BOULDER CREEK >> The San Lorenzo Valley Water District has announced that its annual water main flushing program will begin to flow in March.

According to a release from the district, the routine maintenance program, which helps maintain its water pipelines and is a compliance requirement set by the California Department of Water Resources Control Board, will occur throughout the district from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays beginning March 11 and continuing through May 23.

The once-per-year program is meant to clean out iron and manganese deposits that accumulate in the district’s extensive pipeline network. The flushing consists of cleaning the inside of the pipes by opening hydrants and releasing water at high speeds that whisk away deposits that have built up. During this process, water can flow through pipes as quickly as five feet per second, according to the release.

Consistent and periodic flushing is meant to improve water quality, maintain pipeline capacity and limit episodes of discolored water caused by the iron and manganese deposits. While iron and manganese can have an aesthetic impact, they do not pose a health threat to customers and are safe, according to the release, and are common minerals found in groundwater wells throughout the country.

The district has assured customers that water is safe to drink during the flushing process though some may experience periods of low water pressure or a brief interruption of service. The district has advised customers to try to reduce water usage during this period and refrain from doing laundry that may be impacted from the discolored water.

The complete flushing schedule is at slvwd.com and customers with questions can also call the district at 831-338-2153.

The district, established in 1941, now serves more than 7,900 metered connections primarily for communities in Boulder Creek, Brookdale, Ben Lomond, Zayante, Quail Hollow, Scotts Valley, Whispering Pines, Manana Woods and Felton.