9 February 2010 – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) have brought in large hydraulic dredge equipment to expedite the removal of ash from the Emory River. To keep the river as safe as possible, the Emory River will continue to be closed until 15 May 2010 from mile marker 0 to mile marker 6.
The initial river closure began on 11 August 2009, and was extended through 15 February 2010. The U.S. Coast Guard, EPA and TVA reevaluated dredging operations and concluded that an extension to the closure area is necessary for continued public safety. No river traffic will be allowed through this area. After that time, EPA and TVA will review the situation and determine when the river can safely be re-opened.
EPA’s closure map can be found at http://www.epakingstontva.com.
Individuals requiring further information or instructions regarding recreational use of Watts Bar Reservoir should contact EPA Community Involvement Coordinator, Stephanie Y. Brown at +1 800 564 7577 or +1 865 717 1635.
For more information about EPA’s oversight and response activities at the Kingston site, visit: http://www.epa.gov/region4/kingston and http://www.epakingstontva.com.
CONTACT
Davina Marraccini
+1 404 562 8293
marraccini.davina@epa.gov
