The Town of Pagosa Springs has asked residents within the General Improvement District to take drastic measures over the next 48 hours following what’s been described as a “critical situation” with the local wastewater system.

According to the town, the submersible pump guide rail system at Pump Station #1 has disconnected, resulting in it currently being out of operation. As a result, this has created the potential for liquid waste to overflow a well. The Pump Station 1 is located at the south end of Yamaguchi Park, which is south of town and found between S. 5th Street and the San Juan River.

At the time, staff is working to obtain an emergency bypass pump that will allow personnel to drain the well and the pump that’s separated. It might not be a quick fix though, with residents asked on January 8 to limit water use over the next two days to minimize stress on the wastewater system.

Basically, residents have been asked to limit the amount of water they’re sending down their drains – regardless of the reason. Officials did, however, provide instruction on a few key ways to cut back:

1. Only flush solid waste and minimize flushing liquid waste.
2. Take shorter showers and baths.
3. Avoid using the sink, washing machine, and dishwasher.

“We’ll keep you updated as soon as we have more information,” reads a note from the town. “Thank you for doing your part to protect our system and prevent further disruptions!”

Updates related to the situation will likely be posted to the town’s Facebook page.

Pagosa Springs is located in southwest Colorado’s Archuleta County with a population of about 1,800 residents.

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