Brown water and boil notices: Small towns struggle with failing water systems

By: Elise Plunk, Lucas Dufalla, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Phillip Powell, Arkansas Times

Outlets: Louisiana Illuminator

Published: February 23, 2026

Words: 2,126

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 4 days ago

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TALLULAH, La., and COTTON PLANT, Ark. — The water looked like coffee as it ran from the tap.

Even simple chores like laundry and dishwashing became nearly impossible, the water running like a medium roast brew from the faucet into the sink of Donald Wood’s home, staining clothes and appliances.

“I can’t recall the number of times I’ve driven to Vicksburg and rented a motel room just to take a shower,” Wood said, a …

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