Baltimore City began blending Susquehanna River water into its drinking-water supply as drought conditions drain its reservoirs, including Prettyboy Reservoir, which has fallen to a 20-year low, Public Works Director Matthew Garbark said Oct. 9. The initial mix is expected to contain 20% to 40% Susquehanna water. It will reach households in eastern Baltimore City, parts of Baltimore County and some areas of southwest Baltimore. The water is being treated at the Montebello Water Treatment Plant after traveling nearly 40 miles. At the plant, sedimentation basins remove debris before filtration. City officials said they are increasing tests of both water sources and the finished blend before it enters the distribution system. Garbark said the city has blended river water before and described the supply as safe for residents. Public Works officials expect the water to look, smell and taste as usual. The city is still urging residents to conserve water under a voluntary restriction. Suggestions include watering lawns less, taking shorter showers and fixing leaking faucets. Officials are hoping for a wet winter to replenish reservoirs; if rain does not arrive, the city expects to continue using the river-water blend.