FOND DU LAC – Heavy rain April 14-15 prompted the City of Fond du Lac to divert wastewater into storm sewer pipes at six locations, sending highly diluted, untreated water to nearby creeks, rivers and storm ponds, city officials said.
Wastewater bypass locations and timing
The bypass occurred from about 3 a.m. April 14 through 11 p.m. April 15, with diverted flow discharging to local waterways and storm ponds.
What this means for community members
The city said the wastewater was untreated but so heavily diluted it does not pose a public health threat.
Residents should avoid contact with visibly dirty or fast-moving water when possible and keep pets out of standing water near storm drains and waterways following major storms, the city said.
City response and how to report issues
City staff monitored standing-water complaints and tracked water levels in the Fond du Lac River and other water bodies.
Officials said the storm sewer system was not designed for storms this extreme, and they ask residents to notify Public Works if a storm drain appears obstructed. Public Works can be reached at 920-322-3470.
The city also encourages residents to “Adopt a Storm Drain” near their home, school or workplace to help keep debris out and protect water quality.
As required, the event was reported to the area Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources engineer, according to the city.
Contact Brandon Reid at breid@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Fond du Lac Reporter: Heavy rain led Fond du Lac to divert wastewater to waterways
Reporting by Brandon Reid, Fond du Lac Reporter / Fond du Lac Reporter
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
