Dana Point : 2-Mile-Long Sea Sewer Line Passes Inspection

A two-mile-long ocean sewage outfall line that runs to sea off Dana Point has been declared in sound condition after an inspection by divers.

The outfall, 57 inches in diameter, is operated by the South East Regional Reclamation Authority (SERRA). According to SERRA General Manager Bill Becker, the 10-year-old sewer line carries waste water collected from Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Rancho Mission Viejo, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano and then treats it at SERRA’s plant in Dana Point.

The pipe is protected from ocean currents by a rock ballast and a diffuser system that allows effluents to be dispersed gradually into the ocean. Becker said the pipeline and diffuser are in good working order and need only removal of marine growth, which will be done by divers in the spring.

--Gordon Grant