combined sewer overflow (CSO) systems
A combined sewer overflow (CSO) system is a type of wastewater management system that combines both stormwater and sewage in a single pipe. During heavy rainfall or snowmelt, these systems can become overwhelmed, leading to excess water being discharged directly into nearby water bodies. This can result in pollution and environmental concerns.
To manage CSOs, cities often implement storage tanks or treatment facilities to reduce the impact of overflow events. Regulations and monitoring are essential to ensure that CSO discharges meet safety standards, protecting public health and the environment from potential contaminants.