CHARLEVOIX STP, Charlevoix Township

Overview

CHARLEVOIX STP serves Charlevoix Township, Michigan, treating wastewater for approximately 2,057 residents. The plant discharges into the Lake Michigan watershed, supporting local water quality.

CHARLEVOIX STP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Charlevoix Township, Michigan, United States. Serving a population of around 2,057, the plant is part of the region's infrastructure for managing domestic wastewater in this Great Lakes community. As a US facility, the plant operates under the Clean Water Act, with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits issued by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). For a plant of this scale, secondary treatment is typically required to meet effluent standards, ensuring protection of receiving waters. The plant's treated effluent ultimately reaches Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. This water body supports diverse aquatic life, including fish species such as lake trout and whitefish, and provides drinking water for millions. The plant's operations are critical to maintaining the ecological health of the Lake Michigan basin.

Environmental context

The plant discharges into the Lake Michigan watershed, part of the Great Lakes system. Lake Michigan is a vital freshwater resource supporting diverse aquatic ecosystems, including fish spawning grounds and migratory bird habitats. The plant's location within 50 km of the coast means its effluent can influence nearshore water quality, requiring careful management to prevent nutrient loading and algal blooms.

Frequently asked questions

CHARLEVOIX STP is located in Charlevoix Township, Charlevoix County, Michigan, United States, along Lake Shore Drive.

The plant serves approximately 2,057 residents in the Charlevoix Township area.

The plant discharges treated effluent into the Lake Michigan watershed, likely via a local watercourse or direct outfall, subject to NPDES permit conditions.

As a US facility, CHARLEVOIX STP operates under the Clean Water Act, with NPDES permits issued by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

For small communities of this size, secondary treatment is standard under the Clean Water Act, often using activated sludge or lagoon systems to meet effluent limits.