Latest on smell and taste issues with Pioneer water

South Carolina DHEC says Pioneer Rural Water customers are noticing an “earthy” taste and smell in water produced by Pioneer’s new plant. But Terry Pruitt, the Pioneer manager, says test results show the water continues to be safe to consume and, so far, complaints have been voiced by only three percent of the customer base. Said Pruitt today: “DHEC did test the finished water at the plant last week and the MIB (naturally occurring compound) results were 18.2 and 19.0. According to DHEC, individuals will notice an ‘earthy’ taste and smell between the range of 20-30. While individuals that are more sensitive may detect a smell and taste around 10. To alleviate this issue, Pioneer will be bringing its PAC (Powdered Activated Carbon) system online within the next couple of weeks.” Pruitt says he expects any quality issues will dissipate over the next couple of weeks.