CASE STUDIES
Contra Costa Water District
A proactive source water management program improved treatment efficiency, reduced algae-related impacts, and delivered more consistent water quality performance.
THE CHALLENGE
Algae Blooms Increased Costs and Operational Complexity
Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) manages a complex water treatment system in California that is heavily impacted by seasonal algae blooms, taste-and-odor compounds, and rising treatment costs. The district relies on multiple treatment processes to maintain water quality and regulatory compliance for its customers.
Seasonal phytoplankton, diatoms, and cyanobacteria created recurring taste-and-odor events, filter inefficiencies, higher chemical demand, and increased customer complaints. At the same time, costs for ozone, alum, pH adjustment chemicals, and sludge handling continued to rise, creating pressure to find a more predictable and cost-effective treatment strategy.
Seasonal phytoplankton, diatoms, and cyanobacteria created recurring taste-and-odor events, filter inefficiencies, higher chemical demand, and increased customer complaints. At the same time, costs for ozone, alum, pH adjustment chemicals, and sludge handling continued to rise, creating pressure to find a more predictable and cost-effective treatment strategy.
THE APPROACH
Continuous Source Water Treatment with EarthTec®
CCWD evaluated EarthTec®, a proprietary ionic copper algaecide and water quality enhancer, to improve algae control and reduce treatment demands throughout the treatment process. After successful trial results, the district implemented a continuous 24/7 treatment program whenever water temperatures exceeded 50°F.
The strategy focused on improving source water quality before algae-related issues could impact downstream treatment processes. By reducing algal populations at the source, the district sought to improve settling performance, reduce chemical use, stabilize operations, and improve overall water quality.
The strategy focused on improving source water quality before algae-related issues could impact downstream treatment processes. By reducing algal populations at the source, the district sought to improve settling performance, reduce chemical use, stabilize operations, and improve overall water quality.
Lower Treatment Costs and Improved Water Quality
EarthTec® significantly reduced algal populations, improved treatment performance, and helped eliminate customer taste-and-odor complaints while lowering operational demands.
+
90
%
REDUCTION IN ALGAL BIOMASS
0
TASTE-AND-ODOR COMPLAINTS IN SEASON
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