Divers conducting routine maintenance at the J.B. Converse Reservoir dam discovered a grenade-type improvised explosive device underwater, prompting a swift multi-agency response that resulted in the device’s safe removal and detonation, officials said.
The Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS) announced Tuesday that the Gulf Coast Regional Maritime Response and Render-Safe Team retrieved and detonated the IED at the federally designated critical infrastructure site. The 3,600-acre Converse Reservoir, also known as Big Creek Lake, holds approximately 17 billion gallons of water and serves as the primary drinking water source for about 350,000 residents in the Mobile area.
Divers located the device during a standard survey for repairs and maintenance. MAWSS immediately notified the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, which coordinated a response involving the FBI Bomb Squad, Mobile Police Department Explosive Ordnance Detail, ALEA Bomb Squad, Daphne Search and Rescue Team, and other agencies. The Department of Homeland Security was also informed of the incident.
MAWSS Director Bud McCrory described the discovery as an “unprecedented threat” and praised the rapid response.“
Our top priority is keeping your drinking water safe,” McCrory said. “This is an unprecedented threat, and we are fortunate that this device was discovered before it could cause serious damage to our water supply or harm to individuals. We are grateful for the professionalism and competency of our law enforcement partners — as well as the quick thinking of our contractors and divers — in identifying this device and safely destroying it.”
Officials confirmed there was no damage to the dam or contamination of the water supply. MAWSS plans to increase security measures around the reservoir in response to the incident. Authorities have not released information on any suspects, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The Converse Reservoir dam is one of several critical water infrastructure facilities across the United States that receive heightened federal protection.
Hellbound and Down 