Sewer leak contaminates pond at Joyner Park in Wake Forest, area closed

The pond in Joyner Park is closed Friday due to contamination from a sewer leak.

Initially, the City of Wake Forest suspected the presence of red algae in the pond. However, further investigation revealed that the contamination was caused by a sewage leak.

For this reason, the city announced that both the pond and the nearby hiking trail would be closed until further notice.

Visitors to the park are advised:

• Stay away from the pond and avoid any contact with water or algae, even on the banks.
• Refrain from fishing or participating in other water activities in the pond.
• Prevent dogs from swimming in or drinking pond water.
• In case of contact with water, rinse immediately.
• If symptoms occur after contact, consult a doctor or veterinarian.

The city government is working with Raleigh Water and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality to determine next steps.

Signs and fences have been put up to inform the public about the closure.

For more information, contact Stormwater Utility Manager Nick Nolte at 919-435-9449 or [email protected].