Drinking Water Taste and Odour Issues - Geosmin

To the residents of the Union Water Supply System, over the past two (2) weeks there have been several taste and odour complaints, rest assured that your drinking water continues to be safe.  The musty taste in the water is caused by a naturally occurring compound called Geosmin.  This compound does not pose a health risk.  To read more of this notification please click the tab below. 

Taste and Odour Issues - Geosmin

Lake Erie Harmful Algae Bloom (HAB) Forecast

The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Service NCCOS provides a forecast of the Microcystis harmful algal blooms (HABs) in Lake Erie several times a week during the warmer months of the year. HAB forecasts are based on understanding the causes of HABs and how they respond to changing weather and ocean conditions. The other critical component of a HAB forecast is the ability to routinely and remotely detect HABs, their toxins, and environmental conditions that foster blooms and enhance their toxicity. The 2025 seasonal postings have now commenced again.  UWSS Inc. will be posting regular results, provided by NCCOS.  

 

Harmful Algae Booms Bulletins 2025 Season

The NCCOS is predicting a mild to moderate HAB season, however, as conditions change and evolve, their prediction can be adjusted. Their current, mild to moderate assessment, is in part, due to the relatively dry conditions so far this spring.  UWSS Inc. works diligently to ensure that we have the most up to date information and monitors changing algae levels closely.  UWSS Inc. will work to update this page as information becomes available.

The CBC posted an article, May 15, 2025, on Harmful Algae Blooms, which provides a good overall summary of why testing continues in Lake Erie.

Contact Us

Union Water Supply System

1615 Union Ave., Box 340
Ruthven, Ontario
N0P 2G0
Phone: 519-326-1668

Between 8:30 to 4:30 pm Monday thru Friday.

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,
365 days a year to answer any questions,
Call: 519-326-4447

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