July 7, 2023
Media Contact: Brenden Rivenbark (804)382-9391
VDH Issues Health Advisory due to Sewage Release in Area of Goldman Creek
Active testing is currently underway in affected areas
SALUDA, Va. — Goldman Creek, Rosier Creek and the Potomac Waterfront of Colonial Beach are under a health advisory for recreational use until further notice due to a sewage release. Overnight between July 3 and July 4, approximately 1.14 million gallons of sewage was spilled from the Town of Colonial Beach wastewater treatment plant near Goldman Creek and the 205 bridge.
The Virginia Department of Health Division of Shellfish Safety and Waterborne Hazards has issued an emergency shellfish closure for a portion of Rosier Creek. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has also visited the site of the spill.
The Maryland Department of Health has issued a public health alert for waters of the Potomac related to this spill and the Town of Colonial Beach has issued a Beach and Waterway Closure Alert.
The Three Rivers Health District and Division of Shellfish Safety and Waterborne Hazards notes that a majority of the condemned shellfish areas in the Rosier and Goldman Creeks were condemned previously due to matters unrelated to the July 3rd spill. The Virginia Department of Health, Department of Environmental Quality, Maryland Department of Health, and Town of Colonial Beach will continue to monitor this incident to assess any hazard to public health and closures will be continuously evaluated.
To prevent recreational water illnesses due to sewage release events, people should:
- Avoid contact with any area of the waterbody of Goldman Creek, Rosier Creek and their opening to the Potomac River at Colonial Beach.
- If you come in contact with the waterbody, wash skin with soap and water.
- If you experience symptoms of illness after contact with the waterbody, seek medical care and notify your practitioner of the waterbody exposure.
Visit www.SwimHealthyVa.com for ways to stay safe while recreating in natural waterbodies.
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