Sewage Advisory: Crews respond to sewage release in NE Portland

At approximately 3:30 pm on March 6, City crews responded to reports of a sewage release from maintenance holes near NE Meadow Drive and NE 13^th Ave. Crews identified the sewage release and determined that some of the release entered Columbia Slough drainage ditches.

City maintenance crews have placed warning signs near the spill. As a precaution, the public is advised to avoid contact with Columbia Slough drainage ditches in that area through 3:30 pm on Saturday, March 8, because of the possibility of increased bacteria in the water.

The overflow has been stopped, and crews estimate 500 gallons overflowed. 

The cause of the overflow was determined to be an equipment failure in a nearby pump station. The area has been cleaned, and service has been restored.

Although this sewage release was due to equipment failure, Environmental Services reminds the public that most sewage releases are preventable. The most common causes of sewage overflows are pipes clogged with household debris, such as cooking grease that is sent down kitchen drains or wet wipes that are flushed. Both belong in the trash, not down the drain. Tree roots are another common cause. 

Environmental Services advises the public to follow these tips to prevent clogs and overflows in homes and businesses and to prevent sewage releases:

• Only flush human waste and toilet paper (wet wipes are NOT flushable).
• Never pour grease down drains: Collect grease, oil, and fat in a can and then into the garbage. Grease that is liquid when poured down drains will become solid once in pipes.
• Don’t put anything down storm drains, which are intended for rainfall only. 

If you experience or see a sewer overflow, contact the City’s hotline at any hour of the day at 503-823-1700.  

About Environmental Services
Environmental Services - the City of Portland’s sewer and stormwater utility - protects public health and the environment by collecting and recovering resources from the city’s wastewater, managing stormwater, and restoring and protecting Portland’s rivers, streams, and watersheds.