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News Release

Cryptosporidium Monitoring Update: Detections From Routine Monitoring In The Bull Run. Customers Do Not Need To Take Any Additional Precautions At This Time. - 12/31/25

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from December 26 to December 29, 2025, two Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in the 50 liters collected on December 28 and one oocyst was detected in the sample collected on December 29. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on December 26 or December 27. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run drinking water source on December 9, 2025.

 

The Bull Run watershed is Portland’s primary source of drinking water. The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium, but is required to do so under drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by September 30, 2027 under a compliance schedule with the Oregon Health Authority. In the meantime, Portland Water Bureau is implementing interim measures such as watershed protection and additional monitoring to protect public health. Consultation with public health officials has concluded that at this time, customers do not need to take any additional precautions.

 

Exposure to Cryptosporidium can cause cryptosporidiosis, a serious illness. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain. People with healthy immune systems recover without medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with severely weakened immune systems are at risk for more serious disease. Symptoms may be more severe and could lead to serious or life-threatening illness. Examples of people with weakened immune systems include those with AIDS, those with inherited diseases that affect the immune system, and cancer and transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressive drugs.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their healthcare professional about the safety of drinking the tap water. The Portland Water Bureau and Burlington, City of Gresham, City of Sandy, City of Tualatin, Green Valley, GNR, Hideaway Hills, Lake Grove, Lorna Domestic Water, Lusted, Palatine Hill, Pleasant Home, Raleigh, Rockwood, Skyview Acres, Tualatin Valley, Two Rivers, Valley View and West Slope Water Districts receive all or part of their drinking water supply from Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local drinking water provider.

 

The public and the media are encouraged to view all sampling results posted to the City’s website at portland.gov/water/cryptoresults. The bureau will notify the media and public immediately should further test results indicate a risk to public health and precautions are necessary.

 

Customers with questions regarding water quality can call the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

 

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

Cryptosporidium Monitoring Update: Detections From Routine Monitoring In The Bull Run. Customers Do Not Need To Take Any Additional Precautions At This Time. - 12/31/25

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from December 26 to December 29, 2025, two Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in the 50 liters collected on December 28 and one oocyst was detected in the sample collected on December 29. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on December 26 or December 27. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run drinking water source on December 9, 2025.

 

The Bull Run watershed is Portland’s primary source of drinking water. The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium, but is required to do so under drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by September 30, 2027 under a compliance schedule with the Oregon Health Authority. In the meantime, Portland Water Bureau is implementing interim measures such as watershed protection and additional monitoring to protect public health. Consultation with public health officials has concluded that at this time, customers do not need to take any additional precautions.

 

Exposure to Cryptosporidium can cause cryptosporidiosis, a serious illness. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain. People with healthy immune systems recover without medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with severely weakened immune systems are at risk for more serious disease. Symptoms may be more severe and could lead to serious or life-threatening illness. Examples of people with weakened immune systems include those with AIDS, those with inherited diseases that affect the immune system, and cancer and transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressive drugs.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their healthcare professional about the safety of drinking the tap water. The Portland Water Bureau and Burlington, City of Gresham, City of Sandy, City of Tualatin, Green Valley, GNR, Hideaway Hills, Lake Grove, Lorna Domestic Water, Lusted, Palatine Hill, Pleasant Home, Raleigh, Rockwood, Skyview Acres, Tualatin Valley, Two Rivers, Valley View and West Slope Water Districts receive all or part of their drinking water supply from Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local drinking water provider.

 

The public and the media are encouraged to view all sampling results posted to the City’s website at portland.gov/water/cryptoresults. The bureau will notify the media and public immediately should further test results indicate a risk to public health and precautions are necessary.

 

Customers with questions regarding water quality can call the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

 

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

Portland Transitions To Primary Water Source, The Bull Run Watershed (Photo) - 12/26/25

Secondary groundwater source provided supplemental water supply during heavy turbidity

 

The Portland Water Bureau has returned to providing 100 percent Bull Run water to Portlanders.

