The Wastewater Treatment Plant treats sanitary sewage according to standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and by the state of Colorado. The resulting clean water is then released back into the Uncompahgre River.
The plant uses an activated sludge process that includes oxidation ditches and clarifiers. Through this process, bacteria are used to break down waste matter in the sewage. Once the bio-solids are removed, ultraviolet lights are used to disinfect the water, or effluent, before it is discharged to the Uncompahgre River.
Plant Capacity
A major expansion project, completed in 2008, increased the plant's treatment capacity by 50% to 4.32 million gallons per day. Prior to the expansion project, the plant's capacity had not been expanded since it was built in 1984. A grant from the EPA Wastewater Infrastructure Program funded 55% or $1.9 million of the project cost.
Tours
Tours are available between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday. Large groups are scheduled upon special request.
