AWWA WQTC56971

A river surface water source high in total organic carbon (TOC) and algae, and variable in turbidity was evaluated to assess the use of various drinking water treatment technologies. The river source supplied terminal reservoirs that generated large quantities of algae and associated TOC and disinfection byproduct (DBP) precursors. The studies conducted included the evaluation of membrane treatment, dissolved air flotation followed by filtration, and paper evaluation of a reservoir cover to inhibit algae growth. The results of the study showed that the use of dissolved air flotation (DAF) or membranes could provide adequate treatment for TOC and DBP control. DAF and filtration was preferred in order to maintain granular filtration removal of manganese with pre-filter chlorination. Cleaning of the membranes was an operational concern due to downtime. Data on TOC, DBPs, turbidity, and particle performance are presented. The use of a cover to control terminal reservoir algae growth was also considered a possible viable pretreatment option and was recommended to control algae growth. Includes tables, figures.