 

Recent heavy rains caused a rapid increase in turbidity (organic material in the water) in the Bull Run Watershed. Due to this increased turbidity, on December 19 we temporarily turned off the Bull Run water supply and began serving 100 percent groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field.

 

A return to more seasonal weather has allowed the turbidity to settle, allowing us to resume serving water from our primary water source, the Bull Run Watershed.

 

It can take up to two weeks for customers to receive 100 percent Bull Run water at their taps, depending on their location. As the turbidity continues to settle, customers may notice a slight tea like color to the Bull Run source. This is a harmless discoloration from fine organic matter in the Bull Run.

 

Careful management of the groundwater system allowed us to provide clean, safe drinking water to the region despite this year’s heavy rains.  

 

“Extreme weather events are prompting us to invest in water infrastructure like groundwater and filtration that help keep our water clean and safe,” said Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light. “We’re investing in maintenance and improvements today so our community can count on reliable water no matter the weather.”

 

Water system investments matter  

 

Our ability to reliably provide clean, safe water for future generations depends on sustaining investments in our water system. Customer funding makes it possible for the bureau to tap two sources of clean, reliable water to adapt to a changing environment.

Portland Water is planning a new filtration facility and pipelines to keep our water safe and abundant for the nearly one million people who depend on it today and for future generations.

 

The new Bull Run filtration facility will be another powerful tool in addressing the potential water quality impacts of extreme weather events. The filtration facility will be able to remove sediment, organic material and other contaminants from our water—enabling the Water Bureau to reliably serve Bull Run water after an event like an extreme storm. It will also remove disease-causing microorganisms from our water to make it even safer.

 

“We share in the benefits and costs of the critical work to maintain our resilient water system,” Light said. “You fund this critical work every time you pay your water bill.”

 

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.


Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

 

Attached Media Files: Bull Run Watershed,

Portland Transitions To Primary Water Source, The Bull Run Watershed (Photo) - 12/26/25

Secondary groundwater source provided supplemental water supply during heavy turbidity

 

The Portland Water Bureau has returned to providing 100 percent Bull Run water to Portlanders.

 

Recent heavy rains caused a rapid increase in turbidity (organic material in the water) in the Bull Run Watershed. Due to this increased turbidity, on December 19 we temporarily turned off the Bull Run water supply and began serving 100 percent groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field.

 

A return to more seasonal weather has allowed the turbidity to settle, allowing us to resume serving water from our primary water source, the Bull Run Watershed.

 

It can take up to two weeks for customers to receive 100 percent Bull Run water at their taps, depending on their location. As the turbidity continues to settle, customers may notice a slight tea like color to the Bull Run source. This is a harmless discoloration from fine organic matter in the Bull Run.

 

Careful management of the groundwater system allowed us to provide clean, safe drinking water to the region despite this year’s heavy rains.  

 

“Extreme weather events are prompting us to invest in water infrastructure like groundwater and filtration that help keep our water clean and safe,” said Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light. “We’re investing in maintenance and improvements today so our community can count on reliable water no matter the weather.”

 

Water system investments matter  

 

Our ability to reliably provide clean, safe water for future generations depends on sustaining investments in our water system. Customer funding makes it possible for the bureau to tap two sources of clean, reliable water to adapt to a changing environment.

Portland Water is planning a new filtration facility and pipelines to keep our water safe and abundant for the nearly one million people who depend on it today and for future generations.

 

The new Bull Run filtration facility will be another powerful tool in addressing the potential water quality impacts of extreme weather events. The filtration facility will be able to remove sediment, organic material and other contaminants from our water—enabling the Water Bureau to reliably serve Bull Run water after an event like an extreme storm. It will also remove disease-causing microorganisms from our water to make it even safer.

 

“We share in the benefits and costs of the critical work to maintain our resilient water system,” Light said. “You fund this critical work every time you pay your water bill.”

