Some people who get their drinking water from the Lake Huron Primary Water Supply System (LHPWSS) may have recently noticed a strange taste or smell. The water might taste or smell earthy, musty, moldy, or like a swamp. While some people are more sensitive to these changes, others may not notice anything different.
The taste and smell are caused by a natural compound called geosmin. It comes from bacteria and algae in the lake, especially during late summer and fall when the water is warmer. Geosmin is not harmful to health, and the drinking water continues to meet all safety standards set by the province.
The Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA), which operates the system, is keeping a close eye on the situation. More lab samples are being taken, and extra steps like adding more powdered activated carbon are being used in the treatment process to help reduce the odour and taste.
Geosmin levels can change depending on the weather, and it’s hard to predict how long the issue will last. If you’re sensitive to the taste or smell, putting your water in the fridge for a few hours or using a filter may help. But the water is still safe to drink.
The Lake Huron Water Treatment Plant supplies drinking water to about 400,000 people in communities like Bluewater, Lambton Shores, South Huron, Strathroy-Caradoc, and the City of London. The plant runs daily tests to make sure the water stays clean and safe. You can learn more at huronelginwater.ca.
Written by: K. Milhomens