Wastewater Collection
This program provides maintenance, installation and replacement of the sewer collection system including proactive preventative line cleaning, root control and video inspection of the collection system. The division maintains seventeen sewer lift stations, installs minor main line extensions and new customer connections.
HOW DOES A WASTEWATER (SEWER) SYSTEM WORK
A typical wastewater system is constructed of a network of pipes, laterals and mains connecting to each building and transporting wastewater to a wastewater treatment plant (Elk River Wastewater Treatment Plant).
A property owner’s wastewater pipe is called a sewer lateral and connects to a larger city-maintained pipe called a sewer main typically located in the street.
REMEMBER: PREVENTION IS THE ANSWER!
Prevent household sewer system mishaps! Regular maintenance, no kitchen grease down the drains and periodic inspections by a licensed plumber.
Contact:
Brian Issa
Deputy Director of Public Works - Field Operations Division
(707) 441-4290
Daniel Vit
Field Superintendent
(707) 832-5111
- Environment
- How do I prevent a sewer backup?As soon as you notice slow-running drains you should stop using your home's drainage fixtures. Give us a call and we will come out. If we find a sewer main blockage, we will open it. If the problem is in your sewer lateral, call your plumber to clear the blockage before it gets bad enough to become a backup.
Roots, grease and debris are the most common cause of blocked sewers. Take these precautions:
- Roots: Don’t plant trees or large shrubs near sewer lines. Roots grow toward breaks and cracks in lines in search of a ready water source. If roots get inside the pipe, they form balls that clog the line.
- Grease: Dispose of grease and fats with your trash – not down the drain! Grease in drains collects and hardens into a plug.
- Illegal plumbing connections: Don’t connect French drains, sump pumps and other flood control systems to your sanitary sewer. It’s illegal and debris and silt will clog your line. Consult a plumber to undo any illegal connect
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- How do I prevent a sewer backup?