ON 10/31/2024, MUPB received waters from the licking river that contained excessively high levels of dissolved manganese and iron from their source water, which can be typical for this time of year. It is naturally occurring mineral found in groundwater, soil, rocks, and surface water. The MUPB treatment plant uses a chemical process to oxidize
and then filter out this mineral but can be difficult to treat when levels spike.
Due to this event, manganese levels from the water treatment plant exceeded the State's Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level of 0.05 mg/ L for a short period of time. As a result, brown tinted water was distributed in our system. Short term exposure does not pose a health but staining of household plumbing/fixtures or clothes can occur. They have since adjusted the treatment process to correct the issue and are now producing water that meets the Secondary MCL for manganese.
We will flushing the water system for the next 24-48 hours to ensure the quality of water is restored. If you continue to experience discoloration, as an added measure, you are encouraged to flush your internal plumbing fixtures including your hot water heater.
If you have any questions, please contact our office at 606-784-9818
Thank you,