Overview
HEBER WWTF serves Heber, California, treating wastewater for approximately 3,500 residents. The plant has a designed capacity of 1.00 million gallons per day.
HEBER WWTF is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Heber, California, a small community in Imperial County near the U.S.-Mexico border. The plant serves a population of about 3,500 people, reflecting its role in managing local wastewater for a modest-sized agglomeration. As a U.S. facility, HEBER WWTF operates under the Clean Water Act, which requires National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for discharges to surface waters. The plant's designed capacity of 1.00 million gallons per day suggests it is sized to handle current and near-term flows. The plant's treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains to the Salton Sea via the Alamo River or New River. The Salton Sea is a critical but ecologically stressed terminal lake, supporting migratory birds and aquatic life. Protecting downstream water quality is essential for the health of this sensitive ecosystem.
Environmental context
HEBER WWTF discharges into the Imperial Valley drainage network, which flows into the Alamo River and New River, both tributaries of the Salton Sea. The Salton Sea is a large, saline terminal lake that serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. However, the sea faces challenges from agricultural runoff and reduced inflows, making nutrient and pollutant management from wastewater plants crucial for maintaining water quality and habitat.
Frequently asked questions
HEBER WWTF is located on Rockwood Road in Heber, Imperial County, California, United States.
HEBER WWTF serves approximately 3,500 residents in the community of Heber, California.
Treated wastewater from HEBER WWTF is discharged into the local drainage network, which flows to the Alamo River or New River and ultimately reaches the Salton Sea.
As a U.S. facility, HEBER WWTF operates under the Clean Water Act and must comply with an NPDES permit issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board or a regional board.
For small communities like Heber, secondary treatment is typically required under the Clean Water Act, often using activated sludge or lagoon systems to meet effluent standards.
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