Water Distribution

The distribution system conveys all the water processed from the water treatment facility to the water consumers. There are many parts that make up the distribution system:

  • Main water line: 16-inch, 12-inch, 10-inch, 8-inch, 6-inch, 4-inch are the common sizes
  • Water services: the pipe that carries water from the water main to residents, commercial and industrial buildings. Sizes range from 3/4-inch to 4 inches
  • Curbstop: is the valve that shuts water off from the water main to the water service.
  • Gate valve: Valves on the water mains.
  • Hydrants: hookups for fire protection
  • Booster Station: pumps to boost water pressure in areas of the city. Amesbury has one: Challis Hill
  • Water Storage Tank: a reservoir to keep water for fire protection, consumption and maintain distribution system pressure. Amesbury has a 2 million gallon tank on Po Hill.
  1. 1 Crew with Pre-Installed Fittings
  2. 2 Man Holding Socket Wrench
  3. 3 Man in Hardhat at Digging Site
  4. 4 Man Operating an Excavator
  5. 5 Old Water Main with Heavy Tuberculation
  6. 6 Piping with Thrust Block
  7. 7 Water Break Repair
  8. 8 Water Crew Installing Valve During Plant Upgrade
  9. 9 Water Department Crew
  10. 10 Water Pipe Install During Water Tank Upgrade
  11. 11 Water Pipe Stock

Water Distribution System MapThe Water Maintenance crew is responsible for sustaining the water distribution system. This includes:

  • Complaint investigation
  • Hydrant flushing
  • Hydrant repairs
  • Miscellaneous projects
  • Snow plowing
  • Water main breaks
  • Water service breaks
  • Water service renewals (city side)