Smoke Testing

The District uses smoke to detect leaks in the sewer system. Smoke testing involves injecting smoke into a sewer manhole and noting where the smoke comes to the surface. The goal of the test is to identify direct leaks in the sewer system. The smoke is non-toxic, stainless, odorless, and vegetable based.

The District in conjunction with SD Rural Water have smoke tested the District lines. This is an on going effort that will continue on as part of our maintenance program.  The District would like to thank Jerry Hemeyer and Nick Jackson from SD Rural Water for their assistance with the smoke testing. You can learn more about SD Rural Water by visiting their web site at: http://www.sdarws.com/

The most common issue that was found was clean outs were either missing caps or they were broken. This is a very easy fix that requires putting on a new cap. Caps for 4″ clean outs can be purchased locally and are inexpensive. If you have questions or need assistance, please call our office at 642-4870.

Camera Inspections and Jetting

The District maintains approximately 11 miles of pipe and 221 manholes. The District in conjunction with A1 Sewer and Drain have a maintenance program that routinely jets and cameras all of the District sewer lines. Closed circuit television inspections ((CCTV) use a video camera to record the condition of a sewer pipe. The camera tractor is remote controlled from the surface; video footage is reviewed to identify any defects such as cracks, root intrusions or leaky joints.

Inflow and Infiltration (I&I)

Inflow, rainwater that enters the sanitary sewer and Infiltration, groundwater that seeps into the sanitary sewer can be a particular problem with private lines. Problems may result from improper plumbing connections, cracked sewer pipes, outdated piping materials, or the construction practices of the day.

As a property owner, you own and are responsible for maintaining the sewer lateral (pipe) that connects your house to the Spearfish Valley Sanitary District sewer system.

If a property owner fails to address a sewer line problem arising out of their premises, the District can and will charge them to correct the problem.

The District has produced a brochure to explain Inflow & Infiltration. Stop by the District office to get a copy or you can click here to download the Brochure

Consolidated Ordinance

The District has finished the process of revising and updating our ordinances. A copy of our new and consolidated ordinance can by viewed on line with a PDF reader. Click here to download a copy.