The Clinton Water Treatment Plant, located at 2101 Wakarusa Drive, is currently treating water with elevated levels of geosmin, a byproduct of blue-green algae. The geosmin poses no health risk to residents, but it may cause an earthy smell and taste in the water.
People have different levels of sensitivity to geosmin. Some can detect geosmin at very low levels while others may not notice any change in the water.
The higher rates of runoff this year have increased the influx of nutrients which, combined with warmer temperatures, are adding to the elevated geosmin levels.
The City has increased treatment to eliminate as much of the smell and taste differences as possible. Many natural conditions can cause taste and odor differences, however, these issues are relatively common throughout the year and the water is routinely tested and treated accordingly.
Please contact the Municipal Services and Operations Department at 785-832-7800 with any questions.
| What causes the periodic taste & odor in my water? How long will it last?
Geosmin, an earthy/musty tasting compound, is produced as a metabolic by-product of some forms of algae in the water. Algae grow faster in warmer weather and therefore, geosmin can be produced in the early summer months and in the fall. Infrequently, both the Clinton and Kaw treatment facilities can have taste & odor (T&O) issues arise.
Our experience indicates that some consumers can detect geosmin at extremely low concentrations, 2-5 nanograms per Liter (ng/L) or parts per trillion. The presence of geosmin in drinking water is an aesthetic concern and is not a health concern.
Unusual wind conditions, warm temperatures and a lack of precipitation can cause a rapid growth and dying algae blooms in the lake. Geosmin can be produced if the conditions are right and therefore can be the cause of a taste & odor episode. The higher rates of runoff this year have increased the influx of nutrients which, combined with warmer temperatures, are adding to the elevated geosmin levels. It is not possible to predict how long these episodes will last; however, the end of the problem can be determined if lower levels of geosmin are detected in the laboratory. Samples are collected and analyzed for geosmin monthly and more frequently when geosmin exceeds 5parts per trillion (PPT).
Presently, the City of Lawrence Municipal Services and Operations Department uses powdered activated carbon for the treatment of geosmin because it can be applied on demand at dosages tailored to the intensity of the problem. It is possible that treatment will not be completely successful in every taste & odor episode. |
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