The City of Asheville is sharing an update on the temporary water pre-treatment systems installed at the North Fork and DeBruhl water treatment plants after Hurricane Helene. These systems will remain in place and operational through at least November 30, 2025, thanks to continued funding support from FEMA.
“On behalf of the City of Asheville, I want to thank Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for obligating critical funds to support our community’s recovery from Tropical Storm Helene. We are deeply grateful to our partners at FEMA, the State, as well as Senators Ted Budd and Thom Tillis, and Congressman Chuck Edwards, for their continued advocacy and support of Asheville.” — Mayor Esther Manheimer
Temporary Pre-Treatment Systems
Following Hurricane Helene, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers installed temporary pre-treatment filtrations systems at North Fork and DeBruhl water treatment plants to help reduce turbidity —cloudiness in the water caused by sediment and debris.
These systems have added a critical layer of protection for Asheville’s drinking water supply since Hurricane Helene and through this year’s hurricane season. FEMA funding has covered the operating costs of about $6 million per month.
While both watersheds remain vulnerable, conditions improve the longer we go without another severe weather event.
Debris removal efforts are already underway in the watershed at North Fork and are expected to continue for several months. This work will help strengthen the watershed and reduce future vulnerability. Debris removal at DeBruhl will take place at a later date, though no timetable has been set.
Looking Ahead
The City of Asheville remains committed to protecting its water supply and continuing recovery work after Hurricane Helene. Staff will continue to monitor the impact of sediment, rainfall and the debris operations on the reservoirs and continually assess the need for the temporary pre-treatment filtration systems.
Staff are also committed to a permanent solution to protect the reservoirs in the future. Water Resources has engaged two private engineering firms to perform pre-construction planning and design for permanent pre-treatment solutions at North Fork and DeBruhl.
For more information and to receive updates on water recovery projects, please visit the Water Recovery Project Page at this link.