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Sanitary Sewer Pipe Connected to Stormwater Pipe
Problem
During routine road repair, City staff detected a septic odor emanating from
a storm drain. Further investigation uncovered that a sanitary sewer
pipe had been accidentally connected to the stormwater drainage pipes. Unlike
sanitary wastewater, which goes to the wastewater treatment plant and is treated
prior to discharge, stormwater pipes drain directly to the waterways (i.e.
streams, wetlands, and the lake). This discharge had been occurring
from 1994 until it was fixed in 2006!
Description
Immediately upon discovery the homeowners were notified of the problem. The
pipes were dug up and re-connected to the correct pipe system. Investigation
of nearby outfall pipes was undertaken to ensure that no other illicit connections
had been made in the area.
Benefit
Proper connection of the pipes will ensure that the sanitary wastewater will
be sent to the wastewater treatment plant prior to discharge to surface waters. Subsequent
monitoring has shown reduced pollution at this outfall. In addition, plumbing
problems previously reported by the homeowner were resolved during the work.
Total Project Value
~$12,000
Timeline
2006
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