Sources of Pollution

All deposited pollutants on surfaces wash away with rain and flow overland to the nearest waterway. Examples of less desirable substances that are carried in stormwater runoff are petroleum products, animal waste, fertilizers, pesticides and household chemicals.

Pet waste can have a negative impact on local waterways. Pet owners must clean up after their pets when walking their dog(s) in their neighborhood.  Citizens who use Dog Parks need to clean up after their pets.

Failing Septic Tanks have the potential to contaminate both surface water and groundwater. Rain water moves quickly through the soils, reaches the ground water table, and moves laterally into creeks, rivers and ultimately the Bay. Suffolk's high-water table and sandy soils result in a considerable amount of ground water inflow into surface waters.

Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) can have a negative impact on sanitary sewer systems. FOG builds up on pipe walls and can cause blockages leading to sanitary sewer overflows.

Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) are identified as a source of bacteria loads. Sanitary sewer overflow is a condition in which untreated sewage is discharged from a sanitary sewer into the environment prior to reaching sewage treatment facilities. When caused by rainfall it is also known as wet weather overflow. The majority of the City’s sanitary sewer infrastructure is located within the watersheds of the water bodies that have bacteria TMDLs.   The adopted Capital Improvements Plan: FY 2017-2026 provides budget for sanitary sewer extensions and system upgrades. Budgeted funds will provide for the renovation, rehabilitation, and replacement of the City’s sanitary sewer system. The City of Suffolk’s system currently consists of 146 pump stations and 339 miles of gravity sewer mains and force mains.

Illicit Discharge Detection. Suffolk Public Works investigates reports of illicit discharges from the public and other City departments. Illicit discharges can come from a range of sources and involve numerous pollutants, including bacteria. Once notified of an illicit discharge, staff identifies the source of the discharge and the responsible party. Once the nature of the discharge is determined, the responsible party is required to immediately address the discharge and conduct any necessary cleanup. Septic system failures are referred to the local Department of Health Office.