City officials in North Bend are warning residents after several cases of suspected illegal sewage dumping were found in the city’s wastewater system.
Staff at the city’s wastewater treatment plant recently identified several instances where waste from septic tanks or portable toilets was allegedly dumped directly into manholes, according to city officials.
The practice is illegal and poses serious risks to public health, the environment, and critical infrastructure.
Untreated waste entering the system can overwhelm or kill the biological organisms that break down sewage during the treatment process, according to the city. If those systems fail, the city could face permit violations and potential harm to nearby waterways.
The impact isn’t limited to water quality. Because the waste is not screened or inspected before entering the system, it can contain contaminants that damage pumps and other equipment throughout the sewer network and treatment plant. Repairs tied to that kind of damage can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, officials said.
City leaders are now asking the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.
Anyone who sees a septic truck, portable toilet service vehicle, or other hauler dumping waste into a manhole or storm drain is urged to call the wastewater treatment plant’s emergency line immediately at 425-765-0531.
If it is safe to do so, officials ask residents to note details such as the company name on the vehicle, license plate number, time, and location. However, residents should not approach or confront anyone involved.
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