180,000 Gallons Of Wastewater Has Spilled Into Sugar Creek Watershed

CHARLOTTE, NC — Charlotte Water says an estimated 180,000 gallons of wastewater has spilled into Kings Branch, which is a tributary to Sugar Creek in the Catawba River Watershed.

Photo Credit: Catawba Riverkeeper

Officials say the spill was caused by a break in the main sewer pipe, which has been fixed, but they are not exactly sure what caused the break.

“A majority of wastewater overflows can be prevented with your help,” said Cam Coley, spokesperson at Charlotte Water. “Anything put in plumbing or a manhole can cause wastewater overflows, spilling raw sewage into your street, your creek or even inside your own home. Even products labeled as ‘flushable’ do not breakdown in the sewer system and can contribute to clogging.”

The Catawba Riverkeeper says there are serious public health concerns for recreation this weekend occurring downstream of where Sugar Creek meets the Catawba River. Areas downstream of the spill include the Catawba Indian, Landsford Canal and Highway 9 access points. The Lake Wylie dam and Riverwalk areas in Rock Hill are upstream and unaffected.