What are FOGs?

FOGs refer to a category of substances that commonly accumulate in plumbing systems, particularly in kitchen sinks and drains. FOGs include cooking oils, animal fats, butter, margarine, lard, grease, dairy products, salad dressing, etc.

Examples

When fats, oils, and grease are dumped down the drain, it forms large, thick grease balls that clog pipes. Clogged pipes can result in sewer backups and spills, create environmental problems, cause traffic tie-ups or even flood homes and businesses. Commercial food-handling facilities contribute greatly to FOG buildup in sewer lines because of the amount of grease used in cooking and other food prep work. Preventing sewer backups from FOG blockages also saves money. 

 The objectives of the program are:

1.  To educate persons, both residential and commercial, the dangers of improper disposal of FOGs (and other solids as well!) into our sewer system
2. To work collaboratively with all parties involved to ensure that we minimize FOGs into our sewer system

Below are actual photos of Grand Island, Nebraska's sewers with FOG build-up!

Who does FOGs affect?

The City – Increased sewer backups caused by FOGs can lead to an increase demand of City dollars to clear sewer lines and make costly repairs. This can potentially lead to an increase in sewer fees.

Residential – Similar to the food establishments, smells and pests can occur. Being residential, all costly repairs will be at the owner themselves!

Businesses – Food service establishments (FSEs) especially can be negatively impacted by FOGs. As the plumbing begins to get clogged, bits of food particulates are trapped. Smells began to develop and pests began to fester. This can lead to potential health hazards to staff and patrons alike, as well as loss of revenue due to closure orders from health violations and potential fines from non-compliance

The Environment – Clogged sewer systems can lead to sanitary sewer overflows. These overflows will be in our streets, and run off into our storm-water system and consequently into our lakes. This can pose risks to our aquatic life as well as for those who swim. If FOGs gets into our storm water drains, clogging can occur leading to flooding in our streets and into our homes.

By taking simple steps to properly dispose of grease, you can help prevent clogs and backups in your plumbing system, saving you time, money, and potential headaches down the line.