An unusual substance in Olympia's sewer system has confounded officials, prompting them to offer a reward for information on its source.
LOTT Clean Water Alliance, the non-profit waste management agency serving Thurston County's urban area, asked the public for help in a Wednesday news release. They are offering a $1,000 reward for information that can lead them to where the substance is being discharged.
They described the substance as a "pulpy gray floating material." The substance started appearing in May in wastewater processed at the Budd Inlet Treatment Plant in downtown Olympia, according to the release.
Staff at the plant have spent more time, equipment and resources to manage the unusual substance, the release says.
Environmental Program Manger Justin Boyes told The Olympian the substance has caused extra wear and tear on equipment. He added excessive solids in the sewer system could create blockages that may cause sewer overflows.
The substance does not currently appear to be impacting biological processes, Boyes said.
A laboratory analysis determined the substance, which only appears on weekdays, is some type of plant matter, perhaps wood or paper pulp, according to the news release.
Officials believe the material may be ground up and discharged into the sewer from an industrial or commercial facility. However, LOTT investigated several possible facilities without revealing the source.
Boyes said LOTT just wants the discharge to stop. If the responsible party refuses to stop discharging this material, he said LOTT may resort to "enforcement remedies," such as discontinuing sewer service.
"Our intention is to locate the source, inform the responsible party of the impact they are having on the wastewater treatment system and require alternative means of disposal," Boyes said.
Anyone with information can contact LOTT at 360-528-5725. Tips will be kept anonymous.
LOTT serves the urban area of north Thurston County by treating wastewater and producing reclaimed water. It was formed by Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater and Thurston County governments.
