Notification of Untreated Wastewater Discharge

On Wednesday morning, July 7, 2021, the City of Lincolnton had a sanitary sewer overflow and discharge of untreated wastewater behind 1470 E Gaston Street due to grease, paper, and debris. Approximately 6,000 gallons of raw untreated sewer spilled into the Lithia Inn Branch, which eventually runs into the South Fork River.

This does not affect the drinking water and the problem has been resolved. 

At approximately 9:00AM the City of Lincolnton was contacted by the NC Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Water Resources (NCDEQ-WR) about a possible sewer spill. City of Lincolnton crews immediately responded to the creek area near Rock Creek Dr. to investigate the cause. 

The investigation revealed a manhole overflowing behind 1470 E Gaston St and spilling into Lithia Inn Branch. City crews jetted and cleared the line which was clogged with grease, paper, and debris. The necessary repairs were completed at 12:00NN on Wednesday, July 7, 2021.

Residents are reminded and strongly urged to not flush grease, wipes, or other materials down any wastewater lines, including toilets, sinks, and storm drains.

This release has been prepared in accordance with NC General Statute 143-215.iC which requires that the owner or operator of any wastewater collection or treatment works to issue a press release when an untreated wastewater discharge of 1,000 gallons or more reaches surface waters. The NC Division of Water Resources has been notified of the City of Lincolnton’s findings.

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Contact:  Laura Morris, 980-241-3969

Public Notice Media Release