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;s consulting engineering firm, Ardurra, has completed the design of the project. 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 and is hopeful that a determination will be announced soon. CEW&SA has received bids for the GAC and the filtration vessels and the winning bidder Calgon has begun the process to procure the materials. It has been stated that the lead time is long but it is anticipated to be on site by Spring 2026. Currently CEW&SA is advertising for bids for a contractor and various items necessary for construction, with the bid openings scheduled for August 21, 2025. CEW&SA is projecting to have the project completed by the Summer of 2026.
