OKC to address discolored water in Draper Treatment Plant service area
Published on August 24, 2026
The Oklahoma City Utilities Department is responding to an increase in reports of discolored water from customers served by the Lake Stanley Draper Water Treatment Plant, including communities that purchase water wholesale from Oklahoma City, such as Norman and Yukon.
Although the discoloration may affect the water’s appearance, it does not affect its safety. The water remains safe to drink and continues to meet drinking water quality standards.
The Utilities Department is investigating the cause. Current observations indicate that naturally occurring iron and manganese may be contributing to the discoloration. Laboratory testing is underway to help confirm the cause and guide the Department's response.
Treatment adjustments were made Monday morning to provide additional oxidation time and improve iron and manganese removal through the filtration process. Because of the size of the distribution system and the current level of water demand, it will take time for the adjusted water to move throughout the Draper service area. Customers may begin seeing improvement by Wednesday, although timing will vary by location.
Utilities crews are also flushing water lines in response to customer reports. Flushing helps move discolored water out of the system, but customers may temporarily notice additional discoloration while nearby flushing is underway.
“We understand the concern customers have when their water looks different than expected, and our teams are working to identify the cause and address the issue,” said Utilities Department Director Chris Browning. “We have adjusted treatment at the plant, are testing the water and will continue responding to affected areas as we monitor conditions throughout the system.”
Customers experiencing discolored water should avoid washing light-colored clothing until the water clears. They may also run cold water from a bathtub faucet for several minutes to determine whether the water begins to clear. Customers who continue to experience discoloration should contact Oklahoma City Utilities Customer Service (405-297-2833) so the location can be documented and evaluated.
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Media Contact: Jasmine Morris, 405-297-1950, jasmine.morris@okc.gov