CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte Water crews say around 3,600 gallons of wastewater overflow reached Little Hope Creek in the Catawba River Watershed due to heavy rains on November 12th.
“A majority of wastewater overflows can be prevented with your help,” says 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.”
Officials say any owner or operator of a wastewater collection or treatment works must issue a news release when 1,000 or more gallons of untreated wastewater reaches the surface.
Charlotte Water crews provide us with these helpful tips:
- Toss in the trash: paper towels, wipes, hair, cotton swabs, feminine products, dental floss, coffee grounds, and excess food.
- Toss in the toilet: toilet paper only!
- Kitchen sink: soap suds, small amounts of food from plates, and liquids (not including fats, oils, or grease)
- Take to a full-service recycling center: used and expired oils and grease.
Charlotte Water officials say to click here to learn more.
