Treatment Plant Update

The Sewer District has begun Phase 2 of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade. Part of the process is the removal of almost 40 years of Verdigris sludge accumulation in the current ponds. Microorganisms (bacteria and algae) in the ponds help to decompose organic matter in lagoon systems. Some organic matter settles in the bottom of the ponds and creates sludge. Over time, the depth of the sludge builds and requires removal to make sure that lagoon systems operates efficiently (little odor).

As you are very aware, with recent weather temperature chages, water turnover will periodically happen. The recent turnover in one of our ponds disturbed settled sludge and released the odorous gases that were very noticable. The upcoming sludge removal is probably the most vital part of the new plant rebuild process as it resets the lagoon ponds to "ground zero" of sludge accumulation.  Odros will most likely be present during the sludge removal of cell 2 (estimated removal February 2nd for 2 days).  In 7-9 weeks after the cell 2 sludge removal, cells 1 and 3 will also have sludge removal done.  

With modern process technology, new ponds and the added size and depth to the exisiting ponds that is about to happen, we anticiapte it will be another 30-40 years before the sludge will have to be addressed again.  To be clear, no part of the new plant has been in operation. When cell 2 work begins, this will be the first time any of the new ponds we built and equipment will be used.  If you have any questions, please call the District Manager at 918-266-0003.