Full Notification

A no-swim advisory remains in effect for North Fork River on American Thread Road, as well as Burnette’s and Lake James landings.
Hundreds of fish and other water-living animals were killed earlier this week by an unknown substance found in the river. Local, state and federal authorities have been on the scene of the fish kill since it was reported shortly after 8 p.m. Wednesday. State and federal officials continue to test the water to identify the unknown substance and its source.
Emergency services personnel and private contractors managed the scene overnight Thursday and monitored the waterways.
At this time, advisories remain in place for North Fork River and Burnette’s and Lake James landings until further notice. There are no current advisories for other parts of the lake.
The Rutherford-Polk-McDowell Health Department issued the following guidelines for citizens and their pets:
-- No contact with river water or sediment
-- No recreational activities – such as kayaking – in or on the water
-- No consumption of fish, shellfish or other organisms such as frogs, turtles, etc
According to ground water experts, it is unlikely that private wells will be impacted. If you have concerns, you can contact the Rutherford-Polk-McDowell Health Department by emailing [email protected].
The N.C. Department of Agriculture cautions farmers from using water from the affected area for any agricultural purposes (crops, watering animals, etc.) until further notice.