Wastewater Overview
The United States didn’t establish basic techniques of wastewater collection until the end of the 19th century. The catalysts for centralized wastewater collection systems were significant population increases in urban areas and the emergence of diseases resulting from improper sewage disposal and management. However, wastewater treatment was essentially absent at that time, so collection systems merely transferred the nuisances and public health risks of sewage to adjacent waterways and downstream riparian residents. Wastewater treatment was in place, however, by the mid 1920s in conjunction with the Progressive Movement in the United States. This movement advocated the protection of natural resources, including water quality.
Presently, the Clean Water Act (CWA) addresses surface water quality protection in the United States. The CWA employs a variety of regulatory and non-regulatory tools to minimize direct pollutant discharges into waterways. More broadly, the CWA aims to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters so they can support “the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation in and on the water.” The CWA authorizes the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit Program, which controls water pollution by regulating point source dischargers, like wastewater treatment plants that discharge pollutants into U.S. waters. Since its introduction in 1972, this Program has made significant improvements to our nation’s water quality.
Most homeowners are familiar with the in-home portion of the water cycle, which includes the plumbing fixtures and pipe networks. However, many are unfamiliar with what happens to waste materials after they are flushed or washed down the drain. Wastewater ultimately becomes part of the freshwater supply after a series of treatment steps. This water is eventually used downstream by people, aquatic life, and wildlife, so it must be treated before its release back into the receiving streams. Wastewater primarily originates from sinks, tubs, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers that are found in homes and businesses and is conveyed via a collection system. Wastewater treatment facilities (WWTF) are designed to remove organic material, nutrients, and disease-causing organisms prior to effluent being released back into natural water bodies.
Wastewater treatment technology has improved greatly since the late 1800s. The District is dedicated to the design and implementation of the best treatment technologies to serve the community and protect water quality. The District is aware that preventing water quality degradation is the most effective approach to water quality management. The District operates three WWTFs. These facilities are located in Vail, Avon, and Edwards. Each WWTF has unique features and treatment processes which are described in more detail on the wastewater treatment process page.