FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Pamela Flasch, director of public affairs
BJWSA responds to wastewater release in The Farm neighborhood
(Okatie, South Carolina) – February 13, 2023 – Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority (BJWSA) reports that an estimated 45,000 gallons of wastewater was released from a gravity main in The Farm in Bluffton Saturday, February 11. The overflow occurred due to the structural failure of the main at a manhole, which led to a blockage resulting in the overflow. BJWSA has notified the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), and signs have been posted in the area to inform the public. Sewage flowed to nearby ponds in adjacent neighborhoods, and was quickly diluted by the heavy rain that fell throughout Saturday evening into Sunday.
It was also necessary to redirect traffic around the break to ensure safety, and temporary traffic patterns will stay in place until repairs are completed. Fire and Police departments were alerted to this issue. The water system in the area was not impacted by this break.
BJWSA was alerted by residents of the location of the break, and crews immediately responded. The overflow has been stopped, and crews are currently in the process of cleanup. The manhole was not reparable, and the area is currently served with a bypass pump to continue providing service as usual. The bypass pump will stay in place until final repairs are made. Completion of the repair is anticipated to take several weeks. BJWSA appreciates residents impacted for their patience during the repair process. The Authority will remain in constant communication with residents and the Homeowners Association to keep them informed of the repair schedule and possible impacts.
If you see or suspect any type of spill from the sewer collection system, please contact BJWSA at 843-987-9200.
For more information, please visit www.bjwsa.org.
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