Shreveport addresses water quality challenges with new measures

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — The City of Shreveport’s Department of Water and Sewerage is addressing key water quality challenges.

Over the past year, Shreveport has faced several challenges that have impacted water quality in the area, including elevated manganese levels and an unexpected algal bloom. Officials want to acknowledge the frustration these events caused for the community and provide some transparency.

According to a press release, the department has implemented several key improvements to strengthen treatment systems and improve water quality, which include:

• We replaced a faulty chlorine dioxide generator and rehabbed a second generator to
  improve oxidation at the plant.
• We replaced the intake air compressor, which plays a vital role in helping oxidize metals
  and organics in the treatment process.
• Staff quickly rehabbed the old carbon feed system—carbon is the most effective way to
  absorb and remove the effects of excess Geosmin (the compound responsible for the
  earthy taste and odor). We are currently in the process of upgrading and replacing this
  carbon feed equipment.
• We’ve enhanced our manganese monitoring program to better understand the different
  forms of manganese present in the raw water and adapt our treatment process
  accordingly—using the most effective techniques for each form.

“We are committed to learning from these challenges and improving our systems to ensure
high-quality drinking water for every resident,” said Interim Water and Sewerage Director
Brandon Snead. He noted that his team is not only focused on solving problems, but they’re working to prevent them as well.

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