Templeton dumped 300,000 gallons of sewage into the Salinas River

 By: KSBY Staff

January 12, 2023 5:13 PM

                                    The Salinas River received 300,000 gallons of treated sewage, according to San Luis Obispo County Public Health authorities.

As a result of the Salinas River overflowing into the percolation ponds run by the Templeton Community Service District (CSD) Wastewater Treatment Plant, according to health officials, the sewage was released into the Salinas River.

Through Templeton, Paso Robles, San Miguel, and Monterey County, the Salinas River flows northward.

According to health authorities, the leak happened on Monday at a location about 2,000 feet south of the intersection of Vineyard Drive and Main Street. The spill began at 2:45 and was cleaned up around 5:45.

Health experts warn people to stay away from floodwater, ocean water, rivers, and lakes after heavy rainstorms like the one this week and for at least three days afterward.

According to health authorities, the leak happened on Monday at a location about 2,000 feet south of the intersection of Vineyard Drive and Main Street. The spill began at 2:45 and was cleaned up around 5:45.

Health experts warn people to stay away from floodwater, ocean water, rivers, and lakes after heavy rainstorms like the one this week and for at least three days afterward.

While swimming or surfing, coming into contact with stormwater may raise your chance of developing certain illnesses including rashes, fever, chills, ear infections, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Anyone who unintentionally comes into touch with these waters at this period should keep an eye on their symptoms and call their doctor if they worsen or persist.

High concentrations of pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa from the watershed and urban areas are known to be transported to the ocean by rainstorm runoff. Such creatures that are introduced into the water can lead to issues with the skin, lungs, and digestive system. These aquatic bacteria are especially dangerous to young children, elderly persons, and people with weakened immune systems.