WALDORF, MARYLAND (MONDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2005) * In accordance with the guidelines established by the Maryland Department of the Environment, the Charles County Department of Utilities and the Charles County Health Department report that an accidental sewage overflow of approximately 15,000 gallons of raw wastewater occurred yesterday around 10 a.m. in a sewer line near the old lagoon behind the Briarwood subdivision near Sandalwood Drive.
According to the Department of Utilities, the overflow was caused by a drop-connection device that fell off the wall of the manhole, blocking the downstream sewer line, and was compounded by an accumulation of grease and rags. Yesterday, Utilities personnel removed the obstruction and jet-cleaned the sewer lines to remove the grease and rags. The drop-connection device was re-attached to the manhole after cleaning had been performed.
The raw wastewater was totally contained in a low area near the manhole and no wastewater escaped into Mattawoman Creek, according to the Department of Utilities. Department personnel have pumped the overflow out of the low area and back into the sewer system. Signs have been posted warning residents to avoid contact with the area. Lime has been applied to the affected area to control any bacteria or odors.
"The affected area poses no threat to the environment, public health, or drinking water," said the Health Department of Charles County.
For more information, call the Department of Utilities at 301-609-7400, or the Health Department at 301-609-6751.