Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Program

Program Overview

The Town of Windsor is dedicated to protecting our wastewater collection system through proactive management of fats, oils, and grease (FOG). Our FOG pretreatment program focuses on minimizing the amount of FOG-laden wastewater entering our system from commercial food service establishments. By managing FOG at the source, we prevent costly and environmentally damaging sewer issues. Our environmental compliance inspectors conduct periodic, unannounced inspections to ensure businesses comply with pretreatment regulations, including inspections of pretreatment devices and records. We also offer education on pollution prevention to help them maintain compliance.

What is FOG?

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are byproducts of food preparation activities, primarily generated by food service establishments. Common food items and wastewater from sinks can contribute to FOG. When poured down the drain, FOG cools, solidifies, and sticks to sewer pipes, causing blockages and sewage backups. Preventing these blockages is crucial for public health and protecting the Russian River Watershed from pollution.

Cooking oil
Grease from lard or any source of meat
Dairy products such as milk, ice cream, yogurt, sour cream, cheeses, mayonnaise, salad dressings, butter
Food scraps
Other baking products