Latham McDonald's Employee Caught Dumping Grease in Storm Drain, Prompting DEC Investigation

Key points

• A customer captured video of a McDonald's employee dumping grease into a storm drain in Latham on Thursday evening.
• Colonie Town Supervisor Peter Crummey confirmed the improper disposal, noting the waste entered both town and state water systems along Route 9.
• The DEC is investigating the violation of the Environmental Conservation Law, with cleanup required by Monday.
• Officials state there is no immediate threat to public health, though the incident poses environmental risks to the Hudson River.
• The McDonald's area supervisor confirmed a contractor has been hired to clean the contaminated system.

Background

This incident follows a period of significant weather-related infrastructure stress in the Northeast, including a nor'easter in late September that caused widespread flooding and power outages. While that event was meteorological, the current issue highlights ongoing challenges in waste management and environmental compliance within local water systems.

Why it matters

Improper disposal of grease into storm drains bypasses wastewater treatment facilities, directly polluting local waterways like the Hudson River. This incident underscores the importance of proper waste disposal protocols in commercial establishments and the role of public reporting in enforcing environmental regulations. It also highlights the potential for localized pollution to have broader ecological impacts, even if immediate public health risks are minimal.

What to watch

The DEC investigation is ongoing, and the McDonald's location must demonstrate that the contaminated system has been fully cleaned through a town inspection. If remediation is not completed, judicial action may be taken against the property owner. The area supervisor has confirmed that a cleanup crew will be on-site by Monday.