Sanitary Sewer Overflow, Sept. 18

News release City of Coos Bay.  Friday, Sept. 15, the City of Coos Bay experienced a sanitary sewer overflow that was created by a blockage in the system caused by grease.  The grease blockage resulted in sewer backing up and overflowing at a manhole located on Lakeshore Drive, east of North Morrison Street.  The crews mobilized quickly to clean the site and prevented 50 gallons from entering the storm sewer system; but unfortunately, an estimation of 600 gallons was spilled.  When the blockage was cleared from the sanitary sewer line, the overflow ceased. This storm sewer system ultimately outfalls to Chickses Creek.  This overflow was reported to Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Oregon Emergency Response System, and Oregon Department of Agriculture. Blockages in sanitary sewer systems can be caused for a number of reasons.  However, most blockages are due to items and material that do not belong in the sewer system.  These items are commonly fats, oil, and grease (FOG) that are animal and vegetable-based.  Over time, FOG that enters into the system via a kitchen sink can build up in the sanitary sewer system.  This build up will result in constricting flow and can cause overflows and impacts and interferes with the treatment process at the plant.  You can help eliminate this problem by properly disposing of cooking oil and grease.  You can place cooled cooking oil, poultry fats, and meat fats in a sealed non-recyclable container and discard with your regular garbage.  You can also use paper towels to wipe residual grease or oil off dishes, pots, and pans prior to washing them.  These easy practices can have a big impact on the entire City sewer system! Any questions can be directed to the City of Coos Bay Public Works & Community Development Department at (541) 269-8918.