More than 20,000 gallons of waste water spilled into a tributary of Barber Creek in Oconee County Sept. 18.

This is the fourth reported sewage spill in Oconee County this year.

The sewer pipe split on Rocky Branch Road across from Old Waverly subdivision.

Pipe fatigue was named the reason for the break.

Water Resources personnel neutralized the spill using lime. They have repaired the sewer pipe back to normal and posted a sign to notify the public of the spill.

“We have done what is required, and we will do beyond what is required to make sure the waterways are safe and accessible to the public,” said Water Resources Assistant Director Mickey Baughcum.

Baughcum said they will continue testing samples upstream and downstream of the spill for water quality for seven consecutive days, then periodically for the rest of the year, in accordance with state regulations.