ORANGE COUNTY, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) – The Rapidan Service Authority (RSA), in consultation with the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Office of Drinking Water (ODW), is lifting the drinking water advisory.

A multi-agency investigation led by VDH ODW found that the warning remains valid.

Laboratory sample data over several days consistently demonstrated that the drinking water fully complies with federal and state drinking water standards. This data was reviewed by ODW’s subject matter experts, toxicologists, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 3 staff.

Daily inspections of the water treatment plant and distribution system by VDH confirmed that the unpleasant odor of drinking water in the water treatment plant is no longer present and has dissipated sufficiently in the distribution system so that it is no longer a cause for concern.

Despite the best efforts of several government agencies to determine the source or cause of the odor, it could not be determined. Certified laboratories were unable to identify any contaminants that would explain the odor. VDH ODW will monitor any new developments that warrant investigation or follow-up.

All VDH-approved food establishments are permitted to reopen. The Orange County Health Department (OCHD) Food Safety Team will provide guidelines via email regarding the reopening of food establishments. Members of the OCHD Food Safety Team will visit approved establishments to inquire and answer questions about food safety and reopening.

RSA recommends that customers who still notice an odor flush their taps. Instructions on how to do this can be found on the RSA website. If customers still notice an odor after flushing their taps, they should report it using the contact form at https://ow.ly/to2F50T7Hva. This information will enable a more efficient and targeted response.