Shaker’s sewer project engineers recognize that extreme rainfall is likely to continue due to climate change. Residents can help ease the burden on sewers, much the same as we make energy-efficiency improvements in our homes. Homeowners can install low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets, which also reduce water and sewer bills. And while original toilets from the 1920s can be aesthetically appealing, they can also use seven times the amount of water per flush. For the really ambitious, or those doing a full bathroom renovation, you can install a graywater system that re-uses the drain water from your sink and shower for flushing the toilet. An average 1,200 square-foot roof generates approximately 750 gallons of water during a 1-inch rainfall. This water can be captured in rain barrels or a cistern and used for plants and lawns. Residents can create rain gardens in their yard to capture water (including from disconnected downspouts). Several organizations can help with resources and designs, including the Doan Brook Watershed Partnership. While the pipes inside a home are obviously the homeowner’s (or the landlord’s) responsibility, this responsibility extends to the two sewer lines outside (laterals) that connect to the City sewers. The sanitary lateral connects sinks, toilets, and showers to the sanitary sewer, while the storm lateral connects gutters, downspouts, and foundation drains to the storm sewer. Laterals are the original clay pipes installed when the home was built. Over the years, they may become broken, clogged, or infiltrated with tree roots. Broken or leaky laterals can result in seepage between the pipes, so it is recommended residents have them inspected and cleaned every three to five years. Replacing these sewer pipes is critical for flood prevention and ensuring that sanitary waste gets to the treatment plant. Making investments today will have long-lasting benefits, and many of the steps you can take at home can also save you money. It’s another investment in sustainability that’s a win for everyone. Michael Peters is the City’s sustainability coordinator. A second section of existing sewer along this stretch of Lomond will be rehabilitated and connect to a new section of 18-inch sewer along Lynnfield. Like Sherrington, a trench will be cut into Lynnfield, restricting some traffic for part of the construction process. In total, these rehabilitated sections will serve 250 acres of the City and improve the conditions for roughly 1,200 properties. These improvements will reduce the frequency of CSO events and alleviate much of the flooding the neighborhood has experienced, providing benefits to residents and the environment alike. SL WWW.SHAKER.LIFE | SUMMER 2022 63
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