Workflow Evansville

Evansville Water and Sewer Utility Extends Hauled-Waste Receiving Station Operations by Six Months

The Evansville Water and Sewer Utility (EWSU) announced today that it will extend operations of its septic waste and fats, oils, and grease (FOG) receiving station at the East Wastewater Treatment Plant until July 1, 2026.

Operations had been set to end January 1.

EWSU has been in active discussion with local septic and FOG haulers since August regarding the planned closure of the receiving station. In recent weeks, many haulers have indicated they need more time to secure and finalize alternative disposal arrangements. The six-month extension provides additional flexibility for haulers while EWSU continues supporting the transition.

“We value the haulers as important partners in protecting public health and the environment,” said Vic Kelson, Executive Director of EWSU. “Our team has been working with them since August, and we’ll continue to do so. This extension gives everyone more time to prepare, while we stay committed to long-term solutions that keep our wastewater system reliable, efficient, and sustainable.”

Support for Septic-Waste Haulers

EWSU’s Board has approved specifications allowing privately owned septic disposal sites to be developed within the EWSU collection system. These privately developed sites will provide long-term capacity once the receiving station closes. EWSU’s Private Development team is available to answer design and permitting questions. Haulers can contact Deputy Director of Compliance Ashley Pike at apike@ewsu.com for assistance.

Support for FOG Haulers

Several private waste-management companies are exploring or advancing plans for new FOG processing facilities. Because these facilities can often be built and operated more cost-effectively by private entities, they may offer the most sustainable long-term solution for the region. EWSU will continue coordinating with haulers and private companies as needed to ensure environmental and operational compatibility.

Commitment to a Steady Transition

EWSU will continue meeting directly with haulers to provide guidance and help ensure readiness ahead of the new July 1, 2026 closure date. The extension will not affect day-to-day sewer service for residents or businesses.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What did EWSU announce?

EWSU announced that it will extend operations of the septic waste and fats, oils, grease (FOG) receiving station at the East Wastewater Treatment Plant from January 1, 2026, to July 1, 2026.

2. Why is the receiving station’s closure being delayed?

Many local septic and FOG haulers indicated they need more time to finalize alternative disposal arrangements. The six-month extension offers haulers additional flexibility while EWSU continues to support their transition to long-term solutions.

3. How has EWSU been working with haulers?

Since August, EWSU has been in active discussions with local haulers to help them prepare for the planned closure. EWSU will continue meeting with haulers directly throughout the transition period.

4. Will this extension affect sewer service for residents or businesses?

No. The extension will not impact day-to-day sewer service for any customers.

5. What support is available for septic-waste haulers?

EWSU has approved specifications that allow the development of privately owned septic disposal sites within the EWSU collection system. Once built, these private sites can provide long-term capacity after the receiving station closes.

6. Who can haulers contact for design or permitting guidance?

Haulers can contact Ashley Pike, Deputy Director of Compliance, at apike@ewsu.com for assistance.

7. Are alternatives being developed for FOG disposal?

Yes. Several private waste-management companies are exploring or moving forward with plans for new FOG processing facilities.

8. Why are private FOG facilities being encouraged?

FOG processing facilities are often more cost-effective to build and operate privately. Private development may provide the most sustainable long-term solution for the region.

9. Will EWSU remain involved as these facilities develop?

Yes. EWSU will continue coordinating with haulers and private companies to ensure that new facilities meet environmental and operational requirements.

10. When will the receiving station officially close?

The new planned closure date is July 1, 2026.

11. What should haulers do during the extension period?

Haulers are encouraged to:

  • Continue pursuing long-term disposal solutions
  • Work with EWSU on permitting or design questions
  • Attend ongoing coordination meetings with EWSU staff

12. Will EWSU offer additional resources or updates?

Yes. EWSU will provide continued support and guidance to ensure haulers are prepared well before the closure date.