 

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.


Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

 

Attached Media Files: Bull Run Watershed,

Water Supply Switched To Groundwater Due To Rain-driven Turbidity (Photo) - 12/19/25

New filtration facility will reduce impacts of storm runoff in the future

 

Heavy rains have caused a rapid increase in turbidity (organic material suspended in the water) in the Bull Run Watershed. Due to this increased turbidity, the Portland Water Bureau has temporarily turned off the Bull Run water supply and is serving 100 percent groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field.

 

No action is needed by the public. The community’s water supply remains safe to drink. The Columbia South Shore Well Field is doing what it was designed to do: meeting our community’s drinking water needs while complying with safe drinking water regulations.

 

Operations Manager Kimberly Gupta said the transition from Bull Run water to 100 percent groundwater went smoothly. She credits ratepayers’ ongoing investments in Portland’s two water sources and the dedication of the Water Bureau staff who keep the water system working.

 

"Getting water to flow from a faucet seems simple," Gupta said. "But it takes the hard work of engineers, construction crews, customer service staff, certified operators and more to continually deliver safe water."

 

Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light said groundwater is a powerful tool in planning for extreme weather.

 

“We constantly monitor water quality and plan ahead for the weather’s impact on our water supply,” said Light. “This careful planning ensures we’re ready to meet our region’s water needs now and into the future.”

 

The new Bull Run filtration facility will be another powerful tool in addressing the potential water quality impacts of extreme weather events. The filtration facility will be able to remove sediment, organic material and other contaminants from our water—enabling the Water Bureau to reliably serve Bull Run water after an event like an extreme storm. It will also remove disease-causing microorganisms from our water to make it even safer.

 

Columbia South Shore Well Field

 

The Columbia South Shore Well Field is a robust secondary drinking water source that supplements our Bull Run supply. It can be used to augment water from the Bull Run during hot, dry summers and can be served when Bull Run water is unavailable for other reasons, such as a storm, flood, fire or natural disaster. Together, our two water sources improve the reliability of our water system and ensure that we can deliver excellent water every minute of every day.

 

Groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water quality standards. The well field produces high-quality drinking water from protected aquifers deep below the ground.

 

Depending on a household’s location, it can take up to two weeks for groundwater to move through the distribution system and replace Bull Run water at the tap. The Water Bureau will operate the groundwater system as long as weather conditions and water quality dictate. The Water Bureau will issue a notification when the system returns to 100 percent Bull Run water.

 

Learn more about our groundwater at portland.gov/groundwater.Customers with questions should contact the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

 

Bull Run Treatment Projects

 

The Bull Run Filtration Project will reduce the impact of turbidity events and remove Cryptosporidium and other potential contaminants from the Bull Run supply, producing cleaner, safer water for the nearly one million people who use our water today and for future generations. The project is required by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and a compliance agreement with the Oregon Health Authority. Visit portland.gov/filtration for more information.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With over 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

 

Attached Media Files: Columbia South Shore Well Field,

Water Supply Switched To Groundwater Due To Rain-driven Turbidity (Photo) - 12/19/25

New filtration facility will reduce impacts of storm runoff in the future

 

Heavy rains have caused a rapid increase in turbidity (organic material suspended in the water) in the Bull Run Watershed. Due to this increased turbidity, the Portland Water Bureau has temporarily turned off the Bull Run water supply and is serving 100 percent groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field.

 

No action is needed by the public. The community’s water supply remains safe to drink. The Columbia South Shore Well Field is doing what it was designed to do: meeting our community’s drinking water needs while complying with safe drinking water regulations.

 

Operations Manager Kimberly Gupta said the transition from Bull Run water to 100 percent groundwater went smoothly. She credits ratepayers’ ongoing investments in Portland’s two water sources and the dedication of the Water Bureau staff who keep the water system working.

 

"Getting water to flow from a faucet seems simple," Gupta said. "But it takes the hard work of engineers, construction crews, customer service staff, certified operators and more to continually deliver safe water."

