Colorado Town Implementing Grease Interceptor Ordinance
The Town of Palisade Colorado is working to implement a system to lessen the amount of fats, oils and grease (FOG) in its wastewater system, while working to minimize impacts to local businesses.
The town's interim Public Works Director outlined a comprehensive plan during a presentation to the local governing body, focusing on the implementation of a system designed to divert fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from their wastewater system by requiring commercial kitchens to install a grease interceptor.
This initiative comes in response to requirements set by the state's Department of Public Health and Environment, aiming for a sustainable connection to a nearby sanitation district by 2026.
The essence of the problem lies in the way FOG interacts with their wastewater collection systems. Once these substances enter the drainage system, they pose severe risks to both public health and the environment by clogging and causing inefficiencies within the wastewater treatment processes.
Historically, the town has had measures in place since 2009 to manage these issues, yet enforcement has been lax. With a renewed focus, the emphasis is now on ensuring compliance, particularly from commercial kitchen operators which are the primary contributors of FOG to the sewer system.
The town's administration is spearheading efforts to introduce a pretreatment system that specifically targets the removal of FOG before it enters the broader wastewater network.
This is a crucial step towards mitigating the adverse effects on the town's distribution system, which has suffered from blockages and required costly maintenance.
The financial burden of these maintenance requirements has been significant, with annual costs for pumping out affected wet wells around $44,000.
A significant part of the challenge lies in the implementation of installing a grease interceptor in existing commercial kitchens, notably restaurants, without causing undue hardship.
The local government is acutely aware of the financial implications for businesses required to install a grease interceptor. There is a concerted effort to support these establishments through this transition, aiming to minimize the economic impact and ensure no business is forced to close due to these new requirements.
The town's leaders emphasize the importance of community understanding and support as they navigate this necessary change.
An intergovernmental agreement outlines a compliance timeline for businesses, offering a window to adjust before the full effects of the new system take effect.
This strategic approach underlines a commitment to environmental stewardship and public health while balancing the needs and capabilities of the local business community.
To prevent problems in your commercial kitchen drains that can result from having a clogged grease interceptor, consider installing The Drain Strainer. Invented by a former restaurant owner, The Drain Strainer is a commercial garbage disposal alternative that captures food solids that could clog your pipes and grease trap while still allowing your sinks to drain quickly.