A contractor struck an unmarked sanitary sewer force main near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and South Pecan Street in Foley on Monday, Oct. 20, leading to a sanitary sewer overflow that briefly allowed wastewater to enter a nearby drainage ditch.

According to the Utilities Board of the City of Foley, response crews investigated the incident, repaired the damaged line and completed cleaning and disinfection of the affected area. Officials said about 550 gallons of wastewater were released. While most of it was absorbed into the ground, a small amount reached a regional stormwater holding pond located about 1.25 miles from the nearest creek.

A report on the overflow has been submitted to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). The Utilities Board emphasized its continued commitment to protecting public health and the environment, noting that all sanitary sewer overflows are handled in compliance with state and federal regulations.

Residents are urged to take precautions when fishing or participating in recreational activities in affected waterways. Officials recommend thoroughly cooking fish or seafood caught in the area and washing hands after handling them.

Monday's incident marks the latest in a series of sewer overflows reported in Baldwin County this year and the fifth significant overflow in the past few months. In August, an overflow in Foley occurred after lightning and power surges damaged fuses in a pump controller at a lift station. The pumps failed to operate, and a thunderstorm that dropped 1.89 inches of rain in 30 minutes created a hydraulic overload in the sewer system. Previous incidents in Foley and Fairhope were linked to severe weather, while another in Foley stemmed from damage caused by a separate utility company.

For more information about this event or other sanitary sewer overflows, contact the Utilities Board of the City of Foley at (251) 943-5001.