Overview
Lake Argyle wastewater treatment plant in Western Australia serves a small population of 24 with secondary treatment. It discharges treated effluent near the coast, operating under Australian regulatory standards.
Lake Argyle wastewater treatment plant is located in the remote town of Lake Argyle, Western Australia, within the Shire of Wyndham-East Kimberley. Serving a population of just 24, it is a small-scale facility designed to meet the needs of this isolated community. The plant is situated near the shores of Lake Argyle, a large artificial lake created by the Ord River Dam. The plant provides secondary treatment, which is the standard level required for small communities under Australian wastewater regulations. Secondary treatment typically involves biological processes to reduce organic matter and suspended solids. The plant's discharge volume is recorded at 6.31 units, reflecting its small service population. The treated effluent is discharged into the local environment, which ultimately drains into the Ord River system and then into the Timor Sea. The region is ecologically sensitive, supporting diverse aquatic life and important migratory bird species. The plant's proximity to the coast (within 10 km) means that proper treatment is essential to protect downstream marine ecosystems.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the Lake Argyle catchment, which feeds the Ord River and eventually flows into the Timor Sea. This watershed supports a unique ecosystem, including freshwater fish and waterbirds. The coastal discharge point requires careful management to prevent nutrient enrichment in the marine environment, which could affect seagrass beds and coral communities in the region.
Frequently asked questions
The plant is located on Lake Argyle Road in Lake Argyle, Western Australia, within the Shire of Wyndham-East Kimberley.
The plant serves a small population of 24 people, reflecting the remote and low-density nature of the Lake Argyle community.
The plant discharges treated effluent into the local environment, which drains into the Ord River system and ultimately reaches the Timor Sea.
The plant provides secondary treatment, which is the standard required for small communities under Australian wastewater regulations.
Wastewater treatment in Australia is regulated at state and territory levels, with national guidelines from the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling and the National Water Quality Management Strategy. Plants must meet discharge standards to protect receiving waters.
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