Letter to the Editor: Outdated sewage systems are dangerous for residents, causes bacteria at beaches

Dear Editor,

Nathan Prewett’s recent article about federal funding cuts to sewage projects in Lowndes County highlights the crucial role wastewater infrastructure plays in protecting public health. Outdated and deteriorated sewage systems can expose people to raw sewage, putting families and children at risk.  

A new report released by Environment America Research & Policy Center cites failing wastewater infrastructure as a primary cause of fecal bacteria pollution at Alabama beaches. According to the report, 9 Alabama beaches had unsafe levels of fecal bacteria on at least 25% of days tested last year, with Orange Beach Waterfront Park unsafe on 44% of days tested.

Swimming in water with unsafe bacteria levels can cause gastrointestinal illness, respiratory disease, ear and eye infection, and skin rash. 

We shouldn’t allow failing water infrastructure to threaten our health and quality of life. Instead, we should stop the sewage overflows and stormwater runoff that bring harmful bacteria to our beaches.

Families interested in learning more about the latest health advisories and information from their favorite local beaches can read our new report here.

Sincerely,

Devon Bell, Summer Associate

Environment America Research & Policy Center

To send a letter to the editor, send to news@blackbeltnewsnetwork.com.