The Sierra Club Central Ohio Group has advocated for years to fix Columbus’ broken sewer system. While the Club commends the City of Columbus for their commitment to remedy major sewer problems, we will not give blanket approval of the Wet Weather Management Plan.

We encourage major sewer improvements that result in cleaner water and healthier communities. We also want to be assured that the money we invest in sewers will actually yield the environmental benefits intended by the Wet Weather Management Plan.

Currently, the City is unable to provide an accurate account of the wastewater volume accepted from 22 surrounding communities that have contracts with the City of Columbus. Information is also lacking about inflow and infiltration from these surrounding communities, which refers to water entering the sewer system through improper connections or cracks in sewer pipes. Columbus must have a clear idea of all incoming contributions to the sewer system as they pursue an expensive and massive overhaul.

Higher than average rainfall could push the limits of the sewer system, which is designed for typical years. June 2008 was a record-setting month for rainfall. Data are not yet in on Columbus overflows. A more adequate plan would include consideration of challenges associated with unpredictable weather patterns and above average rainfall.

Storm water travels quickly across urban landscapes and carries chemicals, bacteria and other pollutants to local waterways. Storm water also overloads combined sewer systems and triggers overflows containing raw sewage and runoff contaminants into the Scioto River, Olentangy River and Alum Creek. Protecting natural areas and using green infrastructure techniques can collect, absorb and filter runoff. The Sierra Club contends that on-site storm water management is a crucial issue that is missing from the Columbus plan.

Efforts in many cities have shown that green infrastructure, including rain gardens, rain barrels, and green roofs, can reduce the amount of stormwater discharged or entering combined sewer systems and that it can be cost-competitive with conventional controls.

The city has begun taking steps to reduce runoff through green infrastructure. However, such efforts need to be implemented at a larger scale. The Sierra Club encourages the city to also include public education about conservation practices in the plan. Green practices can be increased by developing incentives or other creative mechanisms to encourage residents, businesses and developers to manage stormwater on-site.

The Sierra Club is committed to working with the City of Columbus and Ohio EPA on the Wet Weather Management Plan and green infrastructure projects. We will continue to monitor sewer improvement projects and provide input.

STAY TUNED FOR THE DATE! The Ohio EPA’s draft proposal to approve the Columbus Wet Weather Management Plan can be found here. The Sierra Club is requesting a public hearing. Public participation is critical in this process.