Water Utilities

Water Quality

Taste and Odor Problems – From time to time we receive a complaint of a bad taste or odor in the water. When this happens we encourage you to call the Water Department (318-251-8611, 7:00 to 3:30, Mon. thru Fri.) and we will assist in trying to determine the source of the problem. If the problem is associated with a line break, construction activity, or a dead-end main or end-of-line connection it can most often be alleviated by having our personnel flush the main. Most often, however, the source of odors can be attributed to a reaction of naturally occurring sulfates and micro-organisms in the water that can create hydrogen sulfate, or a “rotten egg” smell. This reaction takes place in water heaters where the temperature range is conducive to the growth of a strain of sulfur-reducing bacteria called desulfovibrio. This problem can most often be cured by flushing and chlorinating your water heater and plumbing lines. Click the link provided to help with the identification and possible solutions to the problem. If you still need assistance we will be happy to dispatch someone to help identify the source of the problem.

Water Quality Reports - As part of our compliance with all state and federal drinking water laws the City of Ruston prepares a Water Quality Report each year. You can access these reports below.