On July 25, 2024, Park County completed the remediation of an accidental wastewater spill that occurred in the Will-O-Wisp area of Bailey. McDonald Farms, the contractor responsible for the cleanup, ensured that both the affected property and the nearby private residences were adequately restored. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) confirmed that all requested actions to protect surface water were completed, closing the case.
Park County worked in partnership with CDPHE and other agencies to address the situation, prioritizing community health and safety.
The spill, first reported on July 23, 2024, involved wastewater from the Will-O-Wisp Water District. Although neither the CDPHE nor the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had direct jurisdiction over the event, both agencies provided guidance. The clean-up process was overseen by a licensed operator from the Will-O-Wisp Water District and coordinated with private homeowners who were affected by the incident. The thorough efforts by McDonald Farms resulted in a satisfactory outcome, with no long-term environmental or health concerns reported.
McDonald Farms, a specialized environmental cleanup contractor, successfully completed remediation efforts on the Will-O-Wisp property by July 25. The CDPHE’s Water Quality Control Division (WQCD) confirmed that all surface water protections had been adequately addressed, leading to the official closure of the spill incident under case number 2024-0658. Residents impacted by the spill were notified, and cleanup efforts were met with approval.
In response to the spill, Park County has committed to taking preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future. County officials have expressed their empathy for residents affected by the spill and are prioritizing the health and safety of the community. Ongoing collaboration with state agencies will ensure the necessary steps are taken to safeguard against any future wastewater-related incidents.
The county also emphasizes its dedication to transparency, ensuring that residents are kept informed of all developments. Future updates on spill-related actions and any necessary prevention measures will be shared as soon as available.
Residents who were directly affected by the spill or those with concerns about the incident are encouraged to reach out to the Park County Environmental Health Department at 719-836-4267 for further information or assistance.