A sewer spill estimated to be between 1,000 and 5,000 gallons of untreated liquid effluent was discharged into Oak Creek along State Route 179 on Sunday, October 25. The incident, which city staff attributed to a restaurant grease clog, was contained by the city of Sedona’s Public Works Wastewater Division within two hours of notification.
Communications and Public Affairs Manager Julie Graham reported in an email that the division was notified of the spill at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 25. The location of the incident was identified as 671 SR 179, a shopping complex situated along the busy thoroughfare connecting Uptown and the Village of Oak Creek.
Upon receiving the notification, City Wastewater staff promptly responded to the area to assess the situation. They determined that the problem originated from a restaurant grease clog, which ultimately caused untreated liquid effluent to flow out of a manhole. This effluent then entered a storm drain that subsequently discharged into Oak Creek.
The city’s immediate response ensured that the spill was brought under control swiftly. Graham stated that the spill was contained within two hours of staff arriving on site, with the flow of sewage effectively stopped by approximately 7:30 p.m. Following the containment, the affected area was disinfected to mitigate potential health impacts and environmental concerns.
In the aftermath of the spill, the city is undertaking further actions to address the environmental impact and inform the community. According to Graham, the city is currently conducting water quality tests in Oak Creek. The results of these tests will be shared with the public once they become available, providing crucial information regarding the extent of the impact on the creek, a vital local waterway often subject to public concern regarding its ecological health.
Furthermore, city staff are scheduled to begin notifying properties adjacent to the spill location starting at 7 a.m. on Monday, October 26. This notification process aims to keep directly impacted residents and businesses informed about the incident and any necessary precautions. Graham emphasized that the city intends to keep the broader community informed as new information emerges, ensuring transparency regarding this local environmental concern.
