Date: Fri, 7 Mar 2014 16:51:57 +0000
From: Debra Henzey
Subject: Chatham Advises Water Customers on Seasonal Musty Taste and Odor
March 7, 2014
Contact: Leonard McBryde, 919-542-8270
Chatham Advises Water Customers on Seasonal Musty Taste and Odor
PITTSBORO — Chatham County Water Utilities reports that routine sampling of raw water from Jordan Lake Reservoir has found higher levels of compounds caused by seasonal lake conditions. The result is that county water in some areas will have a musty taste and odor for the next month or so, but the water is still safe to drink.
The primary area is the North Water system, which is served by water taken from Jordan Lake. It includes all northern communities and some in the southeast, including Corinth, Moncure, Bynum, Fearrington, Briar Chapel and Governors Club.
“This is a seasonal issue that is not uncommon for water systems that draw raw water from lakes,” said Leonard McBryde, director of Chatham Water Utilities. “We are taking actions at the Water Treatment Plant to minimize musty taste and odor, but it may not completely remove it.”
Chatham County presently adds activated carbon at the Water Treatment Plant to minimize the taste and odor issues, one of several recommended processes.
Despite seasonal fluctuations in the taste and odor of the water, Chatham County’s water continues to meet all regulatory standards for drinking water quality.
“Fortunately, taste and odor events like this are typically temporary in nature and usually last less than a month. In the meantime, customers can use a carbon filter or refrigerate water in a pitcher to help minimize the taste and odor,” McBryde said.
Debra J. Henzey
Director of Community Relations
Chatham County, NC
Office 919-542-8258 Cell 919-548-4662
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