Residents of Rhame and Scranton have noticed something strange with their tap water in the recent weeks, the unappealing results of an annual natural process at the water’s source.
By BRYCE MARTIN
Pioneer Editor | [email protected]
Residents of Rhame and Scranton have noticed something strange with their tap water in the recent weeks, the unappealing results of an annual natural process at the water’s source.
Southwest Water Authority, which provides the primary water supply for the cities of Rhame and Scranton, released a statement this week detailing the cause of the odor and cloudiness in its customers’ drinking water.
The musty or “earthy” smell is a result of the turning over of Lake Sakakawea, the source water for Southwest Water. In this yearly process, the water actually flips as surface temperatures cool and winds blow.
When that occurs there is a temporary taste and odor issue.
“Residents are noticing that in their drinking water,” said Margie Russ, Rhame city auditor.
While it may be unpleasant, the water is harmless if consumed.
Southwest Water pretreats the water with sodium permanganate, an effective oxidizing agent that reduces taste and odor in water.
The water will clear up on its own as Lake Sakakawea stabilizes, according to the water supplier.
Customers can expect the odor to last as long as one to two weeks. That includes the time it takes to displace the water currently in pipelines and reservoirs.
