What is the Wastewater Collection System?

Anytime water goes down a drain — whether from your sink, shower or toilet — it becomes wastewater (also called sewage). Salem collects and treats wastewater to protect public health and keep our local waterways clean.

Wastewater Collection System Master Plan - Final Draft

Visit the Wastewater Utility page for more details!

Last Updated: 2007

Why update now?

Master planning best practices recommend updating plans every 5 to 10 years, and at least every 20 years. A new plan is essential to address aging infrastructure, growth, and new technologies. 

The Good News

  • Significant capacity improvements to our wastewater collection system have led to a reduction in sanitary sewer overflows caused by capacity limitations.
  • New technologies and green infrastructure options are now available that weren’t feasible in 1996.

Challenges

  • Inflow and infiltration (I&I) during rainfall events results in up to 5X higher flows than in dry weather
  • Aging Infrastructure
  • Population growth is straining capacity

What You Can Do

  • Keep wipes, fats, oils and grease out of the drain: Pouring them down the sink can cause blockages in your home and the city’s system.
  • If you see a sewer backup, call the City’s dispatch number at 503-588-6311.

Master Plan Amendment Process Timeline

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  1. Resolution to Initiate Amendments City Council votes to begin the amendment process at a public meeting.
  2. First Ordinance Reading The proposed ordinance and master plan amendments are introduced at a City Council meeting.
  3. Public Hearing City staff present the proposed amendments. Community members and Council can provide comments and ask questions.
  4. Second Ordinance Reading City Council considers and votes on the ordinance to adopt the amendments.
  5. Effective Date The amendments become effective 30 days after City Council adopts the ordinance.

Public Meetings and Outreach Materials

Contact

For questions about the Wastewater Collection System Master Plan, contact:

Sage Barnard-Davidson
Utility Planner, Strategic Planning Division
 Email: sbdavidson@cityofsalem.net
Phone: 503-588-6151