HomeMy Public PortalAboutSewer Overflow Letter to Customers 040124 April 2024
Dear MSD Customer:
There are multiple points throughout The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District's (MSD) service area
where a combination of stormwater and wastewater may discharge from the sewer system during
moderate to heavy storms. These constructed wastewater overflow points (Wastewater Overflows),
also known as constructed sanitary sewer overflows or SSOs, were designed decades ago to act as relief
valves when too much stormwater enters the wastewater sewer system and help to reduce wastewater
backups into homes and businesses. For your information, there are a number of factors that determine
if an overflow discharges, including how much rain falls over a given period of time. The result is that not
all Wastewater Overflows discharge every time it rains. In fact, some Wastewater Overflows will go
months or years without discharging.
In accordance with an agreement (Consent Decree) between MSD, the United States Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), and the Missouri Coalition for the Environment Foundation (MCE), MSD posts
notification signs at all Wastewater Overflows. A copy of the sign for these Wastewater Overflows is
enclosed.
The signs and this mailing are done to notify the public of the existence and location of the Wastewater
Overflows. Owners of multiple residential dwellings or multiple commercial properties receiving this
notice should pass the notice along to their tenants by either posting this notice in the property
common area or sending a copy directly to tenants.
The issue of Wastewater Overflows has been a significant focus of MSD's work for many years. From
1992 to 2012, MSD spent approximately $2.7 billion to eliminate more than 380 overflows. Today, our
work to address overflows and improve water quality continues with a commitment to spend $7.2
billion (in 2023 dollars) to improve the region’s wastewater collection and treatment capabilities. These
improvements will benefit St. Louisans, water quality, and our environment for generations to come.
For more information on Wastewater Overflows and their locations please visit msdprojectclear.org or
call (314) 768-6260.
Sincerely,
The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD)
2350 Market St.
St. Louis, MO 63103-2555