPD Elevates Drought Response Levels, Franklin County Declared Level 1
Worsening drought conditions throughout most of the state have prompted a Level 1 Drought Response declaration from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). This means public water utilities in 103 counties, including Franklin, will be required to begin a public information campaign to help citizens better understand drought, its impact on water supplies and the need for water conservation.
To determine the appropriate level of drought response, EPD considers several factors including precipitation, stream flows, groundwater, reservoir levels, short-term climate predictions and soil moisture. EPD monitors and produces publicly available reports on these conditions on a monthly basis.
According to the statement from the EPD, the “drought has affected the entire state with conditions ranging from abnormally dry to extreme drought.” Furthermore, the EPD press release stated, “The current flash drought we are in is primarily agricultural, but it can also affect water supply….It came on quickly due to the intense daytime heating, lack of rainfall and sudden decrease in soil moisture we experienced in September.” As of October 18, 2019, Franklin County has been assigned a Level 1 Drought Response status.
The state’s drought response is centered on the ability of public water systems to supply adequate amounts of water. The Franklin County Water System is a blended system that utilizes sources of groundwater and surface water. At this time, we feel our system has ample ability to supply adequate water to our customers. However, it is important for us to collectively be good stewards of our water resources. During our drought response, we are encouraging customers to conserve water when possible.
Examples of ways to conserve water and be good water stewards:
• General outdoor watering is allowed only between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m.
• Regularly check for, and repair, leaks inside and outside their home.
• Don’t leave the tap running when shaving, brushing teeth, and face washing.
• Only water your landscape when necessary. Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk or street.
Please use the links for additional information:
FCWS will no longer accept credit card payments over-the-phone. Effective August 1, 2019, the Franklin County Water System will no longer process over-the-phone credit card payments. We do accept cash, checks, and
money orders. We will also accept credit card payments in person with proper ID (processing fee does apply). For your convenience, we have a 24-hour drop box at our offices.
We now offer online bill pay for our Water Utility customers. Your account ID and PIN are located on your bill and will be required to access your account. Electronic payments will be posted to your account the next business day. If your water service has been disconnected for non-payment, please contact the Water Department.
Forms and Information