City crews responded Wednesday afternoon to a report of sewage flowing onto a parking lot at 1555 N Tomahawk Island Dr in the Jantzen Beach Center. The overflow is occurring from a private sewer line and is ongoing at the time of this advisory being issued.
As a precaution, the public is advised to follow posted signage and stay away from the immediate overflow area. The cause of the overflow is unknown at this time, and resolution is pending actions taken by the property owner.
Sewage overflows often are preventable. Pipes that become blocked with grease, tree roots, and debris are the most common cause of sewage overflows. Environmental Services advises the public to prevent clogs and protect public health, property, and our environment by following these tips:
- Place grease in a container and then in the trash, not down kitchen drains. Food establishments are required to take additional measures to prevent grease from entering sewer lines.
- Avoid flushing rags, wipes, or anything other than toilet paper and human waste.
- Outside the home, avoid pouring anything down storm drains, which are intended for rainfall only.
To report sewage odors, which may indicate a sewage release, call the City’s maintenance hotline at 503-823-1700. That line is operated all hours, all days.
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Environmental Services protects public health and our environment as Portland’s sewer and stormwater utility. We collect and recover resources from wastewater. We prevent pollution and flooding from stormwater. We protect and restore Portland’s rivers, streams, and watersheds for all Portlanders — now and for future generations. Follow our news on Twitter @BESPortland and portland.gov/BES/news