Petroleum contamination: contact with water in Sweeten Creek is not advised

Buncombe County DHHS is advising that people not have contact with water in sweeten creek around the intersection of Fairview Rd.

A “release of petroleum into Sweeten Creek”  two days ago has caused the Buncombe County Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health to issue an advisory warning the public to avoid contact with water in the effected area. The tight focus of the stated effected area, which does not include the Swannanoa river indicates that the contamination may be small scale. The intersection also includes train tracks. At the time of initial posting the source of the contamination is unclear.

Press release from Buncombe County Health and Human Services:

On the evening of April 18th, the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) reported to the National Response Center that a release of petroleum into Sweeten Creek had occurred.  Currently, the point of release has been secured and remediation efforts have begun however, the amount and type of petroleum released is still under investigation. The impacted area includes Sweeten Creek at the intersection of Fairview Road and Sweeten Creek, downstream to the intersection of the Swannanoa River and Biltmore Avenue.

To protect the health of the public, Buncombe County Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health is issuing a recreational water use advisory for the affected area. Activities such as swimming, wading, fishing, or boating should be postponed until further notice. If you do come in contact with water that has a sheen or odor, wash with water and soap as soon as possible. For questions related to this recreational water use advisory, contact Kevin Turner at (828) 250-6545.

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About Able Allen
Able studied political science and history at Warren Wilson College. He enjoys travel, dance, games, theater, blacksmithing and the great outdoors. Follow me @AbleLAllen

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One thought on “Petroleum contamination: contact with water in Sweeten Creek is not advised

  1. boatrocker

    New Asheville t shirts are for sale at the Visitor Center-

    “I vacationed in Asheville, and didn’t tip. I treated this town like the hired help and got out alive. How? Aquafina!”

    ‘The poors’ don’t deserve clean water, according to some. Just wait for the responses.

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