06/15/2026
UPDATE ON TASTE AND ODOR PROBLEMS IN IONE DRINKING WATER --
Amador Water Agency operations and field staff have taken multiple steps to correct recent taste and odor problems in the Ione drinking water. The unpleasant, but never unsafe, condition was caused by naturally-occurring plant growth in the Ione Reservoir.
The algae produces a distinct earthy odor that occurs in drinking water worldwide. It is not harmful to people or animals, but the human nose is extremely sensitive to the odor. It’s been a stubborn problem at the Ione Reservoir and an aggravation for Ione customers.
This year’s bloom came on quite suddenly due to hot weather quickly following a mild spring. Water at the bottom of the raw water reservoir that supplies Ione’s water supply quickly warmed, cool water rose to the top, and the water supply essentially “flipped” in the reservoir. This can often lead to the formation of elevated levels of taste and odor.
There are treatment processes in place to control taste and odor at the Ione Treatment Plant; however, water chemistry is a delicate balance and every year new organics present themselves. When operators noticed higher than normal odors in the raw supply, adjustments were made to address the issue. However, some water with elevated taste and odor did enter the distribution system in Ione.
Is the water in Ione safe to drink? Yes! There is no health risk associated with this type of taste and odor. Treated water is tested daily and continues to meet all requirements for safe drinking water.
AWA has taken several steps to clear up the taste and odor problems:
• Operators will continue to closely monitor the Ione Reservoir. Daily inspections include checks for odor.
• Staff is prepared to make adjustments to the treatment plant to reduce any future detected taste and odor in the raw water supply.
• Water Distribution System operators have been out in Ione neighborhoods, flushing distribution lines to optimize the quality of the water within the system.
Please report any unusual changes in your drinking water to AWA Customer Service at 209-223-3018 so that potential problems can be addressed quickly.
