Partly treated wastewater released after plant malfunction

LEWES, Del. – “Partially treated water,” said Peggy Perovich, a Lewes resident.

“How’s it affecting the fish, how’s it affecting the birds, and how’s it affecting us?” said Perovich.

Residents are voicing their concerns after partially treated wastewater began seeping into the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal on Thursday.

“It’s dangerous and you don’t know long term effects what it’s going to do to the canals, the beaches, to us,” said Perovich.

The leak happened as a result of equipment malfunctions at the Lewes Wastewater Treatment Plant. Some residents say it never should have gotten to this point.

“Partially is not good,” Perovich, “It has to be a hundred percent.”

As a result of the sewage leak, state officials have ordered a closure for shellfish harvesting near the plant for a 21-day period. This is to protect the public from potentially dangerous bacteria.

Some residents tell us, partially treated water should never have been allowed to reach the waterways in the first place.

“It should be completely treated before it goes into any waterway due to your wildlife, due to your environment, due to your residents in this area,” said Perovich.

On Monday, state officials asked residents to cut back on water usage to reduce strain on the treatment plant.

Residents are being urged to lessen laundry and dish washing loads and to minimize unnecessary flushing of toilets. Some residents tell us they do not mind doing that as it should already be a priority.

“People should be more aware anyway at cutting back on water,” said Perovich.

State officials say they are actively working to reduce bacteria levels and they are going to be monitoring the water quality in and around the canal.

According to the Lewes City Manger, Ann Marie Townshend, new filters have been ordered to help fix the problem. She says they should be up and running by Saturday.

City officials say they are not sure how long it will take for repairs at the plant to be completed.