COVINGTON, Ky. — The Northern Kentucky Water District and other partners continue to monitor chemical levels in the Ohio River. NKWD reports that a chemical was detected at low levels far upstream from water supply intakes. The Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission has a detection system using sophisticated instruments to analyze for chemicals that may be present in the river.

What You Need To Know

  •  The Northern Kentucky Water District reports a chemical was detected at low levels far upstream from water supply intakes

  •  NKWD joins other utilities in shutting down Ohio River water intakes as a precautionary measure

  •  Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission has a detection system with instruments that can analyze chemicals that may be present in the river

  • NKWD reports remnants from this spill could hit Saturday night or Sunday morning

“It’s very difficult because we’re barely able to detect it. And that’s good news, so making it hard to see it because the levels are so low is good news. But this is still something we have to work with,” Richard Harrison, ORSANCO Executive Director and Chief Engineer, said.

Leaders are shutting down Ohio River intakes as a precautionary measure for the time being while they monitor chemicals and will use a state-of-the-art treatment process.

Harrison said this is all part of a multi-barrier approach. It’s just adding extra layers of protection.

“The protection of the public health is so important to us that these extra barriers help ensure that we have great finished water.”

Harrison said nothing is perfect, but he feels they are all in as best of shape as they can be. 

“Through great work, I think you’ll see a lot of partners have a pretty good handle on this. I’m very confident that this is going to be not a harmful issue and utilities are in great shape. And we’re already working with Louisville,” he said.

NKWD reports remnants from this spill could hit over the weekend.

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