We are actively working with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ) to address the recent water discoloration issue affecting our system. Based on preliminary assessments, the discoloration is likely caused by elevated levels of naturally occurring iron or manganese in the raw water supply.
We have submitted water samples for laboratory analysis and expect to receive the results by the end of the day on Monday. These results will help us determine the appropriate dosage of potassium permanganate, a treatment chemical used to remove iron and manganese, which we plan to incorporate into our water treatment process. To do so, we are currently procuring the necessary chemical and equipment.
It's important to note that accurate dosing is critical-adding too much potassium permanganate can result in a temporary purple tint in the water. Therefore, we must wait for the test results before proceeding.
At this time, we do not have a definitive timeline for full resolution, but we will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
Please be assured that the water remains safe to drink. Iron and manganese are aesthetic issues and do not pose a health risk, although they may cause staining on laundry or fixtures.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to resolve this issue.