UPDATE (2/5/2026): City Manager Jessica O’Connor provided a final water quality conclusion and laboratory findings update on the City of Griffin Facebook page.

The City of Griffin has completed a comprehensive water quality investigation following the recent Do Not Consume Water Advisory. This investigation was conducted in coordination with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) and included multiple rounds of sampling and laboratory analysis to confirm the safety of the City’s water system. EPD has reviewed all laboratory results from samples collected beginning January 30, 2026. Testing confirmed no fuel-related contamination in the City of Griffin water system. Based on these findings, EPD determined that the water meets all standards and specifications for safe drinking water.

January 30, 2026:
Initial samples were collected and delivered to the Eurofins laboratory in Atlanta for analysis of fuel-related compounds and glycols. Verbal confirmation was received the evening of January 30th that samples were negative for fuel contamination. EPD lifted the Do Not Consume Water Advisory for the City of Griffin after laboratory testing confirmed no fuel contamination

January 30 – February 1, 2026:
Additional samples were collected from the water distribution system and the Harry Simmons Water Treatment Plant in response to odor complaints. These samples were preserved, refrigerated, and prepared for further laboratory analysis.

February 2, 2026:
All additional samples collected from the water distribution system and the Harry Simmons Water Treatment Plant were received and analyzed by the Eurofins laboratory. Testing included analysis for Diesel Range Organics, Glycols, and disinfection byproducts. One clearwell sample collected at the Harry Simmons Water Treatment Plant, while the plant was shut down, tested positive for propylene glycol. No propylene glycol was detected in the distribution system. All samples were negative for fuel contaminants. EPD confirmed the water system meets all requirements for safe drinking water.

Matthew Dodd, Surface Water Sanitary Survey Team Leader with the Environmental Protection Division, stated:

“Testing results showed a detect for Propylene Glycol out of the clearwell while the plant was shut down. All samples were negative for Fuel-like contaminants. Propylene Glycol is not a regulated contaminant in drinking water, having no Maximum Contaminant Level or Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level. [T]he system meets the standards and specifications for safe drinking water. We advise the City of Griffin to continue to flush water in areas that are still having taste and odor issues.”

The presence of propylene glycol has contributed to odor concerns and may persist in some areas as water continues to move through the distribution system. EPD has advised the City of Griffin to continue targeted flushing in areas where residents may still experience odor issues. City water professionals will continue to monitor the system and respond to reports as needed. Since the Do Not Consume Water Advisory was issued on January 30, 2026, all water samples have met safe drinking water standards and have been negative for fuel contamination. Based on these results, EPD and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved lifting the advisory. Following additional sampling, EPD continues to confirm that the City of Griffin water system meets all standards and specifications for safe drinking water and has no fuel contaminants.

To view the reports from Eurofins, click on the links below.

J56192-1 UDS Level 2 Report Final Report

J56283-1 UDS Level 2 Report Final Report

J56285-1 UDS Level 2 Report Final Report

J56294-1 UDS Level 2 Report Final Report

To watch the full update from City Manager Jessica O’Connor, click the link: https://youtu.be/0w9a2eW-UO0

UPDATE (2/3/2026): City Manager Jessica O’Connor provided a live update on the City of Griffin Facebook page from the City of Griffin’s Flint River Pump Station to explain the events that led to the recent Do Not Consume Water Advisory, why it was issued, and to confirm the current status of the City’s water system. 

On Friday morning, the City was notified of a fuel spill near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport that reached the Flint River. At the same time, Griffin received odor complaints within its water system. Because Griffin’s intake is the third downstream intake from the airport and was the only system reporting odor concerns, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) requested that the City issue a Do Not Consume Water Advisory as a precaution while testing was conducted.

The City immediately shut down its Flint River Pump Station, collected water samples from multiple locations—including the intake, the Harry Simmons Water Treatment Plant, and customer taps—and shifted water production away from the river. A local emergency declaration was also issued to ensure the City could respond quickly if testing confirmed contamination.

