Sanitary implications associated with the use of eutrophic freshwater

This review presents the problem of eutrophication of lakes whose waters are used also for potable use. The indirect negative impact of algal blooms as well as the direct consequences of the overgrowth of toxic Cyanophyta are considered. Problems for water treatment plants processing eutrophic raw water are exposed. Basic treatment will not easily remove algae or their by-products and increased use of chlorine will give rise to high levels of chlorinated by-products such as THM. Possible alternatives and improvements are suggested for the treatment of poor quality raw water to obtain high quality drinking water.