UPDATE: All Clear Following Sewer Overflow Event

SEASIDE, Ore. – Feb. 2, 2024 – The City of Seaside, in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ), issued an all-clear notice today following sanitary sewer overflows resulting from sustained and heavy precipitation in the region. Excess water caused the wastewater treatment system to begin overflowing into points of the Necanicum River and Neawann Creek on Jan. 22 and, as a result, the city asked residents to avoid direct contact with waterways. In total, approximately 14.7 million gallons of diluted sewage overflowed the system and entered the waterways during this event.

Testing of the two waterways indicate levels have now returned to normal. Regular monitoring of bacteria levels began on Jan. 22. The City works closely with ODEQ to monitor the river and creek following any release of sewage.

Going Forward – Help Us Protect Waterways

Any heavy rainfall event with overland flooding limits the sewer system’s ability to convey water to the treatment plant. There are many ways to make a difference during periods of excessive rainfall or flooding. Less water added to the system equals less pollution.

Here are a few ways you can reduce water use during weather events:

• Choose a shower over a bath, and opt for a quick shower.
• Delay washing clothes until the situation improves.
• Only flush the toilet when necessary during storms.

**end of updated release, original release follows**

SEASIDE, Ore. – Jan. 22, 2024 – Due to precipitation, tidal influences and snow melt in the region, the City of Seaside wastewater treatment system began overflowing into Neawanna Creek on Monday, Jan. 22.

The City is asking residents to avoid direct contact with waterways as raw sewage may be hazardous to health. Regular monitoring of bacteria levels has begun and will continue until levels return to baseline. The spill has been reported to the Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) and local media have been notified.

Where is the overflow located?
The sanitary sewer system is overflowing from a manhole on N. Wahanna Rd near Shore Terrace. This overflow eventually enters Neawanna Creek.

How much is overflowing?
An estimated 50 gallons per minute is overflowing. This may be revised as the event is ongoing.

How did this overflow happen?
Heavy rainfall, high tides, and snow/ice melt from recent storms has overwhelmed the sewer at the N. Wahanna Rd location.

When will the overflow stop?
The sewage system will catch up when the rain and runoff stops or slows for long enough. City staff will test the river and report results to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ), who will ultimately issue an all clear.

How is an overflow remedied?
The flushing action of rushing water in the river will clean up the overflow. Testing will monitor the return to baseline. 

Additional information will be provided in an updated release after the overflow has ceased.

**end of release**