MCES Lift Station L 39 - Distribution Pump Station in Mound, Minnesota

MCES Lift Station L 39 is a distribution pump station located at 4846 Wilshire Blvd in Mound, Hennepin County, Minnesota. Operated as part of the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) regional wastewater system, this facility plays a key role in conveying wastewater from the Mound area to treatment plants. The station is classified under NAICS 221320 (Sewage Treatment Facilities) and is part of a large, interconnected network serving over 2.5 million residents in the Twin Cities region. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which enforce National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits and state water quality standards. As a lift station, it utilizes pumps to move wastewater uphill or over long distances, ensuring proper flow to regional treatment facilities. Typical infrastructure includes backup power systems and telemetry for remote monitoring to maintain continuous operation. Environmental significance lies in its role in preventing sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) and protecting local water bodies, including nearby Lake Minnetonka and the Mississippi River watershed. By maintaining reliable wastewater conveyance, the station supports public health and water quality in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area. Its operation aligns with MCES's long-term wastewater master plan, which emphasizes system redundancy and capacity management.

The facility operates in the Lake Minnetonka watershed, a region with sensitive aquatic ecosystems and high recreational value. Proper wastewater conveyance is critical to prevent nutrient loading and bacterial contamination that could harm local lakes and streams. The station's redundancy features, such as backup pumps and emergency power, help mitigate risks of overflows during storms or power outages, aligning with state and federal clean water regulations.