After a year of testing, the City of Winnipeg will begin using a new product in its water treatment process to reduce the occurrence of discoloured water.
The city is switching out the coagulant it uses — a product that helps particles in water stick together for easier flow — from ferric chloride to ferric sulfate.
“We expect discoloured water events to decline in 2019 compared to previous years; however, it is difficult to predict how long it will take to see a major reduction,” said Tim Shanks, manager of water services.
“We thank Winnipeggers for their patience as we work towards implementing this change.”
The change, which takes effect at the end of this year, comes as a final recommendation in a 2013 consultant’s report on discoloured water.
A report on the change will be presented to the Standing Police Committee on Water and Waste, Riverbank Management and the Environment on November 22.
The city says residents won’t notice anything different about their tap water as a result of the switch. Those who experience discoloured water are reminded to contact 311.
