Dye Water Testing of Sewer Lines Begins in Ridgefield

Dye water testing to identify and mitigate possible sources of stormwater or groundwater entering entering the village sewer district system began Monday.

The testing is expected to last four to six weeks. On average, 700,000-800,000 gallons are processed per day by the sewer district plant. However, gallonage spikes to 4 million when it rains.

State statute requires all gallonage to be treated.

Each sewer connection is being tested to ensure there are no gutters, catch basins or sump pumps connected to the system that should be connected to a separate rain water system in an attempt to reduce the cost of sewer plant upgrades required by DEEP.

The Water Pollution Control Authority’s engineering consultant AECOM and their subcontractor SDE Environmental Engineering will conduct the testing from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday to Thursday.

The test involves putting dyed water into roof leaders, yard drains and/or roof drains. The sanitary sewers and storm drains in the street will be opened and inspected for the biodegradable, non-toxic dye.

Testing team members will carry photo identification and a letter of authorization from the WPCA and the vehicles used by the field crews will have SDE’s logo and indicate that they are working for the Town of Ridgefield. The tests will be conducted only when a property owner is present, and all of the work will be conducted from outside the house.

For more information, visit the Town of Ridgefield website.

Patch File Photo