Algae in Lakes Foul Drinking Water

RALEIGH — Blue-green algae in Lakes Hickory and Rhodhiss are causing unpleasant taste and odor in public drinking water in Hickory, Longview, Lenoir, Valdese, and Granite Falls. Also affected are drinking water systems that purchase water from these municipalities, including the towns of Conover, Claremont, Maiden, Catawba, Hudson and Sawmills, Alexander County Water System, Caldwell County Water Systems, Joyceton Water Utility, Baton Water Authority, Icard Township Water Corporation, and Triple Community Water System.