1. CEW&SA has been experiencing taste and odor issues caused by Geosmin and MIB which are naturally occurring compounds that are found in Lake Martin, our water source. Research has shown that these compounds are not harmful for consumption but can be very unpleasant. Through the years CEW&SA has tried different treatment options such as Powder Activated Carbon (PAC) and Copper Sulfate, but none have effectively removed the compounds to levels where they can no longer be detected by the consumer. In 2024 the Board of Directors approved for CEW&SA to move forward on designing a Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) filter system that will remove the compounds. Prior to the approval, CEW&SA has conducted pilot studies with GAC drums to determine its effectiveness and the results showed that GAC will remove the compounds to levels that should not be detected during consumption.
CEW&SA has contracted with Ardurra, who has completed the design of the project and will be ready for bids in the first quarter of 2025. Currently CEW&SA has submitted an application to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management's (ADEM) State Revolving Fund for possible grant funding to help offset the costs of the project. Once a determination has been made by ADEM, CEW&SA will then decide on how to move forward with the project. It is estimated that the project construction would be completed in approximately 10 months.
