09/09/2026
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We are aware that some customers throughout our surface water service area (Hampton, Poquoson, York, and Newport News) have recently noticed an earthy or musty taste or smell in their drinking water. Our team is actively monitoring feedback, and Waterworks staff have already adjusted treatment processes, including increasing ozone levels at our treatment facility.
These taste and odor issues occasionally occur in surface water sources like reservoirs, especially during seasonal environmental changes. They are commonly caused by naturally occurring organic compounds—most often MIB (2‑methylisoborneol) and geosmin. While these compounds can create noticeable tastes or odors even at extremely low levels, they are not harmful to humans and do not affect water safety.
Ozone is one of the most effective treatments for reducing MIB and geosmin, and we are continuing to optimize our processes to address the issue as quickly as possible.
If you experience water quality concerns, please contact Newport News Waterworks Customer Service at (757) 926‑1000 or [email protected] so we can document your location and respond appropriately.
Thank you for your patience as we work to remove abnormal tastes and odors from your drinking water.
