CADIZ, Ohio — Village officials say naturally occurring manganese in Tappan Lake has been identified as the primary cause of the discolored, foul-smelling water that has frustrated Cadiz residents for more than a year.
The issue was the focus of a packed village meeting Thursday, where residents gathered to seek answers as the community continues to deal with water quality concerns and a precautionary boil advisory.
Water Plant Operator Jim Jenkins told those in attendance that testing revealed elevated manganese levels entering the village’s water treatment plant. While officials say the mineral is not present at levels considered harmful to human health, it reacts with chlorine during the treatment process, causing the brown discoloration, unpleasant odor and residue many residents have reported.
Jenkins explained that manganese has not historically been a concern for Cadiz because the village draws its water from Tappan Lake, a surface water source where elevated levels had not previously been detected. The issue came to light after operators noticed the plant’s clear well changing color and conducted additional testing.
Village officials said crews have been working around the clock to adjust the treatment process in an effort to reduce the effects, although some manganese continues to make its way through the system.
Officials also emphasized that the current boil advisory is precautionary and is unrelated to the manganese itself. According to the village, routine bacterial testing has found no contamination in the water supply.
Residents also raised concerns about unusually high water bills, stained plumbing fixtures and potential damage to appliances. Mayor R. Kevin Jones acknowledged those concerns and said village officials are exploring options to provide relief for residents, though no formal plan has been approved.
Looking ahead, Jenkins said the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has encouraged Cadiz to pursue a connection with a neighboring water system to improve long-term reliability. One option under consideration would connect the village to the Tri-County water system through Martins Ferry, with officials saying grant funding may be available to cover much of the project’s cost.
Some council members questioned whether relying on another water provider could eventually result in higher rates for residents, and discussions about the proposal are expected to continue.
Village officials said they will continue monitoring water quality while working with state regulators to identify both short-term solutions and long-term improvements to the system.