Laboratory results from an EPD-approved lab confirmed no fuel contamination, and all samples met safe drinking water standards. Based on these results, EPD and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved lifting the advisory.

The City understands some residents may still notice faint odors. Crews continue to monitor the system, flush hydrants where appropriate, and respond to odor reports. These reports have helped guide targeted monitoring and flushing efforts. Click the link to watch the full update: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EEfki4KWY/ 

UPDATE (10:15pm on 1/30/2026): The Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources has lifted the Do Not Consume Water Advisory based on the testing results. The City of Griffin appreciates the cooperation and patience of our community during this precautionary advisory. Protecting public health remains our top priority, and the advisory was issued and lifted in coordination with state environmental officials to ensure the safety of our water system. Click the link to watch the full update from City Manager Jessica O'Connor: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DUyKwq8Dw/

UPDATE (1/31/2026): The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) lifted the Do Not Consume Water Advisory for the City of Griffin after laboratory testing confirmed no fuel contamination in the City’s water system on Friday, January 30, 2026. The advisory was issued as a precautionary measure, out of an abundance of caution, while testing was conducted to protect public health. At no point did testing indicate confirmed contamination, and the advisory was lifted immediately after results confirmed that the water met all safe drinking water standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do residents need to flush household water lines?
No. Flushing is not necessary at this time. Testing confirmed that there is no fuel present, and the water meets all drinking water safety parameters.

Do appliances need to be flushed or reset (refrigerators, ice makers, dishwashers, coffee makers)?
No additional steps are required. Since testing confirmed no contamination, appliances may be used normally.

Is the water safe for children and pets?
Yes. The water is safe for normal use and consumption for all citizens, including young children and pets.

What if my water has an odor or discoloration?
Please report any issues to the City of Griffin Water and Wastewater Department at 770-229-6423 or call the City of Griffin After Hours line at 770-229-6406 and press 6 for water management assistance. Water professionals will assess the situation and determine if flushing is needed to address odors or discoloration.

Why was a State of Emergency declared?
The Governor, along with Spalding County and the City of Griffin, issued a State of Emergency as a proactive planning measure in case testing confirmed contamination and the community needed to prepare for a prolonged water disruption. Thankfully, testing confirmed the water was safe, and those emergency measures were not needed.

Will there be a credit on the water portion of my bill?
Standard billing procedures remain in place. The advisory was precautionary and issued to protect public health while testing was completed.

The City of Griffin appreciates the patience, cooperation, and support of our citizens, businesses, and community partners throughout this process. Protecting public health and maintaining transparency remain our top priorities, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve our community with care and caution.

The City of Griffin has issued a Do Not Consume Water Advisory as a precautionary measure due to a potential contamination source impacting the Flint River.

Earlier today, the City was notified of a fuel spill originating near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport that reached the Flint River. While initial information indicated the spill had not reached the area of Griffin’s water intakes, the City immediately shut down all Flint River intakes out of an abundance of caution and began producing water solely from the Dr. Brant D. Keller Reservoir located in Pike County. The Dr. Brant D. Keller Reservoir is not affected by this contamination.

As an additional precaution, the Harry Simmons Water Treatment Plant has been shut down. Multiple fire hydrants are being flushed throughout the system to help clear the water. City of Griffin staff have collected water samples from multiple locations, including the finished water tap at the Harry Simmons Water Treatment Plant, a consumer’s tap, and the Flint River. These samples have been sent to Eurofins for laboratory analysis. Additional sampling will continue over the next several days.

Until further notice, customers are advised not to drink, cook with, or brush teeth using tap water. Bottled water should be used for all consumption purposes. Boiling the water will not make it safe for consumption.

Please report any taste or odor issues to the City of Griffin Water and Wastewater Department at 770-229-6423 or call the City of Griffin After Hours at 770-229-6406 and press 6 for help with water management.

The City of Griffin is committed to protecting public health and safety and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available and test results are received.