 

Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light said groundwater is a powerful tool in planning for extreme weather.

 

“We constantly monitor water quality and plan ahead for the weather’s impact on our water supply,” said Light. “This careful planning ensures we’re ready to meet our region’s water needs now and into the future.”

 

The new Bull Run filtration facility will be another powerful tool in addressing the potential water quality impacts of extreme weather events. The filtration facility will be able to remove sediment, organic material and other contaminants from our water—enabling the Water Bureau to reliably serve Bull Run water after an event like an extreme storm. It will also remove disease-causing microorganisms from our water to make it even safer.

 

Columbia South Shore Well Field

 

The Columbia South Shore Well Field is a robust secondary drinking water source that supplements our Bull Run supply. It can be used to augment water from the Bull Run during hot, dry summers and can be served when Bull Run water is unavailable for other reasons, such as a storm, flood, fire or natural disaster. Together, our two water sources improve the reliability of our water system and ensure that we can deliver excellent water every minute of every day.

 

Groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water quality standards. The well field produces high-quality drinking water from protected aquifers deep below the ground.

 

Depending on a household’s location, it can take up to two weeks for groundwater to move through the distribution system and replace Bull Run water at the tap. The Water Bureau will operate the groundwater system as long as weather conditions and water quality dictate. The Water Bureau will issue a notification when the system returns to 100 percent Bull Run water.

 

Learn more about our groundwater at portland.gov/groundwater.Customers with questions should contact the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

 

Bull Run Treatment Projects

 

The Bull Run Filtration Project will reduce the impact of turbidity events and remove Cryptosporidium and other potential contaminants from the Bull Run supply, producing cleaner, safer water for the nearly one million people who use our water today and for future generations. The project is required by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and a compliance agreement with the Oregon Health Authority. Visit portland.gov/filtration for more information.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With over 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

 

Attached Media Files: Columbia South Shore Well Field,

Discolored Water? Filtration Will Help With That (Photo) - 12/16/25

The future Bull Run filtration facility will eliminate one annual tradition for Portlanders: a harmless seasonal change in the appearance of our drinking water.

 

As fall rains return and refill the Bull Run reservoirs, some Portlanders are seeing a slight color change in their drinking water. This is a normal occurrence and doesn’t affect the safety of our drinking water. Heavy rains wash organic material like leaves into the streams and reservoirs in the Bull Run Watershed. This can cause a slight tea-like tint in tap water and stain water filters in homes and businesses.

One of the many whys behind filtration

Avoiding seasonal discoloration in our drinking water is just one of filtration’s many benefits. By building a new, seismically resilient filtration facility, we are making an  important investment in improved water quality. The new Bull Run filtration facility will help us treat for Cryptosporidium, storm-related turbidity, emerging climate-related risks, and, yes, the organic material that causes discolored water.

 

“Filtration will give us a powerful tool for addressing current and emerging risks to our drinking water system. It is a generational investment in the safety and reliability of Portland’s water,” said Water Bureau Operations Director Kimberly Gupta.

 

If you have discolored water that is not a yellow tint, please report it to the Water Quality Line. Water that is brown or darker than a tint—more like coffee than tea in color—may be caused by something else happening in your neighborhood.

Quicker recovery

The new filtration facility will remove sediment from our water and allow us to safely serve Bull Run water after a fire or extreme weather event. Heavy rains can wash dirt, bits of plants, ash, and other organic material into our streams and reservoirs. This can be more pronounced following a wildfire. The Bull Run is currently unfiltered. Right now, if large amounts of dirt or organic material enter our supply, we can’t safely serve the water.

 

Once the filtration facility is up and running, our upgraded multistep treatment process will help address turbidity (sediment suspended in water) and other potential impacts to our water supply that can result from a fire, a landslide, volcanic activity, or a large storm.

