What Not to Put in the Sewer on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, IN

Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, is a cherished natural resource that residents and visitors enjoy for boating, fishing, and recreation. However, the health of the lake depends heavily on responsible sewer use. What goes down household drains and toilets doesn’t just disappear—it can directly or indirectly impact water quality, wildlife, and overall lake health. To protect Simonton Lake, it’s essential to understand what should never be put into the sewer system.

Household Chemicals and Hazardous Waste
One of the biggest threats to the lake is improper disposal of chemicals such as paint, solvents, pesticides, and cleaning products. These substances contain toxic compounds that can kill beneficial bacteria in septic systems, contaminate groundwater, and eventually wash into the lake. Instead, residents should take advantage of Elkhart County’s hazardous waste collection programs for safe disposal.

Oils, Fats, and Grease
Pouring cooking oil, bacon grease, or butter down the drain may seem harmless, but these substances harden as they cool. Over time, they cause blockages in pipes and sewer systems, leading to backups that can leak into the environment. Grease also disrupts wastewater treatment processes, contributing to pollution. The safer choice is to collect fats and oils in a container and dispose of them with regular trash.

Non-Biodegradable Items
The sewer system is not designed to handle wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels. Even products labeled “flushable” can clog septic tanks and municipal sewer lines, resulting in costly repairs and possible sewage spills into Simonton Lake. Only human waste and toilet paper should ever be flushed.

Medications
Flushing prescription or over-the-counter medications is harmful because wastewater treatment plants are not equipped to filter out pharmaceuticals. As a result, trace chemicals can enter waterways, affecting fish and other aquatic life. Local pharmacies in Elkhart often have drug take-back programs, which provide safe and environmentally friendly disposal.

Food Waste
While garbage disposals are common, they can overload septic systems and increase nutrient levels in wastewater. Excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus feed algae blooms in Simonton Lake, which reduce oxygen levels and harm fish populations. Composting food scraps or using curbside waste collection is a much safer alternative.

Protecting Simonton Lake
Everyone who lives around or visits Simonton Lake plays a role in keeping it clean and healthy. By following simple guidelines and avoiding harmful substances in the sewer, residents can protect water quality, preserve wildlife habitats, and ensure the lake remains a beautiful recreational area for future generations.

What you put into your drain and toilet directly impacts the environment around Simonton Lake. Avoid pouring chemicals, oils, food waste, or non-biodegradable items into the sewer system. Take advantage of community programs for hazardous waste and medication disposal, and remember: a little responsibility goes a long way toward preserving the natural beauty of Simonton Lake.