The Southern Ute Indian Tribe, located in southwestern Colorado, views wastewater treatment as a crucial investment. This commitment has led to the establishment of an award-winning treatment facility that benefits both local residents and businesses. The tribe’s focus on environmental protection is evident in the high quality of its water and wastewater management systems.
Historical Context
Previously, the community relied on ineffective lagoons for wastewater treatment, which limited growth. To overcome these challenges, the tribe took control of the wastewater treatment and collection system. In 1999, they commissioned a new extended aeration oxidation ditch plant designed to serve approximately 1,400 tribal members and 700 residents of Ignacio.
Continuous Improvement
Since its inception, the tribe has made continuous improvements to maintain the facility’s modernity and address potential issues proactively. The Southern Ute utilities, including water and wastewater services, have been managed by the Southern Ute Growth Fund since 2000. This fund has distributed dividends to the tribal community, showcasing the success of the treatment plant.
Treatment Process Overview
The Southern Ute plant operates with a capacity of 0.8 million gallons per day (mgd) and currently functions at about 50% capacity. The treatment process involves several key steps:
- Screening: Sewage is screened through a Rotamat fine screen (Huber Technology) and grit channels.
- Oxidation Ditch: The sewage flows into an anoxic zone followed by a race track configuration within the oxidation ditch.
- Nitrification/Denitrification: The system employs the Baker Hughes Carrousel denitIR system for ammonia removal.
- Clarification: After treatment, mixed liquor is directed to one of two deep clarifiers.
- Disinfection: A Trojan Technologies ultraviolet light system disinfects the effluent before discharge into Rock Creek.
Operational Parameters
The plant maintains specific operational parameters to ensure optimal performance:
- Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS): 2,000 to 3,000 mg/L
- Mixed Liquor Volatile Suspended Solids (MLVSS): 70 to 85%
- Effluent Temperature: Ranges from 38 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit
- Loading: 400 to 600 pounds
- Sludge Retention Times (SRTs): 40 to 60 days
Performance Metrics
The Southern Ute plant consistently achieves exceptional performance metrics:
- BOD and Suspended Solids: Levels typically less than 2 mg/L, with removals exceeding 99%.
- Ammonia Reduction: Concentrations reduced from 20-30 mg/L to less than 0.05 mg/L.
- Fecal Coliform Counts: Generally below 1 geometric mean.
- Effluent Turbidity: Ranges from 1 to 2 NTU.
Despite challenging conditions such as snow and cold at an altitude of 6,400 feet, the facility only requires minor adjustments for seasonal variations.
Recognition and Awards
In recognition of its excellence, the Southern Ute plant received a 2007 U.S. EPA Clean Water Act Recognition Award in the small advanced plant category. The EPA praised the tribe for its competitive pay structure, growth opportunities, and commitment to training and education programs.
Automation and Control Systems
The plant employs an advanced automation and control system:
- Staffed for 40 hours per week, utilizing an Intellution iFIX SCADA system from Kepware Technologies for remote monitoring.
- An automated Cummins Onan diesel generator serves as a standby power source.
Septage Management
Effective septage management is crucial for maintaining operational integrity. The SCADA system monitors septage loads from portable toilets and septic tanks, enabling real-time adjustments to mixer rates in response to changes in dissolved oxygen levels.
The Southern Ute Wastewater Treatment Plant exemplifies the tribe’s dedication to environmental stewardship and public health. Through innovative practices and continuous improvement efforts, it serves as a model for sustainable wastewater management.
Focus Keyphrase: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Wastewater Treatment
For more information about their initiatives, visit Southern Ute Growth Fund or learn about their EPA permits
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