920 Gallons of Sewage Spilled in Salem’s Claggett Creek

Salem, OR. — Official Release: On Sept. 14, at about 6 p.m., an overflow of untreated sewage into Claggett Creek occurred near 1860 Hawthorne Ave. NE. The incident was resolved by 8 p.m. the same evening. About 920 gallons of untreated sewage were spilled.

City of Salem utility crews responded immediately, clearing the blockage and cleaning the affected sewer line. Public Works staff are conducting a follow-up site assessment today to determine the cause of the blockage.

To protect public health, signs have been posted advising residents to avoid contact with the water in Claggett Creek due to potentially elevated bacteria levels. Water quality testing is underway and will continue until results confirm the issue has been resolved. Any bacteria introduced into the creek should naturally flush out within the next few days.

If you notice an overflowing sewer manhole or want to report a spill, please contact the Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6311.

You can help prevent sewer backups and overflows by keeping fats, oils, rags, and grease out of the sewer system. Learn more about preventing sanitary sewer overflows and the City of Salem’s efforts to reduce these events by visiting https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/household/water-utilities/wastewater/how-to-prevent-sewer-back-up.