Pueblo Sewage Spill Prompts Arkansas River Recreation Warning - La Junta Drinking Water Safe

Description: A Pueblo sewage spill into the Arkansas River has prompted recreation warnings through Aug. 31. La Junta officials say the city’s drinking water remains safe. Read the Full Statement from the City of La Junta...

The City of Pueblo experienced a discharge of untreated sewage into the Arkansas River near Confluence Park on August 27, 2026. The discharge was halted by 11:45am.

Discharges of raw sewage into waterways like the Arkansas River can cause contamination with harmful bacteria, influence aquatic life, and cause health issues if not managed properly.

Individuals enjoying recreation in the Arkansas River like fishing, kayaking, or other activities are encouraged to avoid these activities through Monday, August 31, 2026.

The following communities could be impacted by this issue: Avondale, Boone, Fowler, Manzanola, Rocky Ford, Swink, La Junta, and Las Animas.

The City of Pueblo is working with additional county and state agencies to monitor the water quality of the Arkansas River.

La Junta's drinking water is drawn from Arkansas River alluvial wells and treated using micro-filtration/reverse osmosis and chlorine disinfection before distribution. This process, along with water first needing to pass through natural alluvial soils prior to being pumped from our wells, ensures no harmful contaminates from this spill can be introduced into our drinking water supply.

The City of La Junta will continue to monitor this situation and post additional information if necessary.

Please contact the Water Department at 719.384.7358 if you have any questions.

Tom Seaba

Director of Water & Wastewater

City of La Junta

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