HUTTO – The city of Hutto joins organizations from around the country in recognizing National Public Works Week, celebrated this year from Sunday, May 21 through Saturday, May 27. The hard-working individuals within the city’s Public Works Department are divided into six main divisions – Construction Inspection, Facility Maintenance, Fleet Management, Regulatory Compliance, Streets and Drainage, and Water and Wastewater Utilities.
In spirit of National Public Works Week’s theme, Connecting the World, the city shares simple tips and tricks that each and every member of our community can do to help lessen the strain on local infrastructure, keep our waterways clean and ensure smooth utility service.
Save the drain for rain
The city’s stormwater sewer system transports stormwater and urban runoff that flows down driveways and streets directly to our creeks, lakes and rivers. Anything that enters a stormwater sewer system is discharged, untreated, into the water that we use for swimming, fishing, boating and other recreational activities.
Illicit discharge, or the dumping of anything other than the water that falls from the sky, is illegal.
Some illicit discharges clog the storm sewer system which can create f looding or even cause damage to stormwater structures. Homeowners and business operators can help prevent the buildup of illicit discharge by following these easy steps: • Never sweep or blow leaves and other yard clippings into storm drains • Always dispose of used motor oil at approved disposal sites • Follow directions on pesticides and fertilizers and avoid use when rain is in the forecast • Take leftover paint, cleaners and other household chemicals to an approved disposal site
• Pick up pet waste and dispose of it properly to keep bacteria and parasites out of our creeks
Clean pipes are green pipes
Keeping a mindful eye on anything and everything that enters the drains in your home or business is one of the easiest ways to prevent property damage, plumbing problems and health issues. Wastewater treatment technologies and processes are designed to only break down bodily waste and toilet paper.
Even wipes labeled as “f lushable” are too thick and do not disintegrate easily in wastewater systems.
Because these types of wipes are designed to absorb moisture and stay intact when wet, they can take up to eight days to dissolve, while regular toilet paper dissolves in just minutes. Flushed wipes accumulate and can block pipes and pumps, a destructive and labor-intensive problem Hutto Public Works teams have had to tackle more and more in recent years.
Kitchen grease is another common threat when it comes to pipe blockage.
While grease might enter a pipe as a liquid, it converts into a wax-like substance over time, easily clogging drains and pipes.
Leftover grease should be disposed of in a standard trash receptacle. Paint, cleaners and fertilizers should never be poured down the drain. Pipes clogged by these common household items can easily overflow, causing a nasty and costly mess that is often times not covered by standard homeowner’s insurance.
