Pig parts discovery lead to changes at Benton treatment plant

BENTON, AR - Pig parts are recently found at the Benton waste water plant, prompting an ordinance affecting septic haulers.

Benton city leaders say septic haulers are dumping more than what the system can handle.

"We've had grease dumped on us. We've had animal waste dumped on us in the past," said waste water manager Jonathan Buff.

City leaders could update the facility to accommodate all septic haulers, but the effort would cost almost a million dollars the city can't afford.

So leaders decide Monday night to ban septic haulers from dumping at the site, which affects haulers like James Nulty.

"I'm just like the trash man, I need a place to dump," said Nulty.

But leaders say it is an issue that must be addressed.

"We are obligated to public health and the citizens of Benton," said Buff. 

The ordinance takes effect immediately.

In 2011, septic haulers dumped more than 2 million gallons at the plant, according to Benton leaders.