Macon Water Authority addresses customer concerns about water taste

MWA says the flavor should dissipate as seasonal conditions stabilize.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Macon Water Authority says recent reports of an earthy or “dirt-like” taste in some customers’ tap water do not indicate any safety issues, and that the water remains safe to drink and continues to meet all state and federal standards.

According to the MWA, staff members conduct roughly 200 water quality tests each day to monitor the system and ensure the water delivered to homes and businesses remains clean and reliable.

The change in taste comes after several weeks of increased fire activity across Bibb County. Approximately 40 fires have been reported in recent weeks, leading to heavy use of fire hydrants. That sudden change in water flow can stir up harmless minerals or sediments in water lines, which may temporarily affect taste or odor in certain neighborhoods.

In addition, seasonal changes at Javors Lucas Lake — the Authority’s primary source of drinking water — are currently causing a natural “lake turnover.” During turnover, water layers mix and release organic compounds such as geosmin and MIB. These compounds are naturally occurring and can create an earthy flavor even in extremely small amounts, but do not impact water safety.

MWA engineers and water quality staff used internal GIS mapping tools to compare taste reports with recent fire activity, finding many of the reports clustered in the Rueben and Town Creek pressure zones — areas that also saw multiple fires. The Authority says this supports its conclusion that the taste change is related to temporary system disturbances rather than any contamination or quality issue.

“Our top priority is ensuring the safety and trust of our customers,” said Rachad Hollis, Communications Specialist for MWA. “Even during periods of high demand, such as the recent increase in fire activity, our daily testing confirms that MWA water remains safe and our system continues to perform as designed, protecting both public health and public safety.”

MWA continues to coordinate with the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department to maintain strong water pressure and ensure reliable firefighting capabilities. That collaboration helps the county maintain its Class 1 ISO Fire Protection Rating — the highest possible.

Customers who notice an earthy taste are encouraged to refrigerate their water or use a home filter if desired. MWA says the flavor should dissipate as seasonal conditions stabilize.

For questions or to report concerns, contact the MWA Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Department at 478-464-5678 or visit www.maconwater.org