FAIR OAKS RFANCH — A discharge of 75,000 gallons of wastewater into the community caused by a pump failure during the recent flood does not pose a risk to the public drinking system, officials said.
However, residents with private wells within a half mile of the spill should boil water for at least a minute or use distilled water for drinking, cooking, bathing and brushing teeth until their well water has been tested.
The “unauthorized discharge” occurred after significant flooding along Cibolo Creek inundated the Bottom of the Hill Lift Station, damaging electrical equipment and causing the wastewater pumps to become inoperable, officials said Thursday, July 16.
The pump failure also caused an upstream manhole at the end of Cojak Circle to back up and overflow.
The affected area extends from 29745 No Le Hace Drive northeast toward Cibolo Creek.
City officials said floodwaters from recent heavy rains covered the lift station and manhole, making containment of the discharge futile.
Crews will begin cleanup as soon as floodwaters recede and the area is safe to enter.
Water distribution samples in the vicinity of the spill will also be collected and tested when conditions allow, officials said.
City officials said in a prepared statement the public drinking water system continues to meet all Texas Commission on Environmental Quality standards.
Residents who purchase water from a public water supply, the release said, may want to contact their provider to determine if the water is safe for personal use.
The city’s statement offered these precautions:
• Avoid contact with floodwater, soil or standing water in the affected area.
• Avoid entering or fishing in Cibolo Creek until further notice.
• Wash thoroughly with soap and water and launder clothing if contact with potentially contaminated water or soil occurs.
