OKC North Canadian WWT, Oklahoma City

Overview

OKC North Canadian WWT serves Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with a population of approximately 394,724. The plant discharges into the North Canadian River, part of the Arkansas River basin.

OKC North Canadian WWT is a major wastewater treatment facility located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, serving a population of roughly 394,724. As a large municipal plant, it plays a critical role in managing the city's wastewater within the Central Business District and surrounding areas. The plant operates under the U. S. Clean Water Act, which requires NPDES permits for discharges into surface waters. For a facility of this scale, secondary treatment is the minimum standard, with potential additional nutrient removal to protect downstream water quality. The plant's capacity and treatment processes are designed to meet state and federal regulations. Treated effluent is discharged into the North Canadian River, which flows into the Arkansas River and ultimately the Mississippi River system. This water body supports diverse aquatic life and is used for recreation and irrigation downstream. The plant's operations are essential for maintaining water quality in this ecologically significant watershed.

Environmental context

The plant discharges into the North Canadian River, a tributary of the Canadian River within the Arkansas River basin. This river system flows through Oklahoma and Arkansas, eventually reaching the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico. The watershed supports diverse aquatic habitats and is important for regional biodiversity, including migratory fish and bird species. Effective wastewater treatment is crucial to prevent nutrient pollution and protect downstream ecosystems.

Frequently asked questions

The plant is located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, near the Central Business District along West Main Street.

The plant serves approximately 394,724 people, making it a large municipal wastewater treatment facility.

Treated effluent is discharged into the North Canadian River, which flows into the Arkansas River and eventually the Mississippi River system.

The plant operates under the U. S. Clean Water Act, requiring an NPDES permit issued by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality or the EPA.

Plants of this scale typically provide secondary treatment as a minimum, with advanced treatment for nutrient removal if the receiving water body is sensitive.