This is the WFHB Local News for Wednesday, September 29th, 2021.

Later in the program, we hear a selection from an Interchange on the memoir of Noel Ignatiev, titled Acceptable Men: Life in the largest steel mill in the world. That Steel Mill is the Gary Works of US Steel in 1972 the year that Ignatiev began working there. Interchange Producer Doug Storm speaks with Michael Staudenmaier, an assistant professor of history at Manchester University in North Manchester, Indiana. More coming up in today’s feature report.

Also coming up in the next half hour, we have your weekly consumer-watchdog segment, Better Beware, hosted by Richard Fish.

But first, your environmental news brief:

Bloomington Utilities has recently advised residents of Bloomington and Monroe County to avoid draining treated water, such as pool water, into nearby drains or waterways. Treated water contains chemicals such as chlorine that have multiple negative side effects for the environment. These chemicals can contaminate fish and hurt organisms that live on the ground or in the soil. Bloomington Utilities recommends that residents allow their pools to sit untreated for at least seven days before draining, which allows ample time for the pool water to lose the harmful chemicals before drainage.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has identified a new invasive species found for the first time in the state. This species, called the Spotted lanternfly, is a planthopper insect that causes serious damage to gardens when feeding. They cause plants to wilt and die after feeding on the plant. In addition, the insects excrete a sugary substance that attracts black mold which can cause further damage. The Spotted lanternfly has an identifiable bright red and spotted coloring on its wings. The Indiana DNR is asking for citizens to report any sighting of the species to their email, [email protected].

Indiana residents have wondered when to expect the most optimal time for the best fall colors from the changing foliage. According to the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Prediction Map, central Indiana should reach the peak of the season around October 25th, with weeks before and after being perfect times for those fall photos. Some of the best locations to view the fall foliage include Brown County State Park, Monon Trail, Lake Monroe, and Clifty Falls State Park.

Residents Complain About Smell and Taste of City Water

Residents complain about the taste and smell of city water. Bloomington Utilities Director Vic Kelson says that it stems from a growth in algae following lack of rainfall this summer.

At the Bloomington Utilities Service Board’s September 27th meeting Director of Utilities Vic Kelson explained the water’s flavor that Bloomington residents have been experiencing.

Kelson noted that it takes seven to ten days for water to get to locations farthest from the water treatment plant so it might take a bit longer for the treated water to be distributed to everyone.

Board member Megan Parmenter asked about if the amounts of chemicals they are adding to the water are still at safe levels for consumption. Kelson said that they are still very low levels and assured the board that the water is safe to drink.

He recommended putting ice in your water and using water filters like a carbon filter or a reverse osmosis filter until the problem is resolved.

The next meeting will be held on October 12th.

Update on Unemployment in Indiana Following the State's August Numbers

WFHB Correspondent Tilly Robinson provides an update on unemployment after the state department of workforce development released unemployment numbers for August.