Sewage Crisis: A Lesson for Small Businesses in Government Contracting
In recent news, the ongoing dialogue between local, state and federal agencies highlights important issues surrounding environmental responsibility and federal engagement amidst a significant ecological disaster. A sewage spill dumped more than 200 million gallons of wastewater flowed into the Potomac River after a section of the Potomac Interceptor. The broken sewer line in the Washington, DC, suburb of Montgomery County, Maryland, collapsed on Jan. 19th. While this may seem distant from the day-to-day operations of small businesses working with government contracts, there are always lessons to glean from such situations that can directly affect your own ventures.
The Backstory of the Sewage Spill
The Potomac River recently faced a severe sewage spill caused by a collapse of a major sewer pipe managed by DC Water, a utility regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The incident has garnered public attention, with Trump criticizing Governor Moore for a lagging response, despite questions around jurisdiction and accountability. This scenario has broader implications as we examine the interaction between government entities, private contractors and the communities they serve.
“DC Water, the utility authority that operates the Potomac Interceptor, says no new sewer overflow has gone into the river since Jan. 29. But local researchers have detected high levels of fecal-related bacteria and disease-causing pathogens in the river, including E. coli and bacteria that cause staph infections.”
What Can Small Businesses Learn?
As small businesses involved with government contracts with Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB), or HUBZone businesses, it’s crucial to understand two critical elements. The structure within which you operate and the channels for creating positive change in your community.
Massive cleanups and remediations like this will require years of environmental impact studies, utilities support, plumbing, wastewater treatment, wildlife and planting plans, and so much more. All of which will be provided my private government contractors through local, state and federal contracts. In 2025, the state of Maryland’s budget involves billions in spending with major investments including a $63.1 billion overall budget proposal. Here is how to get a piece of the pie.
1. Local, State and Federal Jurisdictions:
The ongoing conflict illustrates the complexities of jurisdiction in government responses. For small businesses engaging with the U.S. government, it’s necessary to grasp how local, state, and federal policies interrelate. By understanding where your contracts fall within these rules, you can better position your business to meet compliance and seize opportunities.
2. Building Strong Relationships:
Reaching out to local government agencies and establishing connections can open doors. Influence often hinges on relationships, and your role in community welfare can enhance your reputation. As highlighted by the accusations against the local Maryland government, when municipalities appear slow to act, it can reflect poorly on businesses connected to government programs. You can be a part of the solutions your community needs. Remember, local governments reach out to local businesses for support yet if you aren’t registered, you’re invisible regardless of your specialized skillset.
3. Hazard Preparedness and Environmental Responsibility:
The sewage spill serves as a reminder of the importance of having emergency plans. Whether it’s an environmental disaster or another type of crisis, having a prepared strategy will not only protect your business but also position you as a responsible contractor with the government.
Positioning Your Business for Growth: Government Contracts
From understanding the implications of larger environmental crises to effectively communicating with federal agencies, positioning yourself within the government contracting landscape is critical.
Funding Sources and Opportunities:
For small businesses, especially those qualifying under various government classifications (VOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone), there are numerous funding opportunities available. It’s worth considering how your business can leverage these benefits to enhance your operations and capabilities.
Resources for Government Contracting:
– Government Contracting Basics: A starting point for understanding the essentials of government contracts.
– Access to Capital: Information on funding options specifically designed for small businesses.
– GSA Schedule Preparation: Guidance on how to prepare your GSA schedule submission.
Concluding Thoughts
As small businesses, your ability to connect the lessons learned from these political and environmental discussions to your operations can lead to improved strategies. The situation involving Maryland’s sewage crisis underlines the importance of accountability, preparedness, and robust relationships within government contracting.
Instead of waiting for extreme situations, be proactive in building your business’s capabilities to comply with government standards and seek opportunities that support you and your community.
Sources:
1. PBS NewsHour: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-lashes-out-at-maryland-governors-over-potomac-river-sewage-spill-response
2. EPA Information on Sewage Management: https://www.epa.gov/safewater)
3. USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2026/02/18/dc-sewer-spill-locals/88724201007/
4. DC Water: https://www.dcwater.com/about-dc-water/media/news/dc-water-advances-work-repair-damaged-section-potomac-interceptor
Navigate the world of government contracting with clarity and purpose. Aim to be a partner in growth and responsibility for your community.
