Manatee County: Water Safe To Drink Despite Unusual Taste

BRADENTON, FL – Manatee County Utilities is looking to get the word out that a change in the county’s water supply is natural and safe for its residents to drink.

County officials said the somewhat earthy scent or taste to their water supply is the result of algae blooms that are common on Lake Manatee this time of year. Utilities officials said Monday, April 27 that water tests over the past several weeks indicate elevated levels of blue-green algae, which leaves the earthy or musty taste and odor to the water.

According the county officials, there are no known health effects caused by the presence of the blue-green algae compounds.

“It is our hope that by informing the public of this potential impact of the algal bloom, we are able to alleviate any concerns that may arise in case a customer detects an earthy taste or smell in their water,” said Mark Simpson, the Manatee County Water manager. “We will continue monitoring and treatment efforts until water quality returns to normal.”

In addition to its standard water treatment protocol, Utilities officials have added a powder-activated carbon to the treatment process in order to prevent any effect on customers’ water.

Though not necessary, Manatee County said their customers can install a store-bought carbon filter to any faucet, refrigerator water system or a filtrated pitcher system to help return water to its normal taste and scent. Chilling the water before drinking or adding drops of lemon juice to a glass of water can also help.

For more information or questions about water quality issues, contact the Manatee County Water Treatment Plant Quality Control Laboratory at (941) 746-3020 ext. 228 or ext. 226.

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