This paper discusses a four-step program to assist utilities with developing, implementing, and evaluating the effectiveness of individual flushing programs that includes: determining the appropriateness of flushing as part of a utility maintenance program; planning and managing a flushing program; implementing a flushing program and data collection; and, evaluating and revising a flushing program. Utilities should not rely on flushing as a cure for chronic problems. Adequate source water treatment may be necessary to permanently prevent certain types of water quality deterioration. If conducted in conjunction with other preventative maintenance practices, flushing may not require drastic increases in operating/maintenance budgets. The flushing approach, velocity, frequency, and duration will be specific to individual water quality concerns, hydraulic conditions, source water treatment, and system design. Utilities should select a flushing velocity based on specific water quality objectives. Experimentation with velocities, duration, and frequency should be part of a flushing refinement program. Planning, public notification, and communication with stakeholders should be a mandatory aspect of all flushing programs. Data collection before, during, and after flushing is imperative to understanding the benefits, costs, and secondary impacts due to flushing. If adequate data are not collected, program refinement and a cost/benefit analysis can not be conducted.