FOREST HILLS SOUTH FORK STP, South Fork

Overview

FOREST HILLS SOUTH FORK STP serves approximately 7,739 residents in South Fork, Pennsylvania. The plant is part of the municipal wastewater infrastructure in Cambria County.

FOREST HILLS SOUTH FORK STP is a wastewater treatment plant located in South Fork, Pennsylvania, serving a population of about 7,739. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Clean Water Act, which requires National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for discharges into surface waters. As a facility serving a small community, it is subject to state-level oversight by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. However, for a community of this size, typical treatment includes secondary treatment to meet federal and state effluent standards. The plant's design and operation align with the requirements for small to medium agglomerations under U.S. regulations. The treated effluent from the plant is discharged into a local waterway that eventually drains into the Ohio River basin. This watershed supports diverse aquatic life and provides drinking water for downstream communities. The plant plays a key role in protecting water quality in the region by reducing pollutant loads before discharge.

Environmental context

The plant discharges into a tributary of the Conemaugh River, which flows into the Kiskiminetas River and then the Allegheny River, part of the Ohio River basin. This watershed supports a variety of fish species and is used for recreation and drinking water. The plant's operations help maintain water quality in this ecologically sensitive area.

Frequently asked questions

The plant is located at 147 Cross Street, South Fork, Cambria County, Pennsylvania, 15956, United States.

The plant serves approximately 7,739 residents in the South Fork area.

The plant discharges treated effluent into a local waterway that flows into the Conemaugh River, part of the Ohio River basin.

The plant operates under the U.S. Clean Water Act and is subject to NPDES permit requirements enforced by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

For small communities of this size, secondary treatment is standard to meet federal effluent guidelines, often using activated sludge or lagoon systems.