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Avoid Contact with Combined Sewer Overflows (CSO's)

DCWASA is committed to improving the quality of the receiving waters within the District. Discharges may be dangerous to the public due to the high flow of water that may exit these sewers (outfalls). Potentially harmful substances may also be present in these discharges. The public is advised to stay away from any sewer pipe discharge (outfall). For small rainfalls, the effects of CSOs on the receiving waters typically last less than 24 hours. For larger rainfalls, say greater than 1" of rain, the effects of CSO on water quality can last up to 3 days. The public is also reminded that the District of Columbia Department of Health has imposed a ban on swimming in all rivers and creeks in the District and any contact with rivers and creeks immediately downstream of any sewer pipe discharge should be avoided.
Combined Sewer Overflow

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Warning Light System

CSO Warning Lights

WASA is in the process of siting warning lights to advise the public about the occurrence of CSOs. One warning light will be located on the Anacostia River, and another will be located on the Potomac River. It is anticipated that the lights will have two colors. One color will be displayed when CSOs are actually overflowing, while the second color would be displayed for 24 hours after an overflow stopped.

The location of the lights, their colors, and configuration are being discussed with landowners and others having jurisdiction. Check back here for updates.

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Where Can I Get More Information?

In addition to maintaining information on this website, the following other information is available for download:

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Prior Quarter CSO Predictions

WASA uses its computer model of the combined sewer system to predict the actual CSOs that have occured in the prior calendar quarter. The most recent results are available for download here: 2007 Fourth Quarter CSO Predictions [PDF 12.6 KB].

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Presentations

For more information regarding reducing pollution during CSO events, we have the following presentation: Floatables Presentation [PDF 1.2 MB]

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How Can I Get Involved?

To get information on upcoming opportunities for public involvement, contact Mohsin Siddique at 202-787-2634 or e-mail at mohsin_siddique@dcwasa.com.

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