Illegal dumping at Mallard Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant: Drinking water NOT affected

CITY OF CHARLOTTE STATEMENT ON ILLEGAL DUMPING AND IMPACT                            
February 7, 2014

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utility Department confirms an intentional illegal dumping of toxic waste (including trichlorobenzene and PCBs) into the sewer system that impacted the Mallard Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant on U.S. 29 North.

A problem was first detected around noon yesterday (2/6). CMUD immediately took the plant off-line and began capturing and containing the contaminated wastewater within the plant. 

We have determined that the source of contamination was illegal dumping behind a grocery store near the intersection of West Sugar Creek Road and Harris Boulevard.

Based on our research and analysis there has been no risk to the public.

The plant was placed back online shortly before 5 a.m. today after determining it was safe to do so. All indications are the contamination was contained within the plant.

As a precaution we are advising people to avoid human or animal contact with Mallard Creek and the Rocky River in Cabarrus County until more testing is completed. N.C. water quality officials are aware of the situation and we also are notifying downstream authorities to share this advisory with folks along Rocky River in Cabarrus, Union and Anson counties.

The public is asked to call CRIMESTOPPERS at 704-334-1600 if you have any information that could lead to the apprehension of the person/s that did the illegal dumping.

If the public has any questions or concerns, they should contact CharMeck 311 (dial 311 direct or use 704-336-7600). Check http://emergency.charmeck.org for details as they come available.

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