October 2, 2020

Dear Neighbor:

The City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management (DWM) assesses its drinking water treatment processes as part of our ongoing mission to “ensure treatment and delivery of high quality drinking water.” Since the early 1900s, chlorine has widely been used in the water purification process.

However, Disinfection By-Products (DBPs) form when chlorine meets with natural organic material. In the water treatment process this happens during the “pre-treatment” stage prior to the raw (untreated) water from the Chattahoochee River entering the treatment plants. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set standards for maximum concentrations of DBPs in drinking water to protect the public. DWM routinely monitors and tests for DBPs to ensure that levels are below the limits set by the EPA.

Recognizing the critical importance of water, DWM strives to go above the regulatory standards to improve the safety of its drinking water. Based upon extensive studies and guidance from the EPA and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, use of a disinfectant that minimizes the formation of by-products is recommended. In particular, sodium permanganate is a proven alternative to chlorine during the pre-treatment process that reduces the formation of DBPs and aids in keeping the water distribution system clean and free of contaminants.

During this time, DWM will be determining the effectiveness of sodium permanganate in reducing the formation of DBPs. Assessments like this keep our water amongst the most effectively treated and safest in the country, and allow us to continue providing you with clean, reliable drinking water. In the unlikely event that you observe any changes in water quality or color, or you have additional questions, please contact Public Information Officer, Kinesia Cato at 404-546-3226 or kcato@atlantaga.gov.

Thank you,

The Department of Watershed Management