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Hyperion's outfall at Dockweiler Beach.
Earlier this week the city's giant Hyperion sewage treatment plant began dumping treated sewage just a mile offshore, due to construction. And today, elevated bacteria levels and the presence of debris such as tampon applicators and hypodermic needles forced closure of a long swath of nearby Dockweiler Beach by the county Department of Public Health. Heal the Bay had warned that using Hyperion's so-called one-mile outfall pipe, instead of the usual outfall that dumps treated effluent further out to sea, could lead to problems along the coast, but this week's rains may have exacerbated the issues. Also, when the one-mile outfall began to be used, accumulated debris from Hyperion may have washed into the ocean.
From Heal the Bay, which has been tracking the plume of treated sewage effluent moving offshore:
The County of Los Angeles' Department of Public Health has declared an offical beach closure at Dockweiler State Beach, covering the area from Ballona Creek to Grand Ave.
The County sent the following information to Heal the Bay tonight:"Beaches and Harbors reported tampon applicators and hypodermic needles on the beach between Culver Blvd (Ballona Creek) and Napoleon St. Current bacteria test results show bacteria levels that exceed State standards extending to Grand Ave. Therefore the closure area was extended to Grand Ave. Due to Hyperion Treatment Plant’s diversion to the 1 mile outfall, they are conducting daily sampling in the area.
According to Beaches and Harbors, Los Angeles City Department of Public Works is uncertain of the origin. They also report that LADPW and Ocean Blue, environmental clean–up contractors, are on site conducting clean-up efforts. Environmental Health Strike Team is also in route to assess the situation.
An update will be provided by 0900 Thursday 9/24/15, or earlier if pertinent information becomes available.
Los Angeles County Lifeguards have been notified to post closure signs."
