AUBURN, Ala.- The Auburn Water Works Board has received reports from some customers who have noticed off flavor tastes and odors in their water, sometimes described as earthy or musty. This is being caused by algae blooms in Saugahatchee Lake, which is one of the City’s water sources. While customers may experience off tastes and odors, the water is safe to drink and meets all regulatory requirements.
Since Saugahatchee Lake is just one of the City’s water sources, the algae bloom affects the eastern and northern sections of town that are supplemented with water from Opelika Utilities. Algae blooms are most common from May to October, and the Auburn Water Works Board limits its purchase of water from Opelika Water Works’ Saugahatchee Water Treatment Plant as much as possible when blooms occur.
The board apologizes for any inconvenience these issues may cause its customers. Over the last few years, the board has increased the capacity of Auburn’s main water source, Lake Ogletree, by constructing a new spillway, and it is working on additional water sources and means to help lessen such issues in the future. In the meantime, any water concerns can be reported at (334) 501-3050.