Overview
Richland STP serves approximately 49,090 residents in Richland, Washington. The plant operates under the U.S. Clean Water Act, which mandates secondary treatment for municipal wastewater facilities.
Richland STP is a municipal wastewater treatment plant located in Richland, Washington, serving a population of about 49,090. The plant is situated in Benton County, near the Columbia River, and is part of the region's critical water infrastructure. As a U.S. facility, Richland STP operates under the Clean Water Act's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program. For a plant serving a population of this scale, secondary treatment is typically required to meet effluent limits for biochemical oxygen demand and total suspended solids. The plant's design and operation are overseen by the Washington State Department of Ecology. The treated effluent from Richland STP is discharged into the Columbia River, which flows through the Pacific Northwest and eventually reaches the Pacific Ocean. The Columbia River supports diverse aquatic life, including salmon runs, and is a vital resource for irrigation, recreation, and hydroelectric power. The plant's performance is crucial for maintaining water quality in this major river system.
Environmental context
Richland STP discharges into the Columbia River, the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, which flows into the Pacific Ocean. The river supports critical salmon and steelhead habitats, and its water quality is essential for regional ecosystems and human use. The plant's location in an arid region makes its effluent management particularly important for downstream water availability and ecological health.
Frequently asked questions
Richland STP is located at 555 Lacy Road in Richland, Washington, United States. It serves the city of Richland and surrounding areas in Benton County.
Richland STP serves approximately 49,090 people, classifying it as a medium-sized municipal wastewater treatment facility.
The treated effluent from Richland STP is discharged into the Columbia River, which flows through Washington and Oregon to the Pacific Ocean.
Richland STP operates under the U.S. Clean Water Act, requiring an NPDES permit issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology. For a plant serving ~49,000 people, secondary treatment is typically mandated to meet federal effluent standards.
For U.S. plants serving around 50,000 people, secondary treatment is standard, involving biological processes to reduce organic matter and suspended solids. Some facilities may also include nutrient removal if required by local water quality standards.
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