Wasselonne Wastewater Treatment Plant, Grand Est, France | Serving 8,800 People

The Wasselonne wastewater treatment plant is located in the commune of Wasselonne, in the Bas-Rhin department of the Grand Est region, France. It serves a population of approximately 8,800 people, classifying it as a small to medium agglomeration under EU regulations. The plant is situated inland, about 50 km from the coast, and its treated effluent is discharged into the local river system. Under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive 91/271/EEC, agglomerations of this size are required to provide secondary treatment (biological treatment) as a minimum standard. The directive also mandates more stringent treatment if the receiving waters are designated as sensitive areas, such as those prone to eutrophication. The plant's operational details, including specific treatment processes and capacity, are managed by the local authority to ensure compliance with French water quality standards. The treated wastewater from Wasselonne ultimately drains into the Mossig River, a tributary of the Bruche, which flows into the Ill River and then the Rhine. The Rhine basin is a major European waterway supporting diverse aquatic ecosystems and providing drinking water for millions. The plant plays a key role in protecting the water quality of these downstream rivers and the Rhine ecosystem.

The plant discharges into the Mossig River, which flows into the Bruche, then the Ill, and finally the Rhine River. The Rhine is a major European river that supports diverse aquatic life and provides drinking water for millions. The watershed is ecologically sensitive, with habitats for fish species such as salmon and eel, and is an important migratory corridor. Protecting water quality through adequate treatment is essential to prevent eutrophication and maintain biodiversity in the Rhine basin.