“An act of God” storm, says the sewer boss

Chris Eleazer, executive director of the Oconee Joint Regional Sewer Authority, has provided the following update on Helene’s impact on county sewage treatment:

 

• The treatment plant was placed back into operation this morning around 8:30. We are currently treating 4,070 gallons per minute (approximately 5.86 million gallons per day). The plant has continued to meet or exceed all permitted limits for all water that has been processed at the facility. As expected, there is a lot of grit (sand, silt, etc.) in the flow coming into the plant. We’re removing what is in the water but know we will need to clean wet wells and tanks once we are back to normal operations.
• We are still storing over 10 million gallons on- and offsite. We are treating this flow as we are able.
• Since the creek flows have receded, we are now able to place some of the pump stations back into operation.
• We are considering having staff begin assessing the easements and aerial lines today. The reason this is a difficult decision to make is because we know the ground in these areas will be saturated and it will be extremely difficult to traverse without getting frequently stuck. I will keep you posted on what we ultimately decide to do with the next update.
• Overflows at the treatment plant have ceased with the startup of the facility. Staff are assessing conditions in the field when checking/starting pump stations. I will provide an update on any overflows later today once staff return from the field to resupply and have lunch.
• The following advisories and requests shall continue to remain in place for the foreseeable future:
  • People and pets should avoid contact with all floodwaters and waterbodies in the area due to potential wastewater contamination or other hazards.
  • If customers observe an overflow, they should avoid the area and notify the OJRSA by calling 864-972-3900.

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