At approximately 0849hrs on 4/5/2011, a 3.2 MG equalization tank at the Gatlinburgn Wastewater Plant ruptured and released approximately 1.5MG of untreated wastewater in to the Little Pigeon River. EPA Phone Duty remained in contact with the TEMA Area Coordinator On-Scene and the TDEC Responder On-Scene. Response information was forwarded to the EPA R4 Water Division. Smokey Mountain National Park rangers were also on-scene to coordinate with TDEC. EPA OSC Andrews, who was in the surrounding area, was mobilized to the scene to provide information to the Water Division. TDEC determined that no water intakes will be impacted, contingencies were being activated at the facility to partially bypass until operations resumed, and signs have been posted along the river to warn residents of possible bacterial contaminants. No EPA assistance was requested from the state. OSC Andrews demobilized on 4/5/2011.
