Hamilton County Public Health is telling residents and their pets to stay away from Dry Run Creek in Anderson Township after sewage contaminated the waterway near State Route 32 and 8 Mile Road.

The agency issued the health alert on Wednesday, July 15, citing a sewage discharge that was first reported to HCPH and the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati on June 24. Heavy creek flows eroded the banks and damaged sewer infrastructure, sending sewage into the water, according to the alert.

MSD has since diverted and stopped the active leak. But a permanent fix is still in progress, and HCPH says the creek remains unsafe for any contact.

What HCPH says to do

The agency's guidance:

  • Do not swim, boat, or play in or near Dry Run Creek.
  • Do not let bare skin contact the water.
  • Wash hands, clothing, and footwear thoroughly if you must be in the area.
  • Check MSD's combined sewer overflow map for updates on overflow events.

Three-week gap between discovery and public alert

HCPH and MSD learned of the discharge on June 24 but did not issue the public health alert until July 15. HCPH did not address the three-week gap between discovery and public notification in its press release.

Craig Davidson, HCPH's assistant health commissioner for environmental health services, confirmed in the July 15 release that the agencies are collaborating on a permanent repair. He said the health and safety of Hamilton County residents remains a top priority for all agencies involved.

What east-side residents should know

Dry Run Creek runs along the SR-32 corridor in Anderson Township, which borders the east-side villages area including Indian Hill and Terrace Park. HCPH officials noted that heavy rains across Greater Cincinnati can cause similar issues with waterways and sewer systems, making the advisory relevant to anyone who uses creek trails in the east-side corridor.

Neither HCPH nor MSD has announced a timeline for completing the permanent repair or lifting the advisory. Residents can monitor MSD's online CSO notification map for status updates.