CHATEAUROUX LES ALPES CHEF LIEU Wastewater Treatment Plant, Saint-Marcelin, France

CHATEAUROUX LES ALPES CHEF LIEU is a wastewater treatment plant located in the commune of Châteauroux-les-Alpes, in the Hautes-Alpes department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France. It serves the local population of Saint-Marcelin and surrounding areas, with a population equivalent of 2,267. The plant is situated in the alpine region, near the Durance River valley. The plant provides secondary treatment, which is the standard biological treatment required under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC) for agglomerations of this size (between 2,000 and 10,000 population equivalent). Secondary treatment typically involves biological oxidation and sedimentation to remove organic matter and suspended solids. The plant has a designed capacity of 4,000 m³/day, with an average daily discharge volume of approximately 404 m³, indicating ample capacity for current loads. The treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the Durance River, a major tributary of the Rhône. The Durance River supports diverse aquatic life and is an important water resource for irrigation and hydroelectric power in the region. The plant's operation helps protect the water quality of this sensitive alpine river system.

The plant discharges into the Durance River basin, which flows into the Rhône River and eventually the Mediterranean Sea. The Durance is a dynamic alpine river that supports a variety of fish species, including the endangered Rhône streber. The watershed is ecologically sensitive due to its role in maintaining biodiversity and providing water for agriculture and energy. The plant's secondary treatment helps reduce nutrient and organic pollution, safeguarding the river's ecological health.