Overflow Spews 20,000 Gallons Of Sewage Into Bel Air Creek

(Bel Air, MD – September 30, 2008) – – Harford County Public Works experienced a mechanical failure at one of its sewage pumping stations on Friday evening September 26, 2008 that resulted in a sewage overflow of approximately 15 to 20,000 gallons

The overflow took place at a manhole on the site of the Harford Estates Pumping Station at 711 Bernadette Drive in Bel Air, MD. The overflow started at approximately 6:40 p.m. and was controlled through emergency response and mechanical repairs by 7:50 p.m. The cause of the overflow is believed to have been a temporary condition where air became entrapped in the pumps causing the capacity to become greatly diminished.

The overflow occurred over a small grassy area and into a heavily wooded site near the tributary known as Bear Cabin Creek. Site crews cleaned up residual spillage at the site Friday evening plus posted the area with signs for the overflow notice and precautions.

Heavy rains Friday and into Saturday diluted and dispersed the overflow to the point where the environmental impact is considered very minimal.

Local and State Health and Environmental officials were contacted Friday evening. The County continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.