Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Navy officials on April 23 were still investigating a water leak on the Seavey Island base first discovered April 19.
The yard has not officially determined the source, but a water main break or an “excessive leak” are suspected, according to the shipyard. The inquiry began when reduced water pressure was observed Sunday at the 226-year-old yard.
The leak has been isolated but naval and shipyard personnel have not identified the specific location for repair.
“Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is intentionally limiting some industrial operations to safely work within the confines of the ongoing troubleshooting efforts,” reads a Thursday, April 23 statement from the shipyard. “Naval Support Activity Maine’s Public Works Department is working urgently to resolve this issue and restore full water service as quickly and safely as possible. The safety, well-being, and quality of life of our sailors, civilian workforce, and their families are our highest priorities.”
The Kittery Water District announced some customers may notice temporary water discoloration due to high flow within the system. Melissa Locke, the district’s operations and compliance manager, said April 23 the issue has since been resolved and affected only a handful of customers in the area of the shipyard due to the water leak.
“There really wasn’t that much (other) impact at all,” Locke said of the leak’s impact on Kittery water users.
The water district did not have a finalized figure noting how many gallons of water had leaked at the shipyard as of Thursday morning.
Interim Town Manager Robert Richter stated the town remains in contact with the shipyard amid repair efforts.
“They’re keeping us apprised of their progress,” he said April 23. “I know they’ve been working with the Kittery Water District on resolving their issues. We have had constant communications with the shipyard.”
The shipyard is limiting demand on its water supply by allowing eligible employees to work remotely.
This story may be updated.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald. Reporting by Ian Lenahan,
