Baton Rouge to Install Sewer Monitoring Devices

The Department of Public Works’ sanitary sewer overflow program in Baton Rouge, La., is in the process of installing sewer overflow alarm and tracking devices in approximately 20 manholes to solve overflow problems throughout the city. When levels are high, the Manhole Monitor from Mission Communications sends alerts to maintenance staff so preemptive action can be taken to prevent a spillover. The system has already been installed in an area where neighbors have complained about overflows for years.

"I think that it makes us proactive, rather than reactive," said Director of Environmental Services Karen Khonsari. "It gives us an opportunity to go back and analyze our operations and maybe trim back some pumps upstream."

The Mission system is expected to greatly reduce spills, especially in flood prone areas.

"[The sensors] gives them an advanced warning," said Matt Crousillac, sales manager for Mission Communications. "From there, they can actually turn pumps off in certain locations and turn other pumps on and shift the water to other parts of the city rather than overflowing into the lake."

Installation of the monitoring devices will be completed by the end of September 2015.

The area's local ABC affiliate reported on this project: http://www.wbrz.com/news/sewer-improvements-might-prevent-overflowing

Source: Mission Communications