Concerns Over Proposed Wastewater Plant Threaten Local River and Businesses
Business owners along the Flint River in Alabama are expressing growing concerns about the future of their community, particularly due to a proposed wastewater treatment plant in New Market. The plan has sparked a wave of anxiety among residents and local business leaders who rely on the river for recreation and tourism.
Jason Pauls, owner of TGL Adventures, which offers camping, kayaking, and tubing services, is one of many who fear the impact this project could have on the river. “We love this river; it is used daily,” he said. For Pauls, the Flint River isn’t just a natural resource—it’s the backbone of his business and a cherished part of the community.
According to information from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM), Integra Water has submitted an application to renew a permit for building a wastewater treatment plant on Winchester Road, located just south of County Lake Road. The proposal includes plans to discharge treated liquid waste into the Flint River.
When asked about the issue, officials from Integra Water told WAFF that ADEM will closely monitor the process to ensure the river remains clean. However, Pauls remains skeptical about the safety of the project. He believes the plant would severely harm the river and ultimately damage his business.
“We’re talking about millions of gallons of treated feces being poured into the river every day,” Pauls said. “Who would want to kayak or swim in that?”
Pauls, like many others in the area, only learned about the proposal at the last minute. He discovered the news just days before ADEM closed its public comment period. This lack of transparency has led to frustration among locals who feel they were not given enough time to voice their concerns.
“I’m sending emails just voicing my concern,” Pauls said. “I’m sure there are thousands of others doing the same thing. It’s gotten a lot of traction online, and people are really upset. Nobody wants this on our river.”
Despite the concerns, Integra Water has stated that all water processed through the plant will be highly treated, disinfected, and meet strict state and federal environmental standards. The company claims that the facility will operate safely and responsibly.
However, the uncertainty surrounding the project has already begun to affect the local economy. Many residents worry that the presence of a wastewater treatment plant could deter tourists and damage the reputation of the area as a pristine natural destination.
The debate over the plant highlights the ongoing tension between industrial development and environmental protection. While some argue that the plant could bring jobs and economic growth, others fear it could lead to long-term harm to the river and the businesses that depend on it.
As the discussion continues, the community remains divided. Some support the project, seeing it as a necessary step for infrastructure development, while others remain firmly opposed, advocating for stronger protections for the Flint River.
With public input limited and the decision still pending, the future of the river—and the businesses that rely on it—remains uncertain. For now, residents are hoping that their voices will be heard and that the Flint River will continue to be a source of pride and recreation for generations to come.
