Timmins reports secondary bypass at Mattagami water pollution control plant began April 14

A secondary bypass began April 14 at the Mattagami Water Pollution Control Plant at 551 Airport Road in Timmins, according to an online report from the City of Timmins’ Environmental Services Department. The city reported the start time as 4:36 p.m.; the end date, end time and volume bypassed were listed as to be determined.

In the same report, the city outlined how bypasses or overflows can occur when a treatment plant or part of the treatment process is overwhelmed, and said these events are often caused by heavy rainfall or snowmelt.

The city said municipal wastewater is about 99% water, coming from stormwater and from homes and businesses.

According to the report, during a bypass or overflow, partially treated wastewater is diverted away from a treatment process to prevent backups, overflows or damage to the system.

The city asked residents to conserve water during rainstorms by delaying or limiting activities such as laundry, long showers, or running the dishwasher. The city also asked residents not to flush wipes.