Water fluoridation temporarily suspended during optimization work

CAPE FEAR, NC (WWAY) — Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) has temporarily suspended the addition of fluoride to treated drinking water.

The suspension comes as staff works to upgrade and optimize the feed process at its Sweeny and Richardson water treatment plants.

Fluoridation stopped on December 12th and is expected to remain suspended until the work is completed.

CFPUA says they follow federal and State recommendations to add fluoride to drinking water after treatment and prior to distribution as a public health measure to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is maintained at a concentration of about 0.7 ppm.