Member Spotlight

The Sacramento Area Sewer District (SacSewer) plays a vital role in protecting public health and the environment, and they know that mission starts with their customers. That’s why ongoing public education is a key part of SacSewer’s work, helping residents understand how to be responsible sewer stewards.

A major focus of SacSewer’s customer outreach is preventing harmful items like disposable wipes and fats, oils and grease (FOG), from entering the sewer system. In preparation for implementing California SB1383, which requires local jurisdictions to compost organic waste at the household level, SacSewer saw an opportunity to refresh its Stop the Clog campaign.

The updated campaign now features playful, eye-catching messaging designed to support the new requirements. Central to the effort is an unforgettable cast of characters—the SacTown Clog Squad and the SacTown Unflushables.

At the heart of the campaign are animated videos, including 60-second mashups featuring these misfit “pipe invaders.” Each character is also spotlighted in a short feature that clears up common misconceptions, promotes proper disposal habits and delivers memorable calls to action that encourage behavior change.

These sewer system “villains” are high on SacSewer’s most-wanted list for the damage they can cause. Once in the system, they can bind with roots, create blockages, and lead to costly backups and overflows, posing risks to both residents and the environment.

By using humor and creativity to engage the public, SacSewer is making proper disposal education more accessible, effective, and fun. The Stop the Clog campaign is a great example of how clear messaging and community engagement can make a lasting impact. Learn more and meet the Clog Squad at sacsewer.com/stop-the-clog.

NACWA awarded the Sacramento Area Sewer District a 2025 National Environmental Achievement Award in the Public Information & Education - Video category for its imaginative campaign. Congratulations to everyone involved!