More than 1,200 gallons of wastewater reaches Kings Branch in Catawba River Watershed

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte Water says more than 1,200 gallons of untreated wastewater reached Kings Branch in the Catawba River Watershed.

Charlotte Water crews say they responded to a wastewater overflow near 10706 Old Nations Ford Road on 9/11/2025. Officials say an estimated 1,245 gallons reached Kings Branch in the Catawba River Watershed. A blockage of debris (sand) caused the overflow, according to a news release.

“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.”

How You Can Help:

  • Toss in the trash: paper towels, wipes, hair, cotton swabs, feminine products, dental floss, coffee grounds, and excess food.
  • Toss in the toilet: only toilet paper.
  • Kitchen sink:soap suds, small amounts of foods from plate, and liquids (no fats, oils, or grease).
  • Take to a full-service recycling center: used and expired oils and grease.

Suspect A Sewage Spill? Call 311 or 704-336-7600.

Charlotte Water crews maintain more than 4,562 miles of wastewater pipe. Charges from monthly water bills fund preventative maintenance, emergency response, and the safe daily delivery of more than 91 million gallons of wastewater to treatment plants, where wastewater is treated to high water quality standards and released back into our waterways.

To learn more go to www.charlottewater.org