 

Filtration will not only provide stronger supply resilience—it will also help Portland comply with federal and state safe drinking water regulations today and in the future. The Water Bureau is required to build the filtration facility to remove the microorganism Cryptosporidium from our water.

 

The Water Bureau is working under a compliance agreement with the Oregon Health Authority to have the new facility in operation by September 2027.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000: Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

Attached Media Files: Bull Run Watershed, Bull Run Watershed in Fall, Aerial View of Bull Run Watershed,

Discolored Water? Filtration Will Help With That (Photo) - 12/16/25

The future Bull Run filtration facility will eliminate one annual tradition for Portlanders: a harmless seasonal change in the appearance of our drinking water.

 

As fall rains return and refill the Bull Run reservoirs, some Portlanders are seeing a slight color change in their drinking water. This is a normal occurrence and doesn’t affect the safety of our drinking water. Heavy rains wash organic material like leaves into the streams and reservoirs in the Bull Run Watershed. This can cause a slight tea-like tint in tap water and stain water filters in homes and businesses.

One of the many whys behind filtration

Avoiding seasonal discoloration in our drinking water is just one of filtration’s many benefits. By building a new, seismically resilient filtration facility, we are making an  important investment in improved water quality. The new Bull Run filtration facility will help us treat for Cryptosporidium, storm-related turbidity, emerging climate-related risks, and, yes, the organic material that causes discolored water.

 

“Filtration will give us a powerful tool for addressing current and emerging risks to our drinking water system. It is a generational investment in the safety and reliability of Portland’s water,” said Water Bureau Operations Director Kimberly Gupta.

 

If you have discolored water that is not a yellow tint, please report it to the Water Quality Line. Water that is brown or darker than a tint—more like coffee than tea in color—may be caused by something else happening in your neighborhood.

Quicker recovery

The new filtration facility will remove sediment from our water and allow us to safely serve Bull Run water after a fire or extreme weather event. Heavy rains can wash dirt, bits of plants, ash, and other organic material into our streams and reservoirs. This can be more pronounced following a wildfire. The Bull Run is currently unfiltered. Right now, if large amounts of dirt or organic material enter our supply, we can’t safely serve the water.

 

Once the filtration facility is up and running, our upgraded multistep treatment process will help address turbidity (sediment suspended in water) and other potential impacts to our water supply that can result from a fire, a landslide, volcanic activity, or a large storm.

 

Filtration will not only provide stronger supply resilience—it will also help Portland comply with federal and state safe drinking water regulations today and in the future. The Water Bureau is required to build the filtration facility to remove the microorganism Cryptosporidium from our water.

 

The Water Bureau is working under a compliance agreement with the Oregon Health Authority to have the new facility in operation by September 2027.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000: Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

Attached Media Files: Bull Run Watershed, Bull Run Watershed in Fall, Aerial View of Bull Run Watershed,

You’re Invited To Speak Directly To The Architects And Engineers Bringing Back The Thompson Elk - 12/15/25

The Thompson Elk Fountain is making its return to Downtown Portland, and we’re as excited as you are. But bringing back this historic piece of public art isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Join the Portland Water Bureau for a Q&A about the restoration process and the complex underground water system that brings the fountain to life. Receive project updates directly from the architects, engineers, conservators and builders working to bring this beloved piece of the city’s history back home.

 

What:   Get the latest status on the elk’s return, directly from the project’s engineers, conservators and builders

 

When:  Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 11 a.m. to noon

 

Where: The Thompson Elk Fountain site, SW Main Street between Third and Fourth Avenues

 

Read more about the elk’s progress here.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000: Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

You’re Invited To Speak Directly To The Architects And Engineers Bringing Back The Thompson Elk - 12/15/25

The Thompson Elk Fountain is making its return to Downtown Portland, and we’re as excited as you are. But bringing back this historic piece of public art isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Join the Portland Water Bureau for a Q&A about the restoration process and the complex underground water system that brings the fountain to life. Receive project updates directly from the architects, engineers, conservators and builders working to bring this beloved piece of the city’s history back home.

