The city of South Haven reported between 2,000 and 2,500 gallons of raw sewage spilled Thursday afternoon from a lift station at 03292 C.R. 689, just east of I-196, south of Phoenix Street and east of the South Branch Black River.
South Haven Water, Sewer and Streets Superintendent Quentin Clark said the spill is related to an influx of rain water. The incident occurred between 12:30 p.m. and 1:50 p.m., according to a release from the city.
“There are no obvious [health hazards] at this moment,” Clark said. “We’re going to be on standby, and we’re waiting for guidance from the Van Buren Cass District Health Department, and the state of Michigan, as for what to do next.”
Clark said they have notified the proper authorities, who will find out if there was any surface water, rivers or lakes that were affected. He also commented on the size of the discharge.
“It’s bigger than the last few we’ve had, but it, it’s, it’s not real substantial,” Clark said. “And, and it was heavily diluted with water. I’ve seen some pictures and it was running clear. Raw sewage doesn’t usually run clear. … But, there was still wastewater in it, so we are required to report these things to the state.”
The overflow location is less than a half a mile south of Three Blondes Brewing, as well as nearby to Walmart, Meijer and about a dozen other businesses at I-196 exit 20.
Anyone with additional questions can reach out to the South Haven Department of Public Works at (269) 637-0737.
