Ten months later, CWS I-20 discharge continues into Saluda River

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – ABC Columbia News has learned that the wastewater discharge into the Saluda River from Carolina Water Service’s Interstate 20 location continues, despite intense public backlash and DHEC issuing its intent to deny the renewal of the discharge permit nearly ten months ago.

DHEC spokesman Robert Yanity said the agency is in the process of following through on its intention to deny the permit, and he’s unsure when the end of that process might come. The I-20 plant has faced at least eight violations with the state in the past five years.

CWS’ Friarsgate discharge location upstream on the Saluda River is under fire this week, for improperly treated wastewater. Recent samples taken by DHEC of the wastewater coming out of the plant turned up fecal coliform levels, more than ten times the maximum allowed by the permit. Yanity said there have only been “minor” issues detected at this plant in the past four years.

CWS sent ABC Columbia a statement regarding the issues at Friarsgate:

“Upon notification from DHEC of elevated bacteria levels in the area of our Friarsgate wastewater treatment facility discharge into the Lower Saluda River, that discharge was IMMEDIATELY halted and the effluent was diverted to on-site holding facilities for subsequent treatment.

Our investigation revealed that one portion of the multi-step treatment process (aeration) was not functioning at proper levels. Repairs to the aeration system were completed on Wednesday 6/22 and the full multi-
step treatment process is back in operation today. We implemented steps to install a supplemental disinfection process while the aeration issue was being resolved and will leave this added protection in place until we are confident bacteria levels remain at a safe level.

Again, CWS is genuinely and deeply apologetic for the inconvenience and concern created by these recent elevated bacteria levels found in the river.”

DHEC has issued a swimming advisory for the section of the river along Saluda Shoals Park. It’s unsafe for you or your pet to swim in the water there. Be cautious as you’re boating or fishing. For questions about the advisory, call them at 1-800-360-5655.