This news item expired on Friday, April 29, 2016 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
On the evening of April 18, 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 more information contact:
HHSPIO@buncombecounty.org or 828.775.1321