Utility Services

Our goal is to provide clean potable water for our customers as well as maintain a reasonable rate structure that our customers can afford. Our water technicians operate and maintain the three water systems (North Lapwai, South Lapwai, and Kamiah) and the two sewer systems (Kamiah and North Lapwai) serving the Nez Perce Tribe.

Tasks include:
· reading meters
· water testing, repairs
· planning future system upgrades

Water Systems
Our water technicians operate and maintain the three water systems serving the Nez Perce
Tribe:
· North Lapwai
· South Lapwai
· Kamiah

Sewer Systems
· Kamiah
· North Lapwai

Nez Perce Tribe’s Waste Water Treatment Site: Under Construction

wtp

WTP

Sewers & Waste Water Plants vs. FOG (Fats, Oil & Grease)

Fats, Oils, and Greases (FOG) are not just bad for your arteries

FOGand your waistline—they are bad for sewers too. A wastewater sewer system works similarly to the circulatory system of the human body. Wastewater flows through pipes, is pumped at the pump stations, and is cleaned by the wastewater plant. As FOG cools, it hardens, making it a toxic substance for sewer and septic systems. It sticks to the inner lining of drainage pipes and restricts the wastewater flow, eventually causing a blockage. The FOG build up
is the number one cause of public sewage spills and drainfield failure. Luckily, these situations are entirely preventable by:

· Never pouring FOG into your sink or toilet
· Pour FOG into a can- a coffee can works well
· Place a lid over the top
· Store it to be reused until full; when the can is
full, throw it in the trash
· When there is FOG residue in a pan or on a dish, wipe it with
a paper towel before washing and throw that towel in the trash
· Also, place a strainer in the kitchen sink drain to catch food scraps and other solids, then empty the strainer into the trash

Tribal Housing Aerial Plot Maps of Our Customers Homes