Overview
Blaine STP serves approximately 4,705 residents in Blaine, Washington. Located near Semiahmoo Spit, the plant discharges into the Salish Sea via local waterways.
Blaine STP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility serving the city of Blaine, Washington, a coastal community near the Canadian border. The plant treats wastewater from a population of about 4,705, reflecting a small to medium-sized agglomeration typical of this region. As a U.S. facility, Blaine STP operates under the Clean Water Act, with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology. For plants of this scale, secondary treatment is standard, and permits set limits on effluent quality to protect receiving waters. The plant's treated effluent ultimately reaches the Salish Sea, a critical marine ecosystem supporting salmon, orcas, and diverse aquatic life. The Semiahmoo Spit area is ecologically sensitive, with tidal flats and eelgrass beds that benefit from effective nutrient and pathogen removal.
Environmental context
Blaine STP discharges into the Salish Sea via local drainage, including Semiahmoo Bay and Boundary Bay. This marine environment supports critical habitats for Pacific salmon, herring, and migratory birds. The area is part of the larger Puget Sound/Georgia Basin ecosystem, which faces challenges from nutrient loading and toxic contaminants. Effective treatment helps protect water quality and marine biodiversity.
Frequently asked questions
Blaine STP is located near Semiahmoo Spit in Blaine, Washington, United States, close to the Canadian border.
Blaine STP serves approximately 4,705 residents in the city of Blaine and surrounding areas.
Blaine STP discharges treated wastewater into local waterways that flow into the Salish Sea, specifically via Semiahmoo Bay and Boundary Bay.
Blaine STP operates under the U.S. Clean Water Act, with NPDES permits issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology, which set effluent limits to protect water quality.
For small to medium agglomerations like Blaine, secondary treatment is standard, involving biological processes to reduce organic matter and suspended solids, with disinfection often required for coastal discharges.
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