DeKalb Sanitary District, DeKalb

Overview

DeKalb Sanitary District serves approximately 55,286 people in DeKalb, Illinois. The plant operates under the US Clean Water Act, with NPDES permits regulating its discharge to protect local waterways.

The DeKalb Sanitary District is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in DeKalb, Illinois, serving a population of around 55,286. As a medium-sized agglomeration, it plays a key role in managing wastewater for the city and surrounding DeKalb County. Under the US Clean Water Act, the plant is required to meet National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit standards. For facilities of this scale, secondary treatment is typically mandated to reduce organic pollutants and suspended solids before discharge. The plant's treatment processes are designed to comply with state and federal regulations. The treated effluent is discharged into the Kishwaukee River, a tributary of the Rock River, which flows into the Mississippi River and ultimately the Gulf of Mexico. This watershed supports diverse aquatic life and provides recreational and ecological value to the region.

Environmental context

The plant discharges into the Kishwaukee River, which flows into the Rock River, then the Mississippi River, and finally the Gulf of Mexico. This watershed supports diverse aquatic species and is an important corridor for migratory birds. The plant's discharge must meet water quality standards to protect downstream ecosystems and drinking water sources.

Frequently asked questions

The DeKalb Sanitary District is located in DeKalb, Illinois, United States, with an address on Joanne Lane in DeKalb Township, DeKalb County.

The plant serves approximately 55,286 people, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under US EPA guidelines.

The treated effluent is discharged into the Kishwaukee River, a tributary of the Rock River, which flows into the Mississippi River and eventually the Gulf of Mexico.

The plant operates under the US Clean Water Act and is required to have an NPDES permit issued by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, ensuring compliance with discharge limits.

For medium-sized agglomerations in the US, secondary treatment is typically required, which removes at least 85% of organic matter and suspended solids before discharge.