Algae in Drinking Water

Algae is always present in surface water, but how much and what kind is what matters. Not all algae is toxic, but some types at higher levels can be to humans and pets.

Columbus monitors regularly for algal growth in its surface water reservoirs, along with other possible contaminants. When additional treatment beyond the robust treatment process already used is needed to deal with changing conditions in our source water, powdered activated carbon and potassium permanganate are added.

While anything is possible, Columbus has more tools and options to meet an issue such as hazardous algal blooms. In addition to treatment and powdered activated carbon, we have flexibility through our varied water resources (Hoover, Griggs and O'Shaughnessy Reservoirs, a new upground reservoir, and wells); the ability to withdraw at different reservoir levels; and an expert algal research and monitoring program.

Additionally, the city has been proactive in planning and will be bringing new treatment technologies online within the next few years at the Hap Cremean and Dublin Road water plants. These new technologies, including ozone and biologically active carbon filtration, will add to our treatment capabilities and also combat any taste and odor aspects that can occur with varied blooms, toxic or otherwise. The Parsons Avenue Water Plant relies on wells and is not affected by surface water challenges.

Generally, taste and odor is not a good indicator of a water quality problem; this is more perception than reality.

Aesthetic changes could be a result of a non-harmful algal bloom. Customers tend to notice an earthy, musty or fishy taste and odor when this occurs. These seasonal phenomena can also be caused by the bi-annual turnover of our city reservoirs. It is important to note this taste and odor poses no health concern but one of aesthetic quality.

If a health related water quality issue occurs, we are required by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to notify customers. The city would do that via the news media, social media and our Web site. If you notice anything different about your water, visit Common Water Quality Concerns or call the Water Quality Assurance Laboratory at 614-645-7691.

Advanced treatment techniques involving powder activated carbon, pulling water from different depths within the reservoir and remote real-time sensors are used to help mitigate this problem.

Additionally, the city has been proactive in planning and will be bringing new treatment technologies online within the next few years at the Hap Cremean and Dublin Road water plants. These new technologies, including ozone and biologically active carbon filtration, will add to our treatment capabilities and also combat any taste and odor aspects that can occur with varied blooms, toxic or otherwise.

Activated carbon filters, such as those in a "Brita" water pitcher may help. A filter with granular activated carbon (GAC) is an option to remove chemicals that give objectionable odors or tastes to water such as hydrogen sulfide (rotten eggs odor) or chlorine.

While some issues of concern are often related to upstream agricultural activity, we all play a role in water protection.

Some simple steps you can take at home to help protect our water source include: limiting lawn chemicals, picking up pet waste, reporting suspected hazardous spills on waterways, disposing of household hazardous waste properly, maintaining septic tank systems and fixing automotive leaks. Planting trees and deep rooted native plants can aid in naturally filtering pollutants that are often carried in stormwater that washes over the land as it travels to the nearest waterway.

Please visit Keep It Clean for more information on how you can help Keep It Clean.

The EPA requires that all water utilities distribute annual reports on source and treated water quality to their customers.

Columbus not only meets all state and federal water standards set forth by the Safe Drinking Water Act, but often exceeds them. These reports are mailed to customers in June and can also be viewed on our Web site; look for the Consumer Confidence Report. Additional printed copies can be obtained by calling Customer Service at 614-645-8276 (weekdays 7 am - 6 pm) or email: utilityleadrep@columbus.gov.