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Potable Water |
| Reservoirs |
Ponds |
Conveyance
Systems | |
 Drinking water
reservoirs are a vital component of many populated
areas. They are typically designed by damming an
existing river in a valley or similar basin. The
impoundment floods the basin allowing large amounts of
water to be held in reserve for nearby or distant
populations. Many different variables can affect the
quality of the reserved water as it awaits delivery and
ultimate use. Fluctuating water levels, fluctuating
water temperatures, stagnation, nutrient influxes from
non-point source pollution (i.e. fertilizer or
agricultural runoff), as well as other factors can have
a negative impact on these waters.
A common
natural “contaminant” to these surface water drinking
suppliesis algae. Problems associated with this growth
include discoloration, foulodors, unpleasant tastes and
clogged filters. Shortened filter runs requiring
frequent backwashes reduce the efficiency of water
treatment plants, thus raising the cost of water to the
consumer. Chlorinating to remove algae is costly, as is
carbon filtration to remove off flavors and odors. In
addition, there is evidence that the reaction of
chlorine with algae can form trihalomethanes (THM’s),
suspected carcinogens. Treatment for algal control
within the reservoir itself is often the most economical
and effective means of eliminating these
problems. | |
Potable Water: Taste and Odor Problems
Algae Challenge
Algae Challenge (PDF) |
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