Discolored Water Safe for Consumption 
August 6, 2002

Citizens in the southern and central part of Greensboro may have noticed discolored water flowing from their taps in the past few days. Water Resources officials are aware of the problem, which is caused by manganese, a chemical component of all lake waters. Manganese levels have increased due to the hot weather and current low lake levels. While the problem has been corrected, it may take a few days before all discolored water has moved through the system. The discolored water is safe for consumption and all other uses.

Under normal conditions, Water Resources would flush the system to move the discolored water out of the pipes, however, with the current water shortage - and the fact that the water is perfectly safe to drink - they have chosen not to do so.

Manganese may stain clothes and porcelain fixtures, especially commodes, since contact time with colored water in the bowl is longer. This staining may give otherwise clear water a colored or dingy appearance. Cleaning products are available to remove stains.

Customers in the center city should see their water clear up within a day or two, while it will take two to three days before water improvements are seen on the outskirts of the distribution system. Allan Williams, Water Resources Director, apologizes for the inconvenience to citizens but emphasizes that the discoloration is harmless.