Published on July 20, 2025 5:10 pm
Last Updated on July 20, 2025 5:11 pm
The DO NOT DRINK Order that was issued on July 15 for the City of Mattoon has now been LIFTED.
o Samples collected on July 15th showed harmful algal bloom neurological toxin in the drinking water at .385 parts per billion (ppb) which is above the EPA recommended advisory levels of .30 ppb. Samples collected on July 16th showed harmful algal bloom neurological toxin in the drinking water at .215 ppb, which is under the EPA recommended advisory levels of .30 ppb. Samples collected on July 17th showed harmful algal bloom neurological toxin in the drinking water at .058 ppb, which is considered non-detect under the EPA recommended advisory levels of .30 ppb. Samples collected on July 18th showed harmful algal bloom neurological toxin in the drinking water at .10 ppb, which is considered non-detect under the EPA recommended advisory levels of .30 ppb.
With three consecutive days of results under the EPA’s advisory levels of .30 ppb, the DO NOT DRINK Order has been LIFTED.
WHAT ACTIONS DID THE CITY OF MATTOON TAKE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM?
The City of Mattoon took the following actions to reduce harmful algal bloom neurological toxin levels:
o Met with a consultant who recommended both short-term and long-term solutions.
o Increased the Powder-Activated Carbon (PAC).
o Increased chlorine feed rates.
o Performed directional flushing of distribution system based on IEPA recommendations.
o Developing long-term treatment options, including lake and plant treatment.
WHAT SHOULD I DO?
o Everyone may resume using the tap water for all uses.
o Flush all cold-water lines for 5–10 minutes.
o Flush hot water lines separately for 5–10 minutes.
o IEPA recommends discarding all ice and replacing water filters.
