Algae Bloom In Sweetwater Reservoir Blamed For Taste, Odor Problems

An algae bloom in the Sweetwater Reservoir has given water coming out of taps in the South Bay a funny taste and smell. Since May, dozens of Sweetwater Authority customers have called in to complain about unpleasant tasting and smelling water. Officials figured out this month that algae in the reservoir was causing the musty smell and earthy taste, and said an organic compound called geosmin was to blame. Chula Vista resident Katherine Hoyt said she first noticed an issue with the water in her Congregational Tower apartment in late May.