Update on sheen on Missouri River near Wastewater Treatment Plant

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:  May 19, 2022

Contact:  Jason Fladland, Water Treatment Plant Branch Manager - (406)727-1325

UPDATE ON SHEEN ON MISSOURI RIVER NEAR WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT

GREAT FALLS, Montana - The city of Great Falls (COGF) has received analytical results associated with the sheen on the Missouri River at the sanitary sewer outfall that occurred on April 19, 2023.  Analytical results indicated elevated levels of oil & grease in the COGF's collection system as well as at the COGF's Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP).  These levels are not typical and were determined to be from an external source.  The COGF has initiated required enforcement actions and will follow applicable procedures, per EPA/DEQ requirements.  Results from the sample taken in the Missouri River did not exceed the COGF's allowable discharge limit thereof did not result in enforcement exposure as it pertains to COGF's Montana Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (MPDES) Permit.

        For clarification, this is related to the sanitary sewer outfall not the storm sewer outfall, where Calumet has placed approximately 30 feet of booms and absorbent materials. 

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