Sewage Advisory: Crews respond to sewage release in NW Portland

At approximately 10:40 am on February 12, City crews responded to reports of a sewage release from a broken pipe near 2600 NW Beuhla Vista Terrace near its intersection with NW MacLeay Blvd. As a precaution, the public is advised to follow posted signage in the area.

The overflow was caused by a local excavation project that damaged a sewer line. Crews are working to identify the sewage release, clear the sewer main, and restore service. Crews estimate that 600 gallons overflowed the pipe so far, but all sewage currently remains in the excavation hole. 

As a precaution, maintenance crews have placed warning signs near the release. The public should obey posted signs in the area.

Environmental Services reminds the public that most are preventable. The most common causes of sewage releases 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. 

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.