We are not aware of any sewage dumping.
However, if you have information about sewage dumping or other environmental
problems that have occurred at the Eastpoint wastewater treatment facility, we would
like to review this information and would be happy to discuss it with you. Likewise,
our files are open and available for public inspection during normal business hours.
In 1996 and 1997, the Department conducted a months long survey of bacteria levels
along the Apalachicola River and Bay. Oystermen were concerned about increased and
prolonged closing of shellfish waters due to bacteria levels. Frankly, we all expected to
find one or more discrete sources of high bacteria. However, repeated sampling
indicated only two or three very localized hot spots, but none that persisted to the bay.
Bay closure occurs when fecal coliform levels exceed 14 per 100 milliliters. Our
sampling indicated that fecal coliform levels easily exceeded this closure level following
rainfall events. General rainfall runoff was enough to cause shellfish harvesting
closures; wastewater treatment facilities along or near the river did not seem to be
significant contributing factors. In spite of our 1990’s surveys, and in part due to the
close relationship of our ground and surface waters you mentioned, we need to
continue to monitor our facilities for compliance.
If you have any questions regarding the above information, please contact David
Morres, Administrator of our Wastewater and Drinking Water Program, at
850.595.8300, extension 1166, or via e-mail at david.morres@dep.state.fl.us.
Sincerely,
W. Richard Fancher
District Director
DPM
cc: Gerry, Neubauer, Tallahassee Branch Manager
