The Public Utility Commission of Oregon (PUC) opened an investigation into Parkdale Water Company on July 7 following a public hearing. “Throughout this process, we have learned a great deal and have taken steps to improve our operations," Parkdale Water said in a statement to Columbia Gorge News.
The ammonia leak at the Willis packing house that closed Highway 35 for approximately two hours last week was apparently caused by a broken petcock, a small valve used to control the flow of liquid or gas, off the bottom of a receiver tank, said Wy’East Fire Chief Greg Borton.
Emergency crews closed and evacuated Highway 35 between Paasch Drive and Dethman Ridge Road, as well as all of Van Horn Drive and Mason Road, in the mid-valley for approximately two hours yesterday due to an ammonia leak at a fruit packing house.
The newest school in District 21 suffered the worst leak due to snow, the school board heard last Thursday. The Dalles Middle School, built in 2004, suffered a “major” leak in the band room which caused some “semi-flooding” that affected the drywall and carpeting, said Don Carter, director of facilities for North Wasco County School District 21.
As of Thursday, KPUD is reporting that the reservoir is back to full capacity following a massive water leak that caused Lyle residents to conserve water on Wednesday.
