VDH: Plant malfunction deposits 438,000 gallons of sewage into Powell River in Big Stone Gap

A plant malfunction in Big Stone Gap caused more than 438,000 gallons of sewage to spill into the South Fork of the Powell River.

The Virginia Department of Health issued a water recreation advisory for that waterway Friday afternoon following the incident. The agency says there has been no impact on drinking water.

Activities like boating, fishing, and canoeing are still permitted but VDH recommends no contact with water. Repairs are being conducted at the plant.

(IMAGE: Virginia Tourism Corporation / DPI)