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<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />July 21, 2011 <br /> <br />CONTACT: <br />Carla Spangler, I/I Investigation Project Manager, (541) 682-4800 <br /> <br />From Public Information Section, 541-682-5523 or 541-954-2938 <br />FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE <br /> <br />Testing and Inspection of Wastewater Lines Begins July 25 in Eugene <br />Beginning Monday, July 25, crews from the City of Eugene Public Works Department will <br />investigate sanitary sewer line segments in Eugene using closed circuit television, dyed water <br />and isolated smoke testing. These three techniques allow staff to pinpoint defects and improper <br />connections that cause stormwater runoff and groundwater to enter the public wastewater <br />collection system. <br />This year's testing includes portions of the wastewater collection system in the Far West, <br />Whiteaker, West University, Downtown and Jefferson Westside neighborhoods. Testing will <br />begin in the downtown area and is expected to take several months to complete. <br />During the tests, which are endorsed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, <br />nontoxic, white smoke is released into sanitary sewer lines to identify problems. The smoke <br />does not harm plants or animals and quickly dissipates leaving no residue or stains. Residents <br />are notified by door hangers one or two days before testing begins in their neighborhood. <br /> After smoke is blown into a sewer line, crew members use closed circuit television <br />cameras inside the sewer system to see where smoke is exiting the public system. White smoke <br />rising from the ground generally indicates a crack or other defects in a sewer line. <br />Deteriorated sewer lines and improper stormwater connections cause a problem called <br />inflow and infiltration. The region's wastewater collection and treatment system is designed to <br />carry only so much water and sewage. Inflow and infiltration of stormwater runoff and <br />groundwater can overload the system, increasing the difficulty and cost of transporting and <br />treating wastewater. <br />(more) <br /> <br />Public Works Administration ● City of Eugene ● 101 E. Broadway, Suite 400, Eugene, OR 97401 <br />Phone 541-682-8421 ● Fax 541-682-6826 ● www.eugene-or.gov/pw <br /> <br />