The Crossville Chronicle reports that, at the August Cumberland Plateau Water Authority meeting, Steve Stone raised concerns about drought planning, emphasizing the need for a public education program to address water conservation in Cumberland County.

He noted the unique water challenges on the Cumberland Plateau, where water originates solely from rainfall, and highlighted that Otter Creek, the authority’s primary water source, would recover slowest after a drought compared to Meadow Park Lake and Lake Holiday. Authority member Dyer acknowledged that all local utilities have adopted the city’s drought plan and mentioned a forthcoming connection with Crossville in 2026 to bolster water supply.

However, he stressed that this measure wouldn’t fully address issues driven by rapid population growth, underscoring the need for a new reservoir and water supply. Earlier in the meeting, the board also unanimously approved a policy change allowing Crab Orchard Utility District employees to take flexible vacation time instead of a full day.