FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 21, 2026

For More Information Contact:
Daniel Ferguson
Utility Maintenance Superintendent
Public Works Department
660.627.1291

Sewer smoke testing to occur in some areas this week

(Kirksville, MO) - The City of Kirksville’s Utility Maintenance Division will begin smoke testing sewer lines in certain areas on July 22.

The surveyed areas will be near the intersection of North Franklin Street and West Hickory Street and the intersection of South Baltimore Street and East Fillmore Street.

Some areas of the City are experiencing large stormwater and groundwater infiltration into the City’s sanitary sewer system. This infiltration can cause compliance issues with the City’s wastewater permits through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and put increased stress on the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Sewer smoke testing forces non-harmful candle smoke through the sanitary sewer system in an attempt to identify stormwater and groundwater infiltration. Citizens and businesses should run water into drains to ensure all sewer traps have water in them. This will help prevent smoke from entering a building during this process.

For more information, please contact the Public Works Department at 660.627.1291.

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