IPF assured that this was not an emergency, and the situation was corrected. IPF stated that these incidents posed no threat to MSU water quality. In the public notice, IPF stated that they made changes to the sampling cycle per the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy's (EGLE) requirements and retrained water system operators.

EGLE enforces federal drinking requirements and regulates the public water supplies in addition to the water well drilling industry. IPF also follows the Federal and Michigan Safe Drinking Water Acts, which outlines the required limits of chemical content in water to regulate sufficient water quality. IPF tests the distributed water quality on campus biweekly. 

IPF claims they have been meeting proper regulations since the incidents in 2023. Students, however, continue to express concern over undesirable water quality. 

"I live in Gilchrist and (around the end of January), literally all of our water was yellow," business freshman Caleb Rellis said. "(Maintenance) didn’t message us to not use it or anything, they just left us on our own."

Water in the dorms isn't students' only cause of concern. Many say the water at IM West seems unsanitary, as students point out odd tastes and discoloration.

"I’ve been going (to IM West) since the fall and the water tastes very metallic," sports journalism freshman Gabe Sousa said. 

Complaints have also been made about MSU water damaging students’ hair and skin. Erica Venton, spokesperson for IPF, said the minerals in MSU water can react to hair products that include copper. 

According to the most recent water report published by the IPF, the copper content of MSU water is 1.3 parts per million in the campus distribution system, which is equivalent to the EPA water quality standard. 

Venton said there have been updates made by IPF and MSU since 2023 to ensure better water quality. The Farm Lane Bridge construction project included updates with water, sewer and electrical lines. With other new construction, such as the Multicultural Center and the upcoming Student Recreation and Wellness center, infrastructure improvements are prioritized.  

Other updates have been made as well, such as the addition of meters at all buildings to keep track of water mass balance. This provides better information and accountability, so IPF knows how much water is being used and where, which helps them identify water inefficiencies. 

At the central water plant, operational controls were upgraded for more efficient operation and enhancements were added that allow them to deliver better water quality. Old cast iron main lines were replaced as well. 

Venton stated that IPF is working toward continuous improvement of the MSU water and is regularly implementing adjustments to enhance water quality. She said IPF is also building a second chilled water plant and a second boiler at the power plant to help support the campus.

"It might not be your favorite, but we are working every day to ensure that it is safe to consume," Venton said.