press release

May 17, 2005

SOURCE WATER WILL BE BLENDED TO REDUCE SEASONAL TASTE AND ODOR ISSUES

Residents of Chula Vista, National City and Bonita may have noticed an "earthy" or "musty" odor coming from their tap water. The water is safe for drinking and poses no health risk.

Sweetwater Reservoir is experiencing a naturally occurring algae bloom, causing the "earthy" odor. Even after water is treated and disinfected, these odors may persist.

Sweetwater Authority is blending reservoir water with imported water to reduce taste and odor problems.

Sweetwater Authority will continue to monitor this situation closely and take necessary measures to minimize impacts from the algae bloom.

Sweetwater Authority customers can call our lab at (619) 409-6812 or (619) 409-6813 or check our website at www.sweetwater.org if they have questions or concerns about their water.

Sweetwater Authority provides public water service to 177,000 residents of Chula Vista, National City and Bonita.