Heavy rains have once again caused the sewer lines along the Chattahoochee River and its tributaries to overflow causing raw sewage to spill into surrounding park lands. This is the third incident within three months whereby the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area must close Paces Mill. Flooding along the entrance road prohibits access to Paces Mill, while several areas within the park have raw sewage spilling on or near park trails. In addition, sewer spills have occurred along the mouth of Big Creek, near Vickery Creek and Azalea Drive.
This raw sewage, including feces, toilet tissue and feminine hygiene products, presents a serious health concern for visitors accessing some park trails, as well as the riverbank. For visitor safety and sanitation, the Paces Mill area of the park will remain closed until further notice.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
