Drinking Water Taste and Odor Advisory for Martinez Residents
Martinez Reservoir, which stores water for the City of Martinez and is operated by the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD), recently experienced an algae bloom. Algae blooms tend to occur during the warm summer months. Although non-harmful, by-products of this algae bloom have created an unpleasant taste and odor in the stored water. It is important for residents to know that the algae does not present health or safety issues. Steps have been taken by both the City and CCWD to address the problem. CCWD has treated the source water to bring the algae under control, and the City has adjusted the treatment process to control taste and odor in customers’ drinking water. Over a short period of time, this two-pronged approach is expected to resolve the issues.
These algal tastes and odors are purely aesthetic and pose no health risks. These tastes and odors are more noticable in hot water, rather than cold. To reduce unpleasant taste and odor for drinking, fill a pitcher and chill the water. This practice also conserves water by avoiding running water through the tap until it is cold.
