Andrea Dietrich recognized by Governor Glenn Youngkin for her service following drinking water incident in Orange County, Virginia.
Orange Country Virginia was issued a “do not use water” advisory on August 21, 2024 when residents noticed a petroleum-like odor in their water. The Virginia Department of Health consulted with Andrea Dietrich, professor in civil and environmental engineering, to provide professional guidance. Her research expertise focuses on drinking water quality, treatment, and infrastructure. She specifically studies tastes and odors in drinking water.
Dietrich noted in this article in Charlottesville Tomorrow that finding the source of odd tastes and odors in water can be challenging when it is unclear what is causing it.
The Virginia Department of Health and Rapidan Service Authority traced the issue to the Wilderness Water Treatment Plant. A series of pump failures released mineral oil into the water, likely causing the odor. The issue has now been resolved and residents are able to drink and cook with the water again.
Following the investigation, Governor Glenn Youngkin recognized Dietrich for her “unwavering commitment to ensuring the health and safety of those living in the community.”