From The New York Shitty Inbox: More Ado About Brown Water

May 24, 2012 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic

A person we’ll call J writes (in regards to this post): The ‘brown’ stuff was most likely rust.

I emailed Lincoln Restler at your suggestion and got essentially the same answer posted in your followup but with this additional nugget: “DEP crews went out early this morning to flush the system; there was no health risk at any time.”

Who knew it was safe to drink rust?

I was at the laundromat at Green St and Manhattan Ave last night attempting to do laundry but luckily was warned off by a few upset women with stained clothes.

The MA state government has a brief description of this somewhat common occurrence (and some useful tips for those whose clothes were stained):

“Rusty water occurs from sediment in the pipes or rust from the inside walls of the water mains.The rust can be disturbed and temporarily suspended in water with unusual water flows from water main breaks or maintenance or by flushing of a hydrant. This discolored water is not a health threat. When the water is discolored it is recommended to either not wash laundry or to use a rust stain remover or regular detergent but not chlorine bleach as it will react with the iron to form a permanent stain.“

Posted by missheather 1 Comment

LAST GASP: Brown Water?

May 23, 2012 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic

A pal of mine called the Professor writes at 9:03 p.m.:

Hi Heather

is your water over there running brown? Pinkish brown? It’s been nonstop here for the better part of an hour. Running it longer doesn’t make it better.

We called 311.

Talked to a few people on Eagle Street all reporting the same dark water. Somebody wondered if that dig on Nassau might be the cause.

Funny how this happens while the “Is Greenpoint Safe?” gathering is underway. And I heard they were having drink specials. I’d get something without brown liquor if was there.

Any questions? If anyone has the 411 on this rather unsavory development please share via comments or email at missheather (at) thatgreenpointblog (dot) com. Your identity will remain anonymous if you so desire. Thanks!

UPDATE, May 24, 2012: Lincoln Restler is presently taking this matter up with the DEP. In order for him to determine the scope of the problem, anyone who experienced brown water last night should contact Mr. Restler at: lincolnpr (at) gmail (dot) com.

UPDATE, May 24, 2012 12:00 p.m.: We have an answer!

Posted by missheather 2 Comments