Hardeeville and Bluffton, September 6, 2025
News Summary
Residents in Hardeeville and Bluffton, South Carolina, are facing widespread discolored tap water due to manganese dislodgement from water pipes. The Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA) has urged residents not to consume the affected water, which may have an unpleasant taste and could stain clothing. Ongoing efforts to flush the system include opening fire hydrants to restore water quality. BJWSA anticipates resolving the issue soon, while residents are advised to stay vigilant and report any discoloration.
Hardeeville and Bluffton, South Carolina – The Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA) has reported widespread discolored tap water in Hardeeville and Bluffton, an issue attributed to the presence of manganese, a naturally occurring mineral commonly found in drinking water sources. Residents are advised to refrain from consuming discoloration-affected water as manganese may impart an unpleasant taste and can also stain laundry.
The discoloration stems from recent testing conducted at BJWSA’s newly expanded Purrysburg Water Treatment Plant. The testing of a new pump at the plant prompted fluctuations in water pressure, which inadvertently dislodged manganese deposits within the water supply network. This resulted in the brown-colored water observed by residents. Following the disturbance, BJWSA has initiated measures to address the issue by actively flushing the affected systems through the opening of fire hydrants.
BJWSA officials confirmed that the situation is ongoing, with new areas continuing to report discolored water. Hilton Head Island water authorities have opted to discontinue their acceptance of water from the BJWSA system due to the ongoing concerns. It is important for residents to note that boiling the discolored water will not remedy the situation, as it will neither improve the coloration nor eliminate manganese.
The Minnesota Department of Health highlights the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to elevated manganese levels, which may precipitate problems related to memory and attention. Therefore, residents are being prompted to monitor their water quality closely and report any notable discoloration issues through the BJWSA website.
BJWSA anticipates resolving the discoloration situation by the end of the current week, although the exact causes behind the manganese dislodgement remain under investigation. The spokesperson for BJWSA likened the scenario to “playing discolored water Whack-a-Mole,” denoting the unpredictable nature of the incidents as new areas are constantly emerging with similar issues. Measures are being implemented as swiftly as possible, with the aim of restoring normal water quality to the affected communities.
Residents are urged to stay updated on the situation and follow instructions from local authorities while BJWSA works diligently to correct the problem. Public communication on this matter will follow regarding progress and successful resolution.
Background Context
Manganese is a mineral found in the environment and is generally harmless in low concentrations. However, when it accumulates in significant amounts, it can cause various issues, including the discoloration of water. This recent disruption in Hardeeville and Bluffton marks a unique challenge for BJWSA, following the plant’s recent capacity expansion, a move aimed at accommodating increasing demand for water in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the discolored water in Hardeeville and Bluffton?
The discoloration is caused by manganese that has been dislodged due to changes in water pressure during testing at the Purrysburg Water Treatment Plant.
Is it safe to drink the discolored water?
Residents are advised not to drink the discolored water as manganese may cause a bitter taste and can stain clothing.
How is BJWSA responding to the situation?
BJWSA is actively flushing the discolored water from the system by opening fire hydrants and aims to resolve the issue by the end of the week.
Will boiling the water help remove the discoloration?
No, boiling the discolored water will not correct the coloration or eliminate manganese from it.
Key Features of the Discolored Water Issue
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Discolored Water Presence | Brown-colored tap water in Hardeeville and Bluffton due to manganese. |
| Cause | Dislodgement of manganese deposits from recent pump testing at the Purrysburg Water Treatment Plant. |
| Health Advisory | Avoid drinking discolored water due to taste and potential staining; report issues online. |
| Response Actions | Hydrant flushing and monitoring ongoing to restore normal water quality. |
| Expected Resolution | Aim to resolve the issue by the end of the week. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority Update
- Wikipedia: Water Quality
- Island Packet: Local Water Concerns
- Google Search: Water Discoloration Issues
- WJCL: Health Risks of Discolored Water
- Google Scholar: Water Contamination
- WSAV: Reasons for Brown Water
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Manganese
- Post and Courier: Water Growth Balance
- Google News: Manganese in Drinking Water
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
