Disc Debacle

Concerned beach lovers have been scouring a 40 mile stretch of coast after an overflow at the Hooksett, NH Waste Water Treatment Facility released an estimated 4 to 8 million plastic discs into the Merrimack River on March 6th, 2011.

The discs are used in the water waste system to give helpful bacteria a place to sit and help break down sewage. Unfortunately, there was no alarm system in place to alert anyone about the overflow and it was not until 4 days later that the situation was discovered. Had it not been for the discs, the overflow may not have been discovered at all.



NH Surfrider Foundation, Blue Ocean Society and local surf shops were the first to report the findings and organize clean ups. Crews have been collecting them by the hundreds. Last Saturday's emergency cleanup in Hampton, NH was no exception.



At first glance it seemed challenging to find a disc but then we would happen upon a mass of seaweed in between the rocks and find over 10 in a matter of seconds. We searched until the supermoon, high tide had us up against the wall. No doubt, as we scrambled to find a few more, the sea was getting ready to deposit a fresh batch.

Sure enough, after this morning's surf, I found 15 within a 15 minute timeframe. As I sifted through the seaweed I couldn't help but notice the discs co-mingling with so many other little plastic friends. Still, there is a satisfying feeling with each one found. Something tells me we will be seeing many more in days to come.


Additional information can be found here:
Kruger wins IFAS contract in Hooksett, New Hampshire »
New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services »
NH Surfrider Foundation »
Blue Ocean Society »