 

What:   Get the latest status on the elk’s return, directly from the project’s engineers, conservators and builders

 

When:  Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 11 a.m. to noon

 

Where: The Thompson Elk Fountain site, SW Main Street between Third and Fourth Avenues

 

Read more about the elk’s progress here.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

Access and accommodations

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000: Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

Cryptosporidium Monitoring Update: Detections From Routine Monitoring In The Bull Run. Customers Do Not Need To Take Any Additional Precautions At This Time. - 12/12/25

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from December 7 to December 10, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on December 7 and December 9. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on December 8 or December 10. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on December 3, 2025.

 

The Bull Run watershed is Portland’s primary source of drinking water. The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium, but is required to do so under drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by September 30, 2027 under a compliance schedule with the Oregon Health Authority. In the meantime, Portland Water Bureau is implementing interim measures such as watershed protection and additional monitoring to protect public health. Consultation with public health officials has concluded that at this time, customers do not need to take any additional precautions.

 

Exposure to Cryptosporidium can cause cryptosporidiosis, a serious illness. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain. People with healthy immune systems recover without medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with severely weakened immune systems are at risk for more serious disease. Symptoms may be more severe and could lead to serious or life-threatening illness. Examples of people with weakened immune systems include those with AIDS, those with inherited diseases that affect the immune system, and cancer and transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressive drugs.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their healthcare professional about the safety of drinking the tap water. The Portland Water Bureau and Burlington, City of Gresham, City of Sandy, City of Tualatin, Green Valley, GNR, Hideaway Hills, Lake Grove, Lorna Domestic Water, Lusted, Palatine Hill, Pleasant Home, Raleigh, Rockwood, Skyview Acres, Tualatin Valley, Two Rivers, Valley View and West Slope Water Districts receive all or part of their drinking water supply from Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local drinking water provider.

 

The public and the media are encouraged to view all sampling results posted to the City’s website at portland.gov/water/cryptoresults. The bureau will notify the media and public immediately should further test results indicate a risk to public health and precautions are necessary.

 

Customers with questions regarding water quality can call the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

 

Cryptosporidium Monitoring Update: Detections From Routine Monitoring In The Bull Run. Customers Do Not Need To Take Any Additional Precautions At This Time. - 12/12/25

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from December 7 to December 10, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on December 7 and December 9. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on December 8 or December 10. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on December 3, 2025.

 

The Bull Run watershed is Portland’s primary source of drinking water. The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium, but is required to do so under drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by September 30, 2027 under a compliance schedule with the Oregon Health Authority. In the meantime, Portland Water Bureau is implementing interim measures such as watershed protection and additional monitoring to protect public health. Consultation with public health officials has concluded that at this time, customers do not need to take any additional precautions.

 

Exposure to Cryptosporidium can cause cryptosporidiosis, a serious illness. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain. People with healthy immune systems recover without medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with severely weakened immune systems are at risk for more serious disease. Symptoms may be more severe and could lead to serious or life-threatening illness. Examples of people with weakened immune systems include those with AIDS, those with inherited diseases that affect the immune system, and cancer and transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressive drugs.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their healthcare professional about the safety of drinking the tap water. The Portland Water Bureau and Burlington, City of Gresham, City of Sandy, City of Tualatin, Green Valley, GNR, Hideaway Hills, Lake Grove, Lorna Domestic Water, Lusted, Palatine Hill, Pleasant Home, Raleigh, Rockwood, Skyview Acres, Tualatin Valley, Two Rivers, Valley View and West Slope Water Districts receive all or part of their drinking water supply from Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local drinking water provider.

 

The public and the media are encouraged to view all sampling results posted to the City’s website at portland.gov/water/cryptoresults. The bureau will notify the media and public immediately should further test results indicate a risk to public health and precautions are necessary.

 

Customers with questions regarding water quality can call the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

 

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas