Discoloration in the City of Clemson’s drinking water

The City of Clemson is experiencing an increase in discoloration in its drinking water and has issued the following ***PUBLIC NOTICE FROM THE ANDERSON REGIONAL JOINT WATER SYSTEM*** “The water plant has detected color in the raw drinking water supply
caused by increased levels of manganese and iron dissolved in the water.
Manganese and iron are naturally occurring elements that are abundant
on earth and essential to human health. The water remains safe to drink
and is not demonstrating any taste or odor issues at this time.
Water may appear to have a slight gray tint with manganese and a
red-brown tint with iron. If you notice any water discoloration, limit clothes
washing until discoloration subsides. The appearance of any tint should
disappear over the next few days as water already in the distribution system
is used. Staff is implementing methods to address the increased color including
pre-oxidation of manganese and iron to hasten its removal during filtration,
optimizing other in-plant treatment processes, and increasing powdered
activated carbon to help capture any organic color. The color is not present
at the water treatment plant clear well but is reappearing in the distribution
system as dissolved manganese and iron are exposed to oxygen later in
the distribution system. Staff is increasing the frequency of taste and odor panel sampling and including an appearance assessment. As always additional volunteers for the taste
and odor panel are needed and appreciated. We will continue to keep you aware
should any further changes occur. We apologize for the inconvenience and please bear with us while this problem is resolved.”
If you have any questions concerning this press release, please call the City of Clemson Utilities Department at 864-653-2046 during normal business hours or the Police Department at 864-624-2000 after normal business hours.