Public Works Update

Wipes Clog Pipes!

The City of Owatonna Wastewater Treatment Facility would like to remind citizens that nothing other than toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. While there are many products marketed as “flushable”, they do not break down in the system and are like flushing fabric cloths or rags. These products can cause costly sewer blockages, backups and damage to municipal pumps. Please remember that sanitary sewer systems were not designed to handle these products. Some of the items that should not be flushed include:

• Baby wipes and diapers
• Bathroom cleaning disinfectant wipes
• Hygienic products/wipes

For additional information, visit "Flushable" Wipes & Sanitary Sewer Problems | Owatonna, MN.

Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) 

As part of Owatonna’s MS4 Permit, the city administers an IDDE Program. This program helps track and eliminate sources of pollution including illegal connections to the storm system, spills, illegal dumping and other sources of contamination. It keeps pollutants from entering the storm system where it may reach a nearby waterway. All illegal connections and illicit discharges are strictly prohibited by City Stormwater Management Code 52.00. Never dump or dispose of anything into the storm sewer or storm drain. Keep absorbent materials such as kitty litter on hand to clean up any accidental spills or leaks.

Keep an eye open for signs of IDDE: 

• Unusual colors, odors, suds or stains  
• Persons dumping liquids, oils, leaves, grass clippings or anything unidentifiable into the storm drain
• Dead or distressed fish and wildlife near surface waters 
• Storm pipes and outfalls with high flow during dry weather periods  
• Excessive sediment accumulation in water bodies near outfalls

How to report suspected illicit discharge or water pollution

If the suspected pollution or contamination is a major spill, unknown or dangerous to human health and safety, the Fire Department should be contacted immediately by calling 911. To anonymously report any suspected illicit discharge or water pollution, visit Owatonna.gov to complete the online Report an Illicit Discharge Form or call 507.444.4350.