Shreveport Water Department Tackles Recent Quality Issues with New Improvement Plans

SHREVEPORT, La. (KSLA) - INFORMATION SUPPLIED BY THE SHREVEPORT WATER AND SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT:

In the last year, the City of Shreveport’s Water and Sewerage department encountered two major hurdles affecting our community’s water quality: increased manganese concentrations throughout the summer of 2024 and an unforeseen algae outbreak during the winter of 2024. We recognize the distress these incidents brought upon our citizens and aim to offer clarity regarding what transpired as well as outline measures being taken to avoid such problems in the future.

During the summer of 2024, locals noticed discolored water, which was eventually linked to an increase in naturally present manganese. Although the amounts found were harmless from a health perspective, they resulted in noticeable alterations in the water’s hue and sparked legitimate worries regarding its safety. Further investigation determined that this rise in manganese stemmed from shifts in water composition triggered by elevated temperatures and specific reservoir circumstances.

Later, when the winter temperatures rose, an algae surge caused a discernible musty flavor and aroma in the tap water. Although the water was still safe for consumption, the shift in taste and scent resulted in understandable grievances and worries from customers.

Following these incidents, the Department has introduced multiple significant enhancements to bolster our treatment processes and enhance water quality for the future:

• We installed a new faulty chlorine dioxide generator and refurbished a second one to enhance oxidation processes at the facility.
• We substituted the intake air compressor, an essential component in facilitating the oxidation of metals and organic materials during the treatment procedure.
• The staff rapidly refurbished the outdated carbon supply system—the primary method for eliminating excess Geosmin, which causes the unpleasant earthy flavor and smell. At present, we are undertaking an upgrade and replacement of this carbon delivery apparatus.
• We've improved our manganese monitoring program to gain a deeper understanding of the various types of manganese in the source water and adjust our treatment processes accordingly, employing the most suitable methods for each type.

“Issues have motivated us to learn and enhance our infrastructure so as to deliver top-notch potable water to all residents,” stated Acting Water and Sewerage Administrator Brandon Snead. “These incidents were treated with utmost seriousness; consequently, our crew has strived tirelessly to pinpoint root causes, collaborate with external specialists, and introduce measures bound to yield positive outcomes. Our aim isn’t merely problem resolution but proactive prevention,” he continued.

The Water and Sewerage Department is dedicated to keeping open lines of communication with local residents and persistently funding enhancements that ensure secure, dependable water supply for Shreveport.