The City of Rocky Mount recently reported a significant environmental incident: a 1.7 million gallon sewage overflow into the Tar River. The overflow was traced to a utility hole located under the trestle on River Side Drive.
Local Impact on Tar River
The Tar River, cherished by locals for recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and swimming, now faces pollution concerns. This contamination event marks another chapter in a recurring issue for the city.
City’s Response and Historical Context
Brenton Bent, Rocky Mount’s Director of Water Resources, emphasized the urgency of addressing the spill. “Any spill is unacceptable. We understand that, and we have to protect the health, safety, and well-being of the public,” Bent stated. Data from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) reveals that this particular spot has seen 24 overflows since 2018, releasing a cumulative total of 4 million gallons of sewage into the river.
Bent explained that the infrastructure often becomes overwhelmed during heavy rains, leading to these spills.
Environmental Monitoring and Advocacy
Katey Zimmerman, a representative from the non-profit organization Sound Rivers, has been closely monitoring the water quality in Rocky Mount for the past year. “I think it is essential for people to be aware of the water quality where they live,” Zimmerman commented. Although she has detected high levels of bacteria in the river, these levels have not yet been high enough to trigger an official DEQ water advisory. However, Zimmerman stresses that public awareness is crucial, as increased bacteria from sewage spills can pose health risks. “We’re advocating for more public signage and awareness of what is going on,” she added.
Future Actions and Engineering Solutions
To prevent future incidents, Bent mentioned that the city is collaborating with an engineer to enhance the infrastructure’s capacity. “I do understand the concerns. We definitely share the concerns. We want to be upfront,” he affirmed.
Ongoing Monitoring and Updates
The City of Rocky Mount has committed to ongoing water quality monitoring and promises to provide regular updates to the public.
Reverse Osmosis and Water Conditioners
Given the recurring issue of sewage spills into the Tar River, reverse osmosis filtration systems and whole-home water conditioners can be vital for residents. These systems can effectively remove contaminants from drinking water, ensuring safety and health. Reverse osmosis systems work by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, which filters out harmful substances. Whole-home water conditioners can treat water at the point of entry, providing clean water throughout the entire house. Implementing these solutions can help mitigate the impact of such environmental incidents on the local community.
Source: WRAL News