Drinking Water Deemed Safe By Forsyth County

FORSYTH COUNTY, GA -- The Forsyth County Water and Sewer Department said it is working to control murky and smelly water for residents.

Last week, the department said it was aware that some residents reported their water had an unusual taste and odor. Testing of the raw water from Lake Lanier confirmed that levels of Methylisoborneol (MIB) and Geosmin were higher than have been seen in past years.

These two compounds are not harmful, the county said. However, they can cause an earthy, musty taste and odor in water. While some people may notice this, many others will not notice it. Unfortunately, this taste and odor are not easily removed by traditional treatment techniques.

This earthy, musty taste and odor can be caused by what is referred to as the “turn over,” or inversion, of Lake Lanier, as well as other land conditions which can release these naturally occurring compounds.

However, the county said the water from Forsyth County is safe to drink, and the county is continually testing and monitoring to ensure the safety of the water.

Forsyth County Water and Sewer Department has installed a powder activated carbon (PAC) system at the drinking water treatment facility to help reduce the levels of MIB and Geosmin in the water.

While the PAC system is designed to reduce these levels, it may take time for the results to be seen throughout the county. Even once the MIB and Geosmin levels have been reduced in the finished water, it is possible that some individuals will still be able to detect them.

As the circumstances in Lake Lanier change and the levels of these compounds in the raw water are reduced, it will naturally reduce the levels in the finished water that is sent to customers’ homes.

As part of the process to move the PAC system water through the pipes, the Water and Sewer Department has been flushing the system at various points. This is done by opening a fire hydrant to allow large amounts of water to pass through.

When this is done, it can introduce air into the water distribution system. The water is safe to drink, it just may have a cloudy or milky appearance. By letting the container of water sit for a few minutes, the air bubbles will rise to the top and the water will be clear again.

To check updates, visit the county's website.