VDH issues health advisory to portion of the Clinch River in Russell County due to sewage treatment plant issues

Health officials in Virginia are recommending avoiding using a portion of the Clinch River in Russell County due to threats of raw sewage affecting the river’s cleanliness.

An advisory from the Virginia Department of Health says severe damages occurred to the Town of Cleveland’s sewage treatment plant over the weekend. Precautions are in place like pumping the sewage and hauling it off to a nearby facility, but warns of the likelihood that sewage may overflow from the collection system into the river. Repairs to the plant are scheduled to start soon.

The advisory extends from the Town of Cleveland campground to the public boat ramp in Carterton. Recreational activities like swimming and kayaking in the affected areas are prohibited and that advisory is in effect until further notice.

Photo Courtesy: VDOT