BJWSA says Parris Island overflow a result of a power outage
From staff reports
As of Tuesday morning, Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority (BJWSA) crews were still responding and taking appropriate cleanup and repair action after an estimated 6,800 gallons of wastewater was released from the Parris Island sanitary sewer system into the Beaufort River on Thursday, Aug. 27.
The overflow, which occurred near the boat landing, was due to a power failure at the PI01 sewer pump station. Signs were posted in the area to inform the public.
BJWSA notified the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), and is working in conjunction with DHEC to address any effects caused by the overflow.
Director of Public Affairs Pamela Flasch said Saturday that, “We are continually sampling the Beaufort River until we have satisfied our sampling criteria required with DHEC.”
SCDHEC is evaluating the effects of the overflow on the shellfish harvesting areas located in the area of the overflow and has issued shellfish and swim advisories, which are in effect until lab results confirm acceptable bacterial levels.
BJWSA operations crews monitor the wastewater collection system. These crews maintain the sewer lines to ensure the safe daily delivery of an average of 9 million gallons of wastewater to eight area wastewater treatment facilities for treatment and disposal.
If you see or suspect any type of spill from the sewer collection system, please contact BJWSA at 987-9200. For more information, visit www.bjwsa.org.
