Quiroga Wastewater Treatment Plant: Serving Quiroga, Michoacán, Mexico

The Quiroga wastewater treatment plant is located in the city of Quiroga, in the state of Michoacán, Mexico. It serves a population of approximately 13,691 residents, classifying it as a medium-sized municipal facility. The plant is situated inland, away from coastal areas, and its operations are subject to Mexican environmental regulations, including NOM-001-SEMARNAT-1996 which sets limits for pollutant discharges into national waters. As a municipal plant serving a medium agglomeration, the Quiroga facility is expected to provide at least secondary treatment to meet national discharge standards. Mexican regulations require treatment to reduce organic matter and suspended solids, with more stringent requirements for plants discharging into sensitive water bodies. Typical facilities of this scale employ biological treatment systems such as activated sludge or stabilization ponds. The plant discharges treated wastewater into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into Lake Pátzcuaro, a large freshwater lake of ecological and cultural significance. Lake Pátzcuaro supports diverse aquatic life and is an important resource for local communities. The plant's operation plays a key role in protecting the lake's water quality and the downstream environment.

The Quiroga wastewater treatment plant discharges into the local drainage network that flows into Lake Pátzcuaro, a large high-altitude lake in Michoacán. The lake is an ecologically sensitive water body that supports endemic fish species and migratory birds. Protecting its water quality is critical for maintaining biodiversity and the livelihoods of surrounding communities. The plant's treated effluent must meet Mexican standards to prevent nutrient enrichment and degradation of the lake's ecosystem.