CAMPBELL COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Customers of the Caryville-Jacksboro Utility District are being told their drinking water is safe after concerns that fuel-contaminated soil entered the area’s underground water supply following recent heavy storms.
The issue began when storm runoff washed diesel-contaminated soil into a sinkhole connected to the groundwater system serving portions of Campbell County. Residents soon reported a diesel-like odor in their tap water, prompting testing and a public advisory.
On Saturday, Caryville-Jacksboro Utility District Executive Secretary and General Manager Frank Wallace announced that water samples had been reviewed by state officials and approved, giving the utility an all-clear.
While testing indicates the water is now safe, Wallace said customers should take additional precautions by flushing their household plumbing systems to remove any potential residue that may remain in pipes.
How Residents Should Flush Their Water Systems
Utility officials recommend customers run water through every faucet and fixture in their homes, including:
- Kitchen and bathroom sinks
- Showers and bathtubs
- Toilets
- Outdoor spigots, if applicable
Customers should allow water to run for five to 20 minutes at each fixture to help clear any lingering contamination or odors from household plumbing.
Bottled Water Still Available
Even with the all-clear issued, the utility district continues to provide bottled water to affected customers.
Residents can pick up two cases of bottled water per family at Jacksboro Middle School. Customers must provide proof that they are served by the Caryville-Jacksboro Utility District.
Utility officials say they will continue monitoring the system and working with state agencies to ensure water quality remains safe for customers throughout the service area.
The contamination concern followed heavy rainfall that carried fuel-affected soil into a sinkhole, highlighting the vulnerability of groundwater systems connected to karst terrain common in East Tennessee.
