Following the detection of E. coli in Pikeville’s treated wastewater earlier this summer, the city has received an additional violation notice from the state authorities.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) now requires the city to install warning signs notifying the public of potential sewage presence in the Sequatchie River and to initiate weekly E. coli testing in the river.
TDEC measured excessive levels of E. coli, which indicate that the processed wastewater could pose a risk to recreational activities in the Sequatchie River.
The signage must be displayed, and a comprehensive plan outlining corrective action is due by September 19.
“The City of Pikeville is fully committed to making clean water,” Pikeville Mayor Philip Cagle stated. “We are building a new $20 million wastewater treatment plant.”
