Sewage Advisory: Crews respond to sewage release in SW Portland, portion reaches Stephens Creek

On Tuesday, October 8, City crews responded to reports of a sewage release from a private maintenance hole on the 2000 block of SW Vermont Street. Crews identified a sewage release and estimated that some of that flow affects Stephens Creek. 

Crews estimate about 2000 gallons overflowed from the private maintenance hole and entered a small creek on private property, which connects to Stephens Creek. The maintenance hole is on private property, and a crew from a private company is currently working to stop the release.

As a precaution, the public is advised to avoid the creek downstream from this location. City maintenance crews are placing warning signs near the spill. People and pets are advised to avoid contact with Stephens Creek downstream of the 2000 block of SW Vermont Avenue through Friday, October 11 because of the possibility of increased bacteria in the water.

The cause of the overflow is being investigated. 

Environmental Services reminds the public that most sewage releases are preventable. The most common causes of sewage overflows are pipes clogged with household debris such as cooking grease that are sent down kitchen drains or wet wipes that are flushed. Both belong in the trash, not down the drain. Tree roots are another common cause. 

Environmental Services advises the public to follow these tips to prevent clogs and overflows in homes and businessesand 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 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 environment by collecting and recovering resources from the city's wastewater, managing stormwater, and restoring and protecting Portland's rivers, streams, and watersheds. Portland.gov/bes/news.