What are the harmful effects of sewer overflows, and why is it important to address the sewer overflow problem now?

Untreated sewage in our rivers and creeks endangers both the public’s health and the environment. Sewer overflows not only smell and look bad, they also may contain bacteria, viruses, parasites, suspended solids, heavy metals, hazardous chemicals, oil, grease and other pollutants often found in household and industrial wastes. These pollutants can make people and animals sick, undermine the quality of life in our neighborhoods, and degrade the environment.

Given its concern for the public’s health and the environment, MSD has been working to reduce sewer overflows for the last several decades. Since 2003, the District has intensified its efforts to continually comply with federal and state regulations, which require it to limit the amount and frequency of sewer overflows to our creeks, rivers and streams.

With input from the public, MSD is currently updating its Long-Term Control Plan, a blueprint for controlling sewer overflows in the combined sewer system. Similar plans are underway in the separate sewer systems. As part of its planning process, MSD will engage the public in selecting the best solutions for the St. Louis region.