Industrial Discharges
As we target each sub-watershed our staff Riverkeeper and prosecuting attorney review the Clean Water Act permits for "point source" industrial dischargers. The Tennessee Riverkeeper also addresses other issues that arise and responds to citizen complaints. The Riverkeeper fields complaints in person, via telephone, and on our online pollution report form.
In addition to monitoring the discharge monitoring reports found within these pollution permits, the Tennessee Riverkeeper uses emerging technology to investigate “at the pipe” discharge problems which may have evaded self-monitoring. We look for and address industrial discharges as we patrol on the water, on the ground, and from the air. We utilize aerial surveillance. SouthWings, Inc., a non-profit organization, and their volunteer air-force have agreed to provide pro-bono flight support.
An example of work in this campaign was Tennessee Riverkeeper's opposition to a proposed TEPPCO Fuel Depot in Decatur, Alabama 1,000 yards upstream of Morgan County drinking water intake. A video posted to Tennessee Riverkeeper's YouTube channel helped generate awareness about this issue:
