Water That Smells, Stains, and Frustrates
Residents across Pender County are still dealing with tap water that is discolored, foul-smelling, and damaging to appliances—issues that have lingered for years despite repeated reports to utility providers.
In the Emerald Ridge neighborhood, one resident, Greg Lovell, described, “The water was brown and discolored all the time and smelled with a distinct odor… I can’t even take a shower.” Neighbors say they have made multiple complaints to Carolina Water Service, but the problem persists.
WyndWater Residents See Muddy Water—and Rising Costs
In Hampstead’s WyndWater community, residents report similar problems. Stacy Smith noted, “It tasted awful… filling up the tub, I noticed it was a yellowish brown color.” Matthew Buckingham and his family spend over $100 per month on bottled water. “It’s destroying our appliances… everything comes out filmy and gross,” said neighbor Bonnie Santos.
According to Pender County Utilities, the causes include hydraulic inconsistencies along the Highway 17 corridor, aging infrastructure, newly added wells with elevated iron levels, and operational changes tied to bypass construction. The utility says it is flushing lines, cycling tanks, and increasing water quality monitoring in response.
Past Advisories Still in Memory
Although no official advisories are in place now, past events remain fresh in residents’ minds. A July 2025 boil-water notice followed a water main break, and earlier advisories—such as the 2024 break near Rocky Point—serve as reminders of how quickly service can be disrupted.
Recognition vs. Real-World Complaints
In December 2024, the Pender County Utilities Surface Water Treatment Plant received a statewide award for exceeding water quality standards—particularly for turbidity removal. That recognition, however, stands in stark contrast to persistent complaints from residents in multiple neighborhoods.
What Residents Can Do
- Report persistent discoloration or odor immediately to Pender County Utilities.
- Run cold water for several minutes before using tap water for drinking or bathing.
- Consider a certified water filter if water appears discolored or metallic.
- Engage local leadership—several residents have petitioned commissioners for clear timelines and infrastructure upgrades.
Why It Matters to Local Communities
Pender County is growing fast. As demand rises, aging pipes and under-capacity systems struggle to keep pace. For residents who expect safe, clean water that doesn’t stain clothing or damage appliances, the solution will require long-term infrastructure investments—not just short-term fixes.
