An estimated 100,000 gallons of what's called "reuse" water was spilled underground after a fitting connecting two pipes broke, the Hayden Area Regional Sewer Board said.

The release occurred on Friday, Sept. 9, at the wastewater plant site. It was discovered when the water started bubbling on the surface.

Administrator Ken Windram said the water is the same used to water a tree farm and crops. He said they don't know what caused the fitting to fail.

He said the "T" fitting and three-inch pipes were installed in 1996. It was buried six feet in the ground.

The estimated volume of water released was based on the measure of plant pressures and flows.

He said he believes the spill was actually less than 100,000 gallons.

The damage has been repaired, costing about $600 to $1,000, he said.

Stronger and thicker pipe was used, and a concrete casting was used around the fitting, he said.

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has been contacted and will do a hydrologic study, which is standard procedure, he said.

The hydro-geological study will evaluate potential impacts to groundwater, he said.

"We fully expect the report will show there was no impact," he said.

At this time, he said, there is no indication of impact to public health.

The Hayden Area Regional Sewer Board oversees sewer service to the city of Hayden, the Coeur d'Alene airport (in Hayden), and the Hayden Lake Recreational Water and Sewer District.

The plant is at 10789 N. Atlas Road, in Hayden.