News Briefs: Waste Spill Fills Pump Room to Its Ceiling in Colorado

Wastewater treatment plant workers in Craig, Colorado, came into work recently to find wastewater up to the ceiling. Turns out, a lightning strike knocked out the plant’s power, including its entire alert communications system. Officials say it will take weeks or months to recover from the incident, which left sewage backing up its 36-inch line toward homes and businesses once the pump room filled. After about 16 years working with the city, wastewater manager Carl Ray tells Craig Press it’s a significant disaster. “It’s one of the worst events I’ve ever been through.” The city is hopeful insurance will