• By Forsyth County Department of Public Health
• Posted Thursday, February 3, 2022

Water advisory for Muddy Creek due to Weaver plant fire runoff

The Forsyth County Department of Public Health, in conjunction with North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources are issuing a precautionary advisory pending a water quality investigation for Monarcas Creek and downstream sections of Mill and Muddy Creeks from the Monarcas Creek at 4440 N Cherry St. to, and including, the Muddy Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant.

A fire at 4440 N Cherry St. has potentially impacted Monarcas Creek due to runoff from the site from rainfall and firefighting efforts. There is currently an ongoing investigation to determine the extent of the impacts from this fire to the identified waterways. While this investigation is ongoing, we are issuing a recreational water advisory for the section of Monarcas Creek and the downstream sections of Mill Creek, and Muddy Creek ending at the Muddy Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant.

All three raw water intakes used by WSFC Utilities water treatment plants are upstream from the Weaver runoff impacting Monarcas, Mill and Muddy Creeks. The drinking water supply remains safe.

Monarcas Creek is the primary waterway impacted from the fire 4440 N Cherry St. Monarcas Creek flows into Mill Creek which eventually flows into Muddy Creek. If you notice any plumes, sheens, or fish kills in these water ways avoid coming into contact with these waters and report these conditions to 336-776-9800.

Until the water is tested and declared safe, environmental and public health officials recommend:

• Avoid swimming, wading or fishing in this section of Muddy Creek until further notice.
• Avoid skin contact with water, soil and sediment in or near the river.
• If skin comes in contact with contaminated sediment or water, thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water.
• If you are concerned that you, your family, and/or pets have been exposed to these waterways contact your healthcare provider or veterinarian.