A mechanical failure at the Maliview Wastewater Treatment Plant resulted in approximately two cubic metres of untreated sewage entering the marine environment through the discharge outfall pipe on Tuesday afternoon.
The Capital Regional District issued a press release about the incident on Tuesday evening.
“The area impacted is in the vicinity of the Maliview Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall pipe at the intersection of Maliview Drive and Walkers Hook Road on the northeast part of Salt Spring Island,” states the CRD.
“As a result of this discharge, residents are advised to avoid entering the waters along the affected shorelines as the wastewater may pose a health risk.
“As a precaution and in consultation with Island Health, the beach within the affected area will be posted with public health advisory signs until sample results indicate enterococci levels are below the 70CFU/100mL recreational limit.”
The untreated sewage release commenced at 3:30 p.m. and was responded to immediately, says the CRD. Normal operation resumed at 4:10 p.m.