Algal Bloom Affects Water Taste, Odor: Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — Some Manatee County residents might notice a temporary — and non-harmful — change in their water taste or odor because of an algal bloom in Lake Manatee Reservoir, authorities said.

The algae bloom, a regular seasonal occurrence that varies in frequency and duration, affects customers of Manatee County Utilities, according to a Manatee County news release.

Current conditions favor a bloom, and tests conducted over the past several weeks indicate the presence of blue-green algae at elevated concentrations, which has imparted an “earthy and/or musty” taste or odor in the water, the county said. While the odor or taste may be noticeable, there are no known health effects caused by the presence of these compounds.

Since first detecting the compounds, Manatee County has been treating the water with powdered-activated carbon. This process effectively removes the compounds and minimizes impacts on customers’ water. It is only when the levels reach quantities that exceed the limit of our removal capability that customers may notice a slight “earthy/musty” taste to their water, the county said.

The water remains entirely safe for consumption, the county added. Though not necessary, customers can use a carbon filter hooked up to the faucet to the water system of the refrigerator or a filtered pitcher system to help minimize the off taste and/or odor.

“We are monitoring the levels of algae and odorants and treating for them until water quality returns to normal,” Katie Gilmore, utilities deputy director, said. “It is our hope that by informing the public of this potential impact of the algal bloom, we can alleviate any concerns that may arise should a customer detect an earthy taste or smell to their water."