Collection

Responsibilities

The Collection staff is responsible for:

  • Cleaning and maintaining over 377 miles of Wastewater lines using equipment such as high-pressure water jet trucks, television cameras that video the inside of sewer lines, vactor trucks, and easement machines
  • Maintaining 31 lift stations and approximately 1700 STEP Systems

STEP Systems

The Collection Division is responsible for maintaining STEP systems.

  • Reporting Problems / Alarms
    If your STEP System sounds an alarm, you can silence it by pushing the RED button on the STEP System control box and then immediately call the Wastewater Treatment Facility at the number located on your box or 406-552-6600. Both of these numbers will reach collection staff at any time, during the day or night including weekends and holidays.
  • Power Outages
    • During long-term power outages of several hours or more, you should minimize water usage. Even though the STEP system's discharge pump and alarm will not operate without power, wastewater from your home can continue to fill the tank if your water service has not been interrupted. Use only what is absolutely necessary. Check basement or lower drains often.
    • If the drains begin to fill with water, discontinue all water usage.Call the Wastewater Division immediately at 406-552-6600.
    • Short-term power outages of a few minutes to a few hours should not be of concern. The reserve tank capacity can handle short-term events like these.

Dye Tests

The Collection Division also performs dye tests in order to verify a connection to the City wastewater system. The Wastewater Division schedules the tests. Call us at 406-552-6600 to schedule this.

Cost

Dye tests are performed at no cost. If the property shows a connection on city records, a dye test cannot be performed.

Requirements

  • The homeowner or a representative needs to be present at the address being tested during the time of the test.
  • Running water needs to be available at the address being tested.

Results

If written results are needed, they can be e-mailed to you. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a dye test, please call 406-552-6600.