News Release

Chattahoochee River reopens after spill

Date: July 19, 2023
Contact: Ann Honious, 770-318-3000

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. – Today, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (park) reopened all sections of the Chattahoochee River that were closed due to elevated E. Coli contamination stemming from a release at Big Creek Water Reclamation Facility operated by Fulton County. The park closed sections of the river in late June as a safety precaution. The bacterial levels are now below the criteria recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, though conditions remain subject to change.  

The park has conducted water quality sampling with Chattahoochee Riverkeeper (CRK) daily since detecting the spill. U.S. Public Health Service officials supported the reopening after seeing continual improvement in sampling results and process improvements at the Fulton County facility. The park is assessing impacts on wildlife, vegetation and aquatic resources. The BacteriALERT partnership with CRK and the U.S. Geological Survey will continue to monitor water quality at Medlock Bridge, Powers Island and Paces Mill. 

Before getting in the water, always remember to wear a life vest and check the flow rate, weather forecast and bacteria levels. Current information about the river is available on social media and at www.nps.gov/CHAT.