Boothbay Harbor Sewer District (BHSD) has passed an April 16 facility inspection by Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).  

However, the district received a recommendation to install a flotation ring on the catwalk area above the treatment tanks; the crew had thrown away the previous ring due to deterioration. Superintendent David Pratt said the new one had been ordered but hadn’t been installed yet when the inspection occurred; it has since been replaced.  

Also, a treatment sample taken April 17 found the enterococci bacteria (in fecal waste) was above the district’s permitted average. Pratt explained this was caused by the test occurring on the day of contact tank cleaning, affecting chemical ratios. BHSD was also awaiting a new shipment of hypochlorite (disinfectant) as its strength weakens over time. Corrective action began immediately.  

Pratt also informed trustees that, due to the federal cuts, BHSD was assigned a new U.S. Department of Agriculture officer. The Scarborough office had been closed. BHSD will conduct business with the office in Bangor.