South Saint Paul Wastewater Spill

The wastewater spill from April 9 in South Saint Paul no longer poses a risk to the public. On Tuesday, April 16, Metropolitan Council crews finished replacing topsoil affected by the wastewater spill. With cleanup efforts complete and bacteria levels in the Mississippi River returned to an acceptable level, all remaining warning signs have been pulled.

The Metropolitan Council has determined water quality in the Mississippi River has returned to an acceptable level following a wastewater spill on Tuesday, April 9 in South Saint Paul. Water samples collected near the spill site indicated the spill had reached the river. Bacteria samples received Thursday, April 11 showed that water quality in the river had returned to an acceptable level. Warning signs near the river and boat landing were removed Friday, April 12.
 
Crews will begin efforts to replace all affected topsoil Monday, April 15. Repairs to the damaged infrastructure will take place as soon as possible. Sewer service will not be interrupted.
 

A call from the city of South Saint Paul allowed crews from the Metropolitan Council’s Environmental Services division to stop the spill within minutes of receiving the call. Crews are in the process of cleaning up the spill. Repairs to the damaged infrastructure will take place as soon as possible. Signs warning the public “Do Not Enter/ Sewage Spill” are placed around the affected area and at the nearest boat landing. They will remain in place until the area is determined to be safe.
 
Water quality crews are going to the site to assess if any wastewater reached the Mississippi River. An update will be provided as we learn more.