Wastewater Treatment Enhancements
What?
Across seven water reclamation facilities, DPW collects and treats 12 billion gallons of wastewater from over 130,000 households and businesses in the County every year. The investments we make at our water reclamation facilities enable each plant to remove far greater amounts of nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, than required by State and Federal agencies. Currently, we are exceeding performance requirements by 70%. These continued investments in innovative technology and advanced treatment will result in cleaner wastewater that is eventually discharged to our rivers and the Chesapeake Bay.
Why?
Water reclamation facilities process sewage, a significant source of nitrogen and phosphorus, from homes, businesses, and industries across the County. Improving wastewater treatment is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce water pollution and protect aquatic habitats and environments.