Water Quality Problem: Turbidity

The choice you have selected indicates a water supply use impairment or threat.

To control unacceptable turbidity levels, you must identify the turbidity constituents as non-algal or algal.

1. NON-ALGAL constituents

Sediment
- Suspended sediment may:
  - interfere with the potable water treatment process
  - harbor pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and protozoans
  - decrease the capacity of your water body
If you believe sediment is your primary turbidity problem, please click here.
Organic Matter
- Organic matter may:
  - harbor pathogenic bacteria,viruses, and protozoans
  - cause dissolved oxygen depletion during the degradation process
  - may impart harmless color to the water when degraded (tannins, humic acids, and humates; decaying phytoplankton and other aquatic plants)
If you believe organic matter is causing your problem, please click here.
2. ALGAL constituents

Elevated nutrient levels in your water resource may stimulate algal growth. Certain algal species are capable of producing toxins that may be harmful to humans if ingested in high concentrations. If you wish to investigate the relationship between nutrients and algal growth, please click here.

? Information on Turbidity
? Information on Sediment
? Information on Natural Organics
? Information on Algae

NCSU Water Quality Group

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