Base water update Published Feb. 26, 2009 60th Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Travis Water Distribution System has recently received complaints describing the tap water as having an odor and an "earthy" or "musty" taste. The situation first came to light Feb. 20, when base personnel were contacted about taste and odor problems from Sacramento Delta water treated at the Vallejo Water Treatment Plant. The base also receives water from Lake Berryessa and water wells. After receiving the complaints, the Vallejo Water Treatment Plant, which treats and supplies water to Travis, switched the water source from Sacramento Delta to Lake Berryessa. The Vallejo Water Treatment Plant was using Delta water in order to conserve water storage in Lake Berryessa. Runoff during the recent series of storms caused an increased in the concentration of organic carbon in the Delta water. Organic carbon is decaying organic material such as leaves and plants. During the treatment, the increased organic carbon apparently affected the water's taste and order. "Although there is a taste and odor issue, it does not pose a health concern," said Lt. Col. Brian Sassaman, Travis Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight chief. "Travis' water quality meets all health and safety standards set by the State of California. The water is safe to drink." The 60th Civil Engineering Squadron anticipates the issue will be resolved as the rains subside and the carbon material is flushed out of the base waste lines. Meanwhile, Civil Engineering and Bioenvironmental Engineering personnel continue to take necessary steps to monitor and test the quality of the water to ensure the water is safe to drink. Bioenvironmental engineering suggests that residents let the water run for at least 60 seconds before use to help flush the organic material that may exist in the water lines." Residents who may have additional questions are encouraged to call bioenvironmental engineering at 423-5490.