Rincon Village of Wastewater Treatment Plant, Valencia County, New Mexico

Rincon Village of wastewater treatment plant is located in Valencia County, New Mexico, United States. The facility serves a small population of 271 residents, reflecting its role in a rural or semi-rural community. The plant is situated inland, away from coastal areas, and operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Clean Water Act. The plant provides secondary treatment, which is the standard level required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for municipal wastewater facilities. Secondary treatment typically involves biological processes to remove organic matter and suspended solids. The plant has a designed capacity of 124.92 volume units, matching the reported discharge volume, indicating full utilization of its capacity. The treated effluent is discharged into local water bodies that eventually drain into the Rio Grande basin. The Rio Grande is a major river system in the southwestern United States, supporting diverse aquatic life and providing water for agriculture and communities. The plant's operations are subject to EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, ensuring compliance with water quality standards.

The plant discharges into local streams that are part of the Rio Grande watershed. The Rio Grande flows through New Mexico and Texas before reaching the Gulf of Mexico. This river system supports a variety of fish species and provides critical habitat for migratory birds. The region's arid climate makes water quality management particularly important for maintaining ecological balance and supporting downstream water users.