WASHINGTON - A number of complaints about the taste and odor of drinking water have been received by Arlington County Environmental Services, the City of Falls Church Environmental Services and the D.C. Water and Sewer Authority.

“We have tested the water and it is safe to drink and meets all regulatory requirements for safe drinking water,” said Thomas P. Jacobus, General Manager of the Washington Aqueduct, the organization responsible for the water supply. “We believe the changes in taste and odor can be attributed to the low river levels and the high water temperature of the Potomac River that is the source of local drinking water.”

To adjust to the conditions resulting in odor and taste changes, the Washington Aqueduct began powder activated carbon treatment of the drinking water on Monday. This works like a “charcoal filter” at the beginning of the water treatment process and absorbs odors that may be present.

“The aesthetic properties of the water are important,” Jacobus said. “Washington Aqueduct will continue to carefully monitor the water quality and make any adjustments necessary to assure that the taste and odor issues are addressed.”

Water quality concerns may be addressed to Washington Aqueduct at 202-764-0019; to D.C. Water and Sewer Authority at 202-612-3400; to Arlington County Environmental Services at 703-228-6555; and to Falls Church Environmental Services at 703-248-5071.