Bloomington residents may experience temporarily discolored tap water, according to a Friday email from IU Housing Operations.
The discoloration is temporary, and Bloomington’s drinking water remains safe to drink, the email read.
This discoloration is due to the city drawing water from a lower level of the Monroe Reservoir, which has higher levels of manganese, a naturally occurring mineral. Manganese can impact water appearance and taste, but it does not pose a health risk at its currently observed levels, according to a Tuesday City of Bloomington news release.
“Bloomington’s drinking water remains safe to drink,” the email read. “Water samples collected throughout the distribution system continue to meet applicable U.S. Environmental Protection Agency health advisory levels.”
The City of Bloomington advised residents to run cold water from a faucet for several minutes to help clear their plumbing and recommended replacing their water pitchers and bottle filters more frequently if needed until conditions return to normal. If discoloration continues after these efforts, residents are encouraged to email wq@bloomington.in.gov with their name and address.
This is not the first time Bloomington has dealt with issues regarding the water's appearance, smell and taste. Odor and taste concerns are a periodic concern due to late summer algae blooms in Monroe Lake.
The City of Bloomington is conducting additional hydrant flushing and enhanced monitoring throughout the water system to improve water clarity and ensure continued safety, according to the news release.
For more information, contact Justin Meschter, water quality coordinator at City of Bloomington Utilities.
