1. A method for execution by a dispersed storage and task (DST) execution unit that includes a processor, the method comprises: generating low-load prediction data based on a plurality of historical load samplings, wherein generating the low-load prediction data includes selecting a time period corresponding to a predicted low-load; generating maintenance task scheduling data based on the low-load prediction data, wherein generating the maintenance task scheduling data includes assigning a maintenance task to a scheduled time that is within the time period corresponding to the predicted low-load; generating current load data by comparing at least one load reading taken at a time before the time period to a low-load threshold; executing the maintenance task at the scheduled time when the at least one load reading compares unfavorably to the low-load threshold; and when the at least one load reading compares favorably to the low-load threshold: executing the maintenance task at an updated time that is earlier than the scheduled time; and delaying execution of an access request received via a network by rescheduling the execution of the access request from an original time to a later time in response to the at least one load reading comparing favorably to the low-load threshold, wherein the later time is selected based on the updated time and an expected execution duration of the maintenance task.