Nearly 82,000 Gallons Of Untreated Wastewater Spill

SMITHFIELD – Johnston County officials reported that approximately 81,900 gallons of untreated wastewater were discharged into wetlands connected to a tributary of the Neuse River following an equipment failure.

According to Johnston County Public Utilities, the discharge occurred between Feb. 5 and Feb. 6 in the 2700 block of S. Brightleaf Boulevard. Officials said the spill resulted from an electrical fault that shut down pumps and control systems within the wastewater collection system.

County utilities staff have since restored pump operations and are working to clean up the affected area.

The North Carolina Division of Water Resources was notified of the incident on Feb. 6 and is reviewing the matter.

Residents seeking more information can contact Johnston County Public Utilities at 919-989-5075.