The City of West Columbia Riverside Water Treatment Facility is aware of concerns about a taste and odor in the drinking water. The water supply has been thoroughly tested and meets all SCDHEC standards. The water distributed by the Riverside Water Treatment Facility is safe to drink. The issue is aesthetic and not a water quality concern.

The water coming into the Congaree River has increased levels of organic compounds, which can cause an earthy, musty taste, and odor in the water.

The City of West Columbia is working tirelessly to mitigate the effect of the increased organic compounds serving as a contributing factor of taste and odor in the drinking water. We are committed to providing safe drinking water for all customers and will continue to work diligently to address consumers’ taste and odor concerns.

If customers do experience a change in their water, they may report concerns to customer service at City Hall between 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, at 803-791-1880.

The attached map shows the area where customers may notice a change in taste and odor.