November 2024

Getting ready for the wintry months ahead

This issue of the Brightwater email gives an update on the Alpha Hill project in the south trails area, provides information about the Operators-in-Training program, and shares what you can do to protect your home and our sewer system this rainy season. Read on to learn more!

If you know others who are interested in learning more about the Brightwater Treatment Plant, share this newsletter with them and encourage them to sign up for these emails! Visit Brightwater’s Public Engagement web page to read past emails, newsletters, and blog stories.

Alpha Hill project update

Last month, we communicated that construction on the Alpha Hill project was expected to begin in October. Construction is now expected to begin in late 2024 or early 2025. The project team is working on bringing a contractor on board. Weather and material availability can also affect project schedules. 

Alpha Hill, the hill that towers over the south part of the Brightwater trails area, is permanently closed for restoration. Informal paths on the steep hillside can harm water quality by sending dirt into Little Bear Creek, a home to endangered salmon. Please stay on the three miles of designated Brightwater trails to protect the surrounding landscape. If you’re looking for a hill to climb nearby, check out: Norway Hill in Blyth Park, Hollywood Hill along the Tolt Pipeline Trail, or the Wetland Plateau Trail in the Paradise Valley Conservation Area.

During construction, crews will install a rock wall, fence, and landscaping at the base of Alpha Hill. The vegetation will filter runoff while providing wildlife habitat and improving drought tolerance. To make sure everyone stays safe, King County’s contractor will temporarily close a section of trail during construction. Please follow signs and stay on open trails. Visit kingcounty.gov/BrightwaterProjects for project updates. 

Alpha Hill is closed to public access. Please stay on designated trails to protect the landscape.

Dive into a career in wastewater with the Operators-in-Training Program! Applications open soon

Did you know that King County offers a six-month training academy with paid, on-the-job positions? The Operator-in-Training Program prepares candidates for state certification and paves the way to a successful career with the Wastewater Treatment Division.

Join a new generation of wastewater professionals

The initial six months in the Operator-in-Training Program provides candidates with the necessary training to earn a Washington State Department of Ecology Operator-in-Training Certification. Here are some highlights of the program’s innovative approach:

• Breaking barriers: Say goodbye to the traditional approach of only recruiting formally educated operators. The Operator-in-Training Program welcomes candidates with transferable skills and a strong work ethic.
• Community connection: Our recruitment efforts focus on attracting talent from local communities through job fairs and trade shows. This creates a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
• Peer relationships: Learn about the wastewater industry alongside a cohort of peers! We’ve heard from women and people of color in our communities that starting together fosters an inclusive and supportive experience.
• Hands-on training: Our curriculum goes beyond theory, offering field trips and other programming that introduce trainees to the fundamental principles of water quality and resource recovery. Trainees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how their work contributes to environmental stewardship.

Selected Operator-in-Training Program participants will start their six-month, short-term temporary utility worker positions in spring of 2025. Get notified about new positions by searching KC Jobs and set up automatic notifications for any job category of interest, such as "wastewater.”

Watch the Operator-in-Training Program video!

Is it okay to send down the drain?

Plumbing and sewer problems are the last thing you want to deal with when gathering with friends and family this holiday season. Did you know that putting the wrong things down the drain can cause your own sewer to back up?

Test your knowledge on proper sewer etiquette: Which of these is okay to put down the drain?

• Hot, soapy water and drippings from turkey, tofurkey, or turducken
• A pot of gourmet coffee made after a late night
• That batch of lumpy gravy with too much milk
• Paper towels used to wipe up the candied yams that fell on the floor
• None of the above

Wastewater drain with grease and oil residue on top of water.

Correct answer: Brewed coffee is the only item on this list that should go down the drain.

Don’t flush trouble: Say no to FOG!

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can clog pipes like old arteries, sending your sewage back into your home. If FOG gets gummed up with wipes, paper towels, or other trash, you may need a qualified plumber to clear the pipes before you can use your toilets and drains again! Grease can wreak havoc for pipes in your home and across our regional wastewater system. The image above shows what can happen when too much FOG clogs our pipes. You can see the thick layer of fat and rags building up along the sides of the pipe.

Prepare your home or business for the rain

During the wet weather season, groundwater and stormwater can enter the sewer system through cracks in the pipes or from roof and foundation drains connected to the sewer system, taking up extra capacity.

The graphic shows how groundwater and rainwater can get into the sewer. Cracks from old pipes and tree roots let groundwater seep in. Roof drains attached to the sewer also send rain into the pipes.

You can help by doing the following to keep rain out of the sewer system, reduce the chances of overflows into nearby waterways, and control flooding in your yard or business:

• Inspect and maintain your side sewer: Schedule periodic inspections by a plumbing professional.
• Disconnect your downspouts from the sewer: Ensure downspouts, yard drains, and sump pumps are connected to the storm system, not the sewer system.
• Keep your rain to yourself: Use rain barrels, cisterns, and rain gardens to keep your rainwater on-site to reduce runoff.
• Plant a utility-friendly landscape (or make plans for next year): Avoid planting trees that are drain seekers! Check city and utility websites for advice on landscaping around underground and overhead utilities.

Learn more about what you can do at kingcounty.gov/ManageRain.

Read how King County WTD prepares for rain in this WTD blog article and this year’s Brightwater newsletter (also available in Español, 中文, 正體字, and Русский).

Wonder what happens to the water you flush? Join a plant tour!

Are you interested in learning about what goes on behind the fence at Brightwater? We offer tours throughout the year. Find out when tours are happening and sign up on the Upcoming Events webpage.

To request a tour for groups such as a university class, work team, or larger community group, fill out the online form or email Kristin.Covey@kingcounty.gov.

A group of people learn about the wastewater treatment process inside the Brightwater Treatment Plant.

Subscribe to The Bubbler

Sign up for The Bubbler newsletter to follow King County Wastewater Treatment Division’s latest news and updates on clean water investments. Get caught up by checking out the past issues, available on The Bubbler website.

Questions or Comments?

Email us at Brightwater@kingcounty.gov or call 206-296-7432. If you would like a call back, please leave a voicemail with your phone number. To learn more about Brightwater, visit us online at kingcounty.gov/Brightwater.

Interpretation and translation services are available to you at no cost. If you need them, please contact Brightwater@kingcounty.gov or call 206-296-7432. Please leave a message with your phone number and language if you would like a call back.

Los servicios de interpretación y traducción disponibles para usted sin costo alguno. Si los necesita, comuníquese con Brightwater@kingcounty.gov o llame al 206-296-7432. Deje un mensaje de voz con su número de teléfono y su idioma si desea que le regresen la llamada.

免費為您提供口譯和筆譯服務。如果您需要這些服 務，請聯絡 Brightwater@kingcounty.gov.

免费为您提供口译和笔译服务。如果您需要这些服 务，请联络 Brightwater@kingcounty.gov.

Alternative Formats Available: 206-477-5371 or TTY Relay: 711

Formatos alternativos disponibles: 206-477-5371 o retransmisión TTY: 711