News

“Dear Valued Customers,

This notice is to address concerns regarding the appearance of your drinking water, (Brownish tint) and the presence of unpleasant tastes and odors.

Our drinking water comes from a surface water supply. Like all surface water systems, it is subject to water quality changes due to environmental factors. All surface water plants are being affected by the recent high temperatures and significant rainfall which has increased the amount of organic compound and sediment entering raw water supplies.

These conditions may impact your water:

Brownish Discoloration: Heavy rainfall and increased runoff can wash dissolved and particulate matter, such as decaying leaves and eroded soil, into source water. This increased load of organic material can cause brownish or yellow tint in the water even after treatment. Changes in water flow can also stir up mineral sediments, mainly iron and manganese, that naturally accumulate in pipes over time, leading to temporary discoloration. This type of discoloration is considered an aesthetic issue and does not necessarily indicate a public health concern.

Unpleasant Taste and Odor: (Earthy/Musty): An increase in temperatures create the ideal conditions for algal blooms in the surface water source. These blooms, though removed during treatment, can produce harmless organic compounds like geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol (MIB). These compounds can be detected at very low concentrations by some customers resulting in an earthy musty taste and odor some may be experiencing. 

The Treatment Plant is adjusting its processes and increasing monitoring to address these water quality changes. Continuous monitoring of water quality parameters, including disinfectant residuals, help ensure safety. We are in communication with IDEM and all routine and special monitoring samples were analyzed and approved. Frequent water quality testing is conducted at various stages of the treatment process and in the distribution system to ensure the water quality. Your understanding and patience are appreciated as efforts are made to restore the aesthetic quality of your drinking water. 

Sincerely, 

Salem Water”

 PUBLISHER’S NOTE: The Washington County Times understands that this topic is important to our readers, and we will provide follow-ups if and when updates become available.