Overview
Harvard STP serves approximately 9,000 residents in Harvard, Illinois. The plant operates under the US Clean Water Act framework, treating municipal wastewater before discharge.
Harvard STP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Harvard, Illinois, serving a population of around 9,000. The plant is situated in McHenry County, part of the Chicago metropolitan area's outer suburbs. As a publicly owned treatment works (POTW), it plays a key role in managing local wastewater. Under the US Clean Water Act, plants of this scale typically require secondary treatment as a minimum standard, with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits issued by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. These permits set effluent limits to protect water quality. The plant's treated effluent is discharged to a local waterway, likely a tributary of the Kishwaukee River or the Rock River system, which ultimately flows into the Mississippi River. This watershed supports diverse aquatic life and provides recreational opportunities. Proper treatment helps maintain water quality in this ecologically important basin.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into a local stream that is part of the Rock River watershed, which drains into the Mississippi River. This region supports a variety of fish and wildlife, including species of concern such as the rusty patched bumble bee. The watershed is also used for recreation and agriculture, making effective wastewater treatment essential for protecting downstream ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
Harvard STP is located at 799 West Brink Street, Harvard, Illinois, in McHenry County, United States.
Harvard STP serves approximately 9,000 residents in the city of Harvard and surrounding areas.
The plant discharges treated effluent into a local waterway, likely a tributary of the Kishwaukee River or Rock River system, which ultimately flows into the Mississippi River.
As a publicly owned treatment works, Harvard STP operates under the Clean Water Act and is required to have an NPDES permit issued by the Illinois EPA, setting limits on pollutants to protect water quality.
Plants of this scale typically provide secondary treatment as a minimum, which includes biological processes to remove organic matter and suspended solids, meeting federal standards under the Clean Water Act.
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