Overview
Burlington WWTP serves the city of Burlington, Iowa, treating wastewater for approximately 27,000 residents. The plant discharges into the Mississippi River basin, supporting local water quality.
The Burlington Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is a municipal facility located in Burlington, Iowa, serving a population of about 27,208. Situated along the Mississippi River, the plant plays a key role in managing wastewater for this community in southeastern Iowa. As a publicly owned treatment works, it is part of the region's essential water infrastructure. The plant operates under the U.S. Clean Water Act, which requires secondary treatment for municipal wastewater plants. For a facility serving a population of this size, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program sets effluent limits to protect receiving waters. The plant's design and operation are subject to state and federal regulations. The plant's treated effluent ultimately reaches the Mississippi River, a major waterway that drains into the Gulf of Mexico. This river system supports diverse aquatic life and is an important migratory corridor for birds and fish. The plant's discharge contributes to the overall water quality of the Mississippi River basin, which is ecologically significant for the region.
Environmental context
The Burlington WWTP discharges into the Mississippi River, which flows south to the Gulf of Mexico. The river supports a wide range of aquatic species and is a critical habitat for migratory fish such as paddlefish and sturgeon. The plant's operations help maintain water quality in this major river system, which is vital for downstream ecosystems and communities.
Frequently asked questions
The Burlington WWTP is located on Polk Street in Burlington, Des Moines County, Iowa, United States.
The plant serves approximately 27,208 residents in the city of Burlington, Iowa.
The plant discharges into the Mississippi River, which flows into the Gulf of Mexico.
As a municipal wastewater treatment plant, it operates under the Clean Water Act, which requires secondary treatment and NPDES permits to regulate discharges and protect water quality.
Plants of this size typically provide secondary treatment, which includes biological processes to remove organic matter and suspended solids, meeting EPA standards under the Clean Water Act.
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