For Immediate Release 
CONTACT: EPC  (813) 272-5960

DAMAGED SEWAGE LINE SPILLS SEWAGE INTO
WATERS IN RUSKIN

TAMPA, FL (February 3, 2005) – The Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough, in conjunction with the Hillsborough County Health Department, is advising residents of a sewage spill into waters in the Ruskin area. Hillsborough County Water Department crews repaired a damaged sewage line yesterday morning near S.E. 14^th Avenue, just east of US-41. At approximately 6 am on Wednesday morning the sewage line was damaged and about 300,000 gallons of sewage or more discharged to a large pond. The pond continues to discharge to a ditch that is believed to flow north towards the Ruskin Inlet. Residents who live  in the area of the pond, those who live in the vicinity of S. E. 6^th Street, north of S.E. 14^th Avenue, and those along the upper reaches of the Ruskin Inlet are urged to avoid contact with the water in the river for the next several days.

The Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County staff are taking samples and monitoring the river where the spill occurred. The possibility for a fish kill in the affected waters is possible over the next 2 to 3 days.

If a person comes into contact with the contaminated water, it is especially important to keep water out of the mouth, eyes, and nose.  In the event of contact, shower thoroughly with soap and water and wash all contaminated clothing in hot water and a detergent.

For further information regarding the potential impact to the environment, contact Byron Bartlett at (813) 363-9194.

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