Sanitary Sewage Release Advisory (this is not a combined sewer overflow [CSO] advisory)

(September 14, 2018) - A sewer line clogged with rags and other debris overflowed yesterday afternoon on the 5200 block of NE Glisan Street. 

The sewage was largely contained in a street planter, preventing a further discharge to the street. The release of about 1,700 gallons began around 4 p.m. and sewer maintenance crews stopped the flow about 5:45 p.m.  Crews cleaned up the release and posted warning signs around the affected area. The signs will remain in place for about 48 hours. 

Sewage overflows often are preventable. Pipes that become blocked with grease, tree roots, and debris are the most common cause of sewage overflows. Environmental Services advises the public not to flush rags or wipes or anything other than toilet paper and human waste. Place grease in a container and then in the trash, not down kitchen drains. Outside the home, do  not pour anything down storm drains, which are intended for rainfall only. 

The Bureau of Environmental Services provides city residents with programs to protect water quality and public health, including wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration. www.portlandoregon.gov/bes and @BESPortland.

 Media contact: Diane Dulken, 503-457-7636,  diane.dulken@portlandoregon.gov