Despite change in odor and taste, Mesa says its water is safe

MESA - Mesa officials are warning city residents about a slight change in the odor and taste of their water for the next few weeks.

The city’s water resource department says the change is caused by a byproduct of seasonal algae called Geosmin.

Officials say Geosmin isn’t harmful and the water is safe to drink and use in daily activities.

They also say Mesa’s water continues to meet all state and federal drinkingwater standards.

At low concentrations, Geosmin causes a musty or soil-like odor and taste in the water.

Coronado Forest officials take action against bark beetles

SAFFORD - Forest officials in southern Arizona are trying to keep bark beetles from destroying endangered squirrel habitat.

The Coronado National Forest says it plans to treat 300 acres of Douglas fir with a product that repels bark beetles.

The treatment involves placing capsules containing anti-aggression pheromones among the trees. Officials say the capsules send a signal that wards off male beetles looking to reproduce.

The treatment is set for early spring. Forest officials say they should be able to tell if it worked by late next summer.

They say they saw success with the treatment after a wildfire in 2011.

Officials say wildfires in 2004 and this year charred much of the critical habitat for the endangered Mount Graham red squirrel. About 600 acres remain.

Traffic delays expected during work east of Apache Junction

APACHE JUNCTION - Drivers traveling a 24-mile stretch of State Route 88 east of Apache Junction should expect delays the next two months while workers repair damage from flooding.

The department says the work between Apache Junction and Canyon Lake will take place between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and that no work is scheduled over the Labor Day weekend.

Traffic will be restricted to one lane in half-mile increments and a pilot vehicle will guide drivers through work zones. — Associated Press