News

Sanitary Sewer Overflows September 20, 2017

Last Friday morning (September 15, 2017), the City of Coos Bay experienced a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO). The overflow was caused by a blockage in the system produced 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 and cleaned the site quickly and prevented 50 gallons from entering the storm sewer system.  An estimation of 600 gallons were spilled. This storm sewer system ultimately outfalls to Chickses Creek. Since raw sewage was not contained within the sanitary system, this is considered a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO). This overflow was reported to Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Oregon Emergency Response System, and Oregon Department of Agriculture. When the blockage was cleared from the sanitary sewer line, the overflow ceased.

Blockages in sanitary sewer systems can be caused due to several reasons.  However, most blockages are a result of items and material being present that do not belong in the sewer. The most common of these items are 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 that ultimately interfere 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 preventative practices can have a significant impact!

Our City Council is aware that FOG can impact the sewer system and they are working on a FOG prevention program, which is anticipated to be adopted next year. This program will be aimed at establishments that prepare food. The goal of this program will be to work with owners of these establishments and help them figure out ways to reduce the introduction of FOG to the sewer system. More information will follow in the upcoming months.  

Fats and Oils warning graphic