September 5, 2025 — If your tap water has been tasting a bit like soil lately, you’re not imagining it. The City of Clovis has confirmed that an earthy odor and taste may be present in the water, but they assure residents that it’s a natural and harmless occurrence. The culprit is a compound called geosmin.
While the sensation may be unpleasant, it’s nothing to worry about. Geosmin is a naturally occurring compound that is responsible for the distinct, pleasant smell of rain hitting dry soil—a phenomenon known as petrichor. The compound is produced by various microbes, including soil bacteria and blue-green algae. The human nose and palate are incredibly sensitive to geosmin, which is why even a tiny amount can cause such a noticeable difference in taste and smell…