City discusses emergency water pretreatment systems post-Hurricane Helene impacts

In the heart of Asheville's city hall, a sense of urgency filled the air as city officials gathered to discuss the pressing state of the water treatment systems following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. The meeting, held on June 5, 2025, highlighted the critical need for ongoing support and funding for the temporary pretreatment systems at the North Fork and DeBrule water treatment plants.

As the presentation unfolded, city leaders emphasized the sophisticated nature of the Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) units currently in operation. These systems, unique in their scale, play a vital role in ensuring the resilience of Asheville's water supply. The aftermath of Hurricane Helene left the watershed vulnerable, with officials warning that even moderate weather events could pose significant risks to water quality.

The urgency of the situation was underscored by recent analyses revealing alarming increases in sediment entering the reservoirs. North Fork experienced a 15% loss of tree canopy, leading to a projected 20-fold increase in sediment in the first year post-Hurricane Helene. DeBrule faced an even steeper challenge, with a 35% canopy loss and a staggering 50-fold increase in sediment projected. These findings, derived from aerial photography and GIS analysis, paint a stark picture of the ongoing environmental challenges.

City leadership has been proactive in communicating the need for continued support to state and federal partners, yet no decisions regarding future funding for the DAF units have been made. The current lease for these temporary systems is set to expire in early August, raising concerns about the potential for service disruptions if the systems are not extended.

As the meeting concluded, the implications of these discussions loomed large. Without the DAF units, a significant portion of the water system, particularly areas north of the Blue Ridge Parkway, could face service interruptions within 24 hours. The specter of boil water notices, reminiscent of the challenges faced last fall, hangs over the community, emphasizing the critical nature of the city's water infrastructure.

In the coming weeks, Asheville's leaders will continue to advocate for the necessary resources to safeguard the city's water supply, ensuring that the lessons learned from Hurricane Helene lead to a more resilient future for all residents.