Since 1972, more than $41 billion in federal funds plus nearly $118 billion in matching state and local funds have been devoted to improving the level of municipal wastewater treatment.
The results of this investment are seen in water bodies across the country. Lakes and rivers that once seemed polluted beyond hope have come back to life, and are once again supporting activities such as swimming and fishing.
The modern wastewater treatment plant is in fact a complex technological marvel. Operators rely on sophisticated computerized systems such as SCADA to optimize the plant’s performance. Facilities invest heavily in the latest methods of aeration, disinfection, and odor control. What were once places the public tried hard to avoid are now popular destinations for school field trips.
The progress is impressive, but many challenges remain. Sophisticated wastewater treatment plants require highly trained operators who must periodically undergo additional training to stay on top of new technology and processes. For almost 50 years, NEIWPCC has worked closely with state agencies and EPA to provide training programs on all aspects of wastewater pollution control, management, and operations. Please visit the Training section of this site for more information.
We also produce technical guidelines and reports, such as TR-16: Guides for the Design of Wastewater Treatment Works. Initially produced in 1967 and revised in 1980, 1998, and 2011, TR-16 remains one of NEIWPCC’s most requested publications. The latest update reflects additional design considerations for storm resiliency.
NEIWPCC is also actively involved in bringing new talent into the wastewater field, whether it be by working with our local career centers or through our longstanding participation in EPA’s Youth and the Environment program.