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Walton County approves third-party surface-water testing near former landfill sites, staff to return cost estimates for Red Bay area
Summary
Environmental staff will proceed with limited third-party surface-water testing (metal spectrum) for Aliqua and Crawford Creeks (estimated under $10,000) and will provide cost estimates for similar testing in the Red Bay/Rock Hill area; the board approved the initial sampling plan.
Walton County environmental staff told the board on Nov. 12 they are collecting and reviewing agency water-quality data for areas near the old Coyote landfill and recommended a targeted surface-water sampling program to verify metal concentrations.
Melinda Gates, county environmental staff, outlined a proposed five-site surface-water sampling program (EPA Appendix I metals spectrum) to check for contamination associated with landfill-related metals and carcinogens. Gates estimated the program could be completed for under $10,000 using an existing contractor who performs similar sampling for the county's solid-waste division.
Commissioners asked whether private wells could be included; staff said private-well testing is possible but requires additional paperwork and consent, and recommended starting with public and surface-water sites and offering a voluntary private-well program if initial results suggest concern.
The board voted to proceed with Aliqua and Crawford Creek sampling and directed staff to return cost estimates to expand testing around Red Bay/Rock Hill (Bruce Creek / 7 Runs Creek) if needed.
Why this matters: Residents raised long-standing water-quality concerns in areas downstream of waste facilities; the county's sampling will provide independent, third-party data to clarify any present-day contamination and help guide next steps.
Next steps: Environmental staff will contract for sample collection and laboratory analysis, return full sampling results and cost estimates for any expanded program to the board, and consider a private-well testing option if warranted by findings.
