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1. Can roof drains and sump pumps be connected to the sanitary sewer?

No. Roof drains and sump pumps must be discharged over the ground or into the storm sewer system. Storm water infiltration and other unmetered waters discharged into the sanitary sewer system increase the overall treatment costs.

2. Do you give tours of the wastewater treatment plant?

Yes. We encourage individuals and groups take a tour of our facilities. We believe that you will find it extremely educational. Call 738-3821 to set up a tour of the plant.

3. How big is the sanitary sewer system?

There is approximately 65 miles of sewer main, over 600 manholes and 9 sewer lift stations.

4. How do I tell if a sewer backup is my problem or the City’s?

The City's Sewer Collections crew will readily answer such inquiries. Contact the Distribution / Maintenance Department at 785-738-3781 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or the 24-hour emergency number at 785-738-5121. Sewer maintenance personnel will be dispatched to the location. If a problem is found in the City's sewer, it will be corrected. However, if the problem is not city related, you will be notified and a plumber should be contacted.

5. How do you know that water discharged from the treatment plant is safe?

We send sampling results to Kansas Department of Health and Environment each month as required by our National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit No. KS0021903, and Kansas Water Pollution Control Permit No. M-SO05-IO01.

6. How much wastewater is treated on a daily basis?

The average daily flow is 350,000 gallons.

The normal holding capacity of the wastewater treatment plant is 1.2 million gallons. However, it is capable of successfully treating 2.2 million gallons in emergency situations. Only wastewater that goes into the sanitary sewer system goes to the treatment plant. Rainwater that goes into the storm sewers is discharged directly to the river without being treated.

7. Is all of the wastewater returned to the Solomon River?

No. In the summer months, some of the water is diverted to the Beloit Country Club, where it is used to water the golf course.