Murky Water in Juanita Creek or Beach? Here’s Why

Published on August 15, 2022

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A drinking water main leak occurred this morning near Helen Keller Elementary. The pipe had to be dug up to be repaired.  During the repair, sediment was flushed into the stormwater drainage system and into Juanita Creek causing the creek water to appear “milky” or “dirty” as it flowed into Juanita Bay.

To be clear, this was not a sewage leak – it was fine sediment from the drinking water main repair that created “milky” or “dirty” looking creek water.

Northshore Utility District repaired the drinking water pipe and City of Kirkland Public Works crews cleaned the stormwater system.  The state Department of Ecology has also been notified as part of our standard procedures.

It’s taking a while for the milky water to clear out because Juanita Creek is running slowly, as is typical during late summer months. The sediment is also made up of very fine particles – which means the dirt stays suspended in the water longer. If the sediment were bigger, the dirt would settle sooner, and the water would clear out faster.

If you notice water quality concerns in Kirkland’s streams, lakes, wetlands, or stormwater system call our 24/7 Pollution hotline at 425-587-3900.

For more information on City of Kirkland Storm and Surface Water’s Spill Response program visit kirklandwa.gov/spills.

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