Download Media Release - Kitsap Public Health District

Media Release
th
345 6 Street, Suite 300
Bremerton, WA 98337
kitsappublichealth.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2013
CONTACT:
Kimberly Jones
360-337-5222
[email protected]
Health District to Kick Off Dyes Inlet Pathogen Reduction Project
BREMERTON, WAThe Kitsap Public Health District will hold a project kickoff meeting and
septic system workshop for its Dyes Inlet Pathogen Reduction Project on Wednesday, January
30, 2013, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Westgate Community Center, located at 1550 Rocky
Point Road, in Bremerton.
In 2012, the Health District was awarded a Centennial Clean Water Fund grant from the
Washington State Department of Ecology to conduct a targeted fecal bacteria clean-up of
southern Dyes Inlet, including Kitsap Lake. This project is helping to implement the Washington
State Department of Ecology’s water quality cleanup plan (Total Maximum Daily Load) for
Dyes Inlet. The Kitsap County Surface and Storm Water Management Program is a partner in
this project and is providing matching funds for it.
The purpose of this project is to reduce levels of fecal coliform bacteria contamination in the
inlet. Fecal pollution comes from human or animal waste and contains pathogens that are a threat
to public health. Health District staff will be investigating all freshwater drainages to the
southern shore of Dyes Inlet.
The kickoff event will include a workshop on the basic mechanics of septic systems, and
maintenance tips to help maximize system life. A wide variety of free printed material will be
available, including the District’s “Homeowner Septic System Manual”, and information on nontoxic alternatives to household cleaners. Free water conservation items, such as low-flow shower
heads and “toilet tummies”, will also be available upon request. A question and answer period
will follow the presentations.
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