The Rabun County Water and Sewer Authority (RCWSA) has been implementing a necessary and important preventative maintenance program for water storage tank maintenance and rehabilitation. Our water storage tanks not only enable us to maintain a supply of drinking water and fire protection for customers, but also to distribute that supply using gravity, a much more cost-efficient way to move water. Regular tank maintenance is vital for many reasons. First, it helps ensure quality drinking water that is both safe and good tasting. Tank cleaning removes sediment, mineral deposits, and organic matter that can cause unpleasant tastes, odors, and possible health risks. Second, it ensures adequate fire protection. Also, well maintained water tanks have a longer lifespan, which reduces the costs of repair and replacement. Neglecting maintenance can lead to corrosion, rust, and structural damage. Routine inspections and cleaning help detect and repair leaks, coating damage, or material deterioration early, preventing costly replacements and downtime. Furthermore, maintaining all aspects of our water system’s infrastructure supports the efficiency of the system, enabling reliable flow and performance along with meeting compliance and safety standards.

The RCWSA’s Big Screamer Tank, located on Knots Lane, has recently been completely refurbished. American Tank Maintenance was contracted to clean, repair and recoat the tank’s interior and exterior to bring it back up to peak performance. In addition to the tank’s structural renovation, our own RCWSA crews installed a new valving system to allow the RCWSA’s water operators at the water treatment plants to control flows in and out of the tank to more efficiently operate the tank and allow more detailed leak detection by isolating the tank. This project was begun in April of 2026 and completed in late May 2026. This year’s cost for the Big Screamer Tank Project was $87,000 with funding provided through SPLOST 8 Water and Sewer Funds and RCWSA’s Operating Revenue. Other tanks that are slated to be rehabilitated include the Buzzards Roost Tank, the Mountain City Tank, the Parkdale Tank and the South Tiger Tank.

These projects are just a few examples of how the RCWSA works diligently, putting your rate dollars and SPLOST 8 Funds back into the water system for capital improvements, upgrades and maintenance. These projects provide water customers and the Rabun County Community with an exceptional water system that protects public health, ensures quality, reliable drinking water, provides fire protection and preserves our vital water supply for generations to come.