Rains Cause Wastewater Discharge into Owasco River

Community News Release
Black and white photo of rain falling on a wet paved surface, creating splashes and puddles.
Heavy rain creates puddles and splashes on a paved surface.

Recent rains caused wastewater to enter the Owasco River.

The Cayuga County Health Department made the announcement that the City of Auburn’s sewer overflow was activated Friday, causing stormwater and partially treated wastewater to enter the river.

Then, on Monday, three combined sewer overflow facilities were activated.

The health department reminds residents drinking water is unaffected as the discharges occurred downstream of Owasco Lake and flow northward.

The city is planning to make upgrades to the Combined Sewer Overflow Facilities this year to help prevent similar overflows.

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