WSSC Responds to On-Property Wastewater Overflow at Piscataway Water Resource Recovery Facility

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Drinking Water System NOT Impacted

Laurel, Md. – May 22, 2018 – (RealEstateRama) — WSSC experienced an on-property wastewater overflow at its Piscataway Water Resource Recovery Facility formerly known as a wastewater treatment plant) on Farmington Road in Accokeek. The overflow started at 10:47 p.m. on Friday, May 18 and ended today, May 21 at 1:01 p.m.

WSSC

It is important to note that WSSC’s water and wastewater systems are separate. This overflow is NOT affecting WSSC’s drinking water.

Due to last week’s significant rainfall, WSSC diverted partially treated wastewater to an on-property lined containment pond. The overflow occurred when the wastewater flowed out of the lined containment pond into an adjacent unlined containment pond. These onsite ponds were specifically designed to keep overflows on property during heavy rain events. Working as designed, no wastewater left the plant’s property. However, because the partially treated wastewater entered the unlined pond, it is considered an overflow.

Early calculations indicate the overflow was approximately 11 million gallons. WSSC is now in the process of diverting the partially treated wastewater from the unlined pond back to the plant for full treatment.

As a precaution, WSSC has posted signs around the area and appropriate notifications have been made to the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Prince George’s County Health Department.

WSSC is committed to protecting the health of the public and the environment. With more than 5,500 miles of sewer mains throughout its service area, WSSC appreciates notifications from citizens if a sewer overflow or water main break is suspected. Citizens can call WSSC’s 24-hour Emergency Call Center at 301-206-4002 to report water or sewer emergencies in Prince George’s or Montgomery counties.  Customers can also report emergencies via email at "> and those customers who have smart phones can report emergencies using the WSSC Mobile App.

For 100 years, WSSC has proudly served the citizens of Prince George’s and Montgomery counties – providing drinking water that has always met strict Safe Drinking Water Act standards and protecting the environment through vital water resource recovery services. Our vision is to be THE world-class water utility, where excellent products and services are always on tap.

Contact
Jerry Irvine

301.206.4002

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