Lake Hickory swim beach reopens after more than 6K gallons of untreated wastewater spilled

Lake Hickory swim beach reopens after more than 6K gallons of untreated wastewater spilled reports that a swim beach in Alexander County reopened after an untreated wastewater spill. Local officials said Sunday, June 29, that 6,080 gallons spilled into the Wittenburg Access boat ramp and swim beach in Bethlehem on Lake Hickory. By Tuesday, July 7, water quality tests showed results sufficient to reopen the area starting Tuesday, and it was set to remain open through the rest of the week, including Wednesday when it typically closes. Hickory city officials said the spill was caused by a failure of pump station equipment and that repairs were completed. Alexander County officials also reported on Tuesday, July 1, that water levels showed slightly elevated bacteria. The Wittenburg Access site is near the point where Alexander, Caldwell and Catawba counties meet.