NKWD Prepared For Effects of Coal Spill

Ft. Thomas, KY - October 23, 2000

The coal sludge that was released into the Big Sandy River has not yet affected the Northern Kentucky Region. Moderate rainfalls and increased speed of the Ohio River have combined to slow the spill which has not yet reached Ashland, KY. The Northern Kentucky Water District (NKWD) is continuing plans to deal with the spill should it reach the area. NKWD's Plant Supervisor visited the site Saturday and reviewed emergency plans with the City of Ashland. NKWD's water quality laboratory has samples of the coal slurry and is performing treatability studies on it this morning. The District's Engineering Foreman and the Safety Coordinator will be traveling to the spill site tomorrow to gather more firsthand information.