UPTON, Ky. — A popular gathering spot for a small Kentucky town is now the center of possible water contamination.
It has raised concerns within the community, especially those who are homes are connected to well water.
Located in the southern part of Hardin County is Upton, Kentucky. It's a rural town where residents are known to share a private spot called "Big Springs". It's located in the backyard of a private landowner, but is used as shared space for families to enjoy the woods and flowing spring.
Last week, a homeowner said they noticed the spring started looking gray and murky and was emitting a rotten smell. That's when they notified state officials it could possibly be contaminated.
The Commonwealth's Emergency Response Team and Division of Water started testing the water right away.
The city commissioner of Upton, Ted Jones, said he first heard about the situation last Saturday.
"I think probably the situation has been going on maybe six days before that," Jones said.
Jones said the spring flows into various other locations and underground. He said it's brought a concern to residents who use well water.
"A lot of people on well water, there was a concern about well water contamination," Jones said. "What I'm hearing right now is the Division of Water and Emergency Services determined it's not a concern."
WHAS11 reached out to the state's environmental team about the testing process.
In a statement they said, "Team Kentucky places the highest value on protecting the health and safety of families and communities in Kentucky. The Cabinet’s Emergency Response Team and the Division of Water are actively investigating this incident to determine the source and nature of the substance on this property. Its preliminary investigation has shown that no drinking water sources have been affected by this incident, and no Boil Water Advisory is needed. No public health warnings have been issued at this time."
"Certainly myself, I'm waiting on information on how they are going to approach this," Jones said. "I know that they are going to have to determine where this is coming from, and let people know what caused this in the first place before they look at cleanup. Obviously that's a concern."
Until officials find the source of contamination locals will have to avoid their favorite nature spot until the spring is rehabilitated.
Jones said he's glad with the Commonwealth's quick response and hopes they are able to enjoy their favorite spot again soon.
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