Lakes of Muirfield

A few factors affecting the taste and odour of water can be attributed to: 

Geosmin & MIB (2-methylisoborneol) 
Geosmin & MIB are harmless, naturally occurring organic compounds that can cause a temporary, earthy or musty taste and odour in the water, typically during late summer and early fall. While the presence of geosmin & MIB can be noticeable by some individuals due to its strong scent (detectable even at levels as low as five four parts per trillion), the water remains safe to drink. Specialized testing conducted at the Kaizen Labs has shown that Muirfield treated water contains trace amounts of geosmin & MIB at detectable levels. 

If you are sensitive to the smell or taste of geosmin & MIB, we recommend using an activated charcoal filter (e.g., Brita filter) or keeping a pitcher of water with lemon slices in the fridge to help reduce the effects. These changes will diminish as the geosmin levels in the water drop. 

 Manganese in Water 
Manganese is an essential nutrient found naturally in the environment, and is present in air, food, water, soil, and rocks. The trace amounts of manganese found in Muirfield comes from the Bow River when the water dissolves minerals from the rocks and soil in the mountains.  While the levels of manganese in Muirfield’s water are generally low, they may sometimes exceed aesthetic guidelines, especially during distribution system fluctuations. 

To help reduce manganese concentrations in the distribution system, the County aerates the raw water reservoirs and conducts unidirectional flushing, which may temporarily worsen water quality before improvements are seen.  

Milky or Cloudy Water 
If your water appears milky or cloudy, it is likely due to air bubbles. This often happens in the winter when the water is colder, and the air is trapped. These bubbles pose no health risk; the water will clear if left to sit. 

Stale-Tasting Water 
If your water tastes stale, it may be because faucets have not been used recently. Running the cold water tap briefly will refresh the water supply from the main and restore the taste.  

Chlorine Smell 
In some situations, such as spring runoff, the taste or smell of chlorine in the water may increase as the County adjusts treatment to ensure continued safety. Store a water container in the fridge overnight if the chlorine taste or smell is unpleasant. The chlorine will dissipate, improving the taste for drinking. 

 CURRENT STEPS BEING TAKEN 

Muirfield Aeration Upgrade at Raw Water Reservoir 
The County is upgrading the aeration systems in the raw water reservoirs to improve circulation and oxygen levels, helping support better raw water quality and reduce conditions that can contribute to seasonal taste and odour concerns. 

UV System Upgrade at the Water Treatment Plant 
The County is upgrading the UV disinfection system at the Muirfield Water Treatment Plant to improve system reliability and help ensure continued compliance with drinking water treatment requirements. 

Coordination with the WID on Water Intake Timing 
The County is working with the WID to better coordinate when the raw water reservoirs are filled, allowing Muirfield to take advantage of periods when higher-quality source water is available.