Overview
Arapahoe County WWA in Centennial, Colorado serves approximately 28,300 people. The plant operates under the US Clean Water Act, managing wastewater for a suburban Denver community.
Arapahoe County Water and Wastewater Authority (WWA) is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Centennial, Colorado, within Arapahoe County. The plant serves a population of about 28,300 residents, supporting a suburban area southeast of Denver. As part of the regional water infrastructure, it plays a key role in managing wastewater from residential and commercial sources. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Water Act, which requires National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for all discharges. For a facility of this scale, typical treatment includes secondary biological processes to meet effluent standards. The plant's capacity and specific treatment processes are managed to comply with state and federal regulations, ensuring protection of local water quality. The treated effluent is discharged into local waterways that ultimately drain into the South Platte River basin. This river system flows north through Colorado and into Nebraska, supporting agricultural, recreational, and ecological uses. The plant's operations help maintain water quality in the South Platte watershed, which is vital for downstream communities and ecosystems.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the South Platte River watershed, which flows from the Rocky Mountains across the Colorado plains. The South Platte River provides water for irrigation, drinking water, and habitat for fish and wildlife. Downstream, the river joins the Platte River in Nebraska, eventually reaching the Missouri River. The watershed supports diverse aquatic life and is an important migratory corridor for birds. Protecting water quality in this basin is critical for both human and ecological health.
Frequently asked questions
Arapahoe County Water and Wastewater Authority is located at 13031 East Caley Avenue in Centennial, Colorado, United States.
The plant serves approximately 28,300 residents in the Centennial area and surrounding parts of Arapahoe County.
The treated effluent is discharged into local waterways that are part of the South Platte River basin, eventually flowing into the Platte River and Missouri River.
The plant operates under the US Clean Water Act, requiring an NPDES permit issued by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This permit sets effluent limits to protect water quality.
Plants of this scale typically use secondary treatment, such as activated sludge or trickling filters, to remove organic matter and solids. Disinfection is often required before discharge to protect recreational and aquatic uses.
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