Notification of Discharge of Untreated Wastewater - February 6, 2026

February 6, 2026

 

For Immediate Release:

 

 

Smithfield, NC – General Statute 143-215.1C requires that the owner or operator of any wastewater collection or treatment works to issue a press release when an untreated wastewater discharge of 1,000 gallons or more reaches surface waters. In accordance with that regulation, the following news release has been prepared and issued.

The Johnston County wastewater collection system had a discharge of untreated wastewater on February 5-6, 2026 in the vicinity of 2756 Brightleaf Boulevard, Smithfield, North Carolina. Approximately 81,900 gallons of untreated wastewater discharged into wetlands tributary to the Neuse River.

The discharge was a result of an electrical fault shutting down the pumps and controls. Utilities staff have restored pump operations and are working to clean up the area.

The NC Division of Water Resources was notified of the event on February 6, 2026 and is reviewing the matter. For more information, contact Johnston County Public Utilities at 919-989-5075.