Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) Public Notice
City Compost Site
“Pursuant to WI Code NR210.21(5), the city is informing the public of a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) that occurred on Friday April 17, 2026. The SSO occurred approximately 480’ west of the southern edge of the city compost site. Due to the flash flooding that occurred on the night of April 17th, the sanitary sewer system was hydraulically overwhelmed. To prevent the likelihood of basement back-ups, utility staff intentionally bypass pumped from the sanitary sewer on to the ground. Approximately 120,000 gallons of water was pumped into a drainage ditch. Although technically sewage, this water was largely rainwater that had infiltrated the sewer system. This water likely continued flowing in the drainage ditch to the north where it eventually ended up in Whitewater Creek on the northern side of town. Threat for human exposure is minimal. However, the public should avoid recreating in the flood waters of Whitewater Creek.

Editor’s note: The above public notice was provided by Brad Marquardt, public works director for the City of Whitewater.