This message is to inform you that the rain event(s) of July 2nd and 3rd, 2023, resulted in
many combined sewer overflows from the Springfield Waste Water treatment plant and
Chicopee combined sewer outfalls. These overflows sent over 21,749,271 gallons of untreated
wastewater into the Connecticut River, Chicopee River and Mill River. While the release of
untreated wastewater has stopped as of 2:15 am July 3 rd , Public Health officials recommend
avoiding contact with these water bodies for 48 hours after the discharge ceases due to
increased health risks from bacteria and other pollutants. The discharge consists of rainwater
and untreated sewage and waste. Activities to avoid include, but are not limited to,
swimming, wading, fishing, kayaking and canoeing.
If you have any questions about this event, please visit springfieldalerts.com or the Health
department’s page of the town website.
