LOLO RSID 8901 - LIFT STATION #1: Distribution Pump Station in Lolo, Montana

LOLO RSID 8901 - LIFT STATION #1 is a distribution pump station located at 320 Red Fox Rd in Lolo, Montana, within Missoula County. This facility is part of the United States' extensive wastewater infrastructure network, which is regulated under the Clean Water Act and state-level water quality standards. As a lift station, it plays a critical role in conveying wastewater from lower to higher elevations, ensuring proper flow to treatment facilities. The facility operates under the jurisdiction of Montana's Department of Environmental Quality, which enforces mechanical and electrical safety codes for pump stations. While specific technical specifications such as flow capacity are not detailed, typical lift stations in rural Montana communities handle moderate flows, often serving populations of a few thousand. The station's operational status indicates it is actively maintained to meet local service demands. Environmental significance lies in its role in preventing sewage overflows and protecting local water bodies, including the Bitterroot River and Clark Fork River watersheds. By maintaining reliable wastewater conveyance, the station supports public health and ecological balance in the Lolo area. Its location in a seismically stable region reduces certain infrastructure risks, though aging equipment and power outages remain common challenges for rural pump stations.

The Lolo area is characterized by a mix of rural residential and agricultural land use, with the Bitterroot River nearby. Proper wastewater pumping is essential to prevent untreated discharges into these sensitive waterways, which support trout fisheries and irrigation. The station's operation aligns with Montana's non-degradation policy for water quality, emphasizing the need for redundancy and regular maintenance to mitigate spill risks.