New York City’s drinking water may regularly be compared to champagne, but for the next few months, it might contain earthy and musty notes instead of its usual, pristine bouquet. But WNYC's Danny Lewis reports there is no reason to be alarmed—the funky flavor, while unpleasant to some, is harmless. 

The city's Department of Environmental Protection is making repairs to one of its major aqueducts, and relying on smaller reservoirs for more drinking water instead. Those are likely to contain natural — and HARMLESS — compounds from decaying leaves and organic matter this time of year. Agency spokesman Adam Bosch said even a tiny amount can cause tap water to taste musty.

"Which just for the sake of comparison is equivalent of 10 grains of sand and an Olympic swimming pool, or the equivalent of a pinch of salt on 10 tons of potato chips," said Bosch.

Bosch said this will only affect people in Manhattan and the Bronx and anyone who notices is should call 311. Refrigerating water or adding lemon will help reduce any off-taste.

For the full story, go to Gothamist.