Overview
Ritzville STP is a municipal wastewater treatment plant serving approximately 1,705 residents in Ritzville, Washington, USA. It operates under the US Clean Water Act framework.
Ritzville STP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Ritzville, Adams County, Washington. The plant serves a small community of about 1,705 people, reflecting the rural character of the region. As a publicly owned treatment works, it plays a key role in managing local wastewater and protecting public health. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Water Act, which requires National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for all point source discharges. For a facility of this scale, typical treatment includes secondary treatment 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 is discharged to a local water body, contributing to the protection of the Columbia River basin. The plant's location in the semi-arid region of eastern Washington means water resources are particularly valuable, and proper treatment helps maintain water quality for downstream uses including irrigation and wildlife habitat.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into a local watercourse that ultimately drains to the Columbia River basin. The Columbia River is a major Pacific Northwest waterway supporting salmon runs and diverse aquatic ecosystems. The semi-arid climate of eastern Washington makes water quality management critical for maintaining ecological balance and agricultural water supplies.
Frequently asked questions
Ritzville STP is located at 1135 North Hickory Avenue in Ritzville, Adams County, Washington, USA.
The plant serves approximately 1,705 residents in the city of Ritzville and surrounding areas.
The treated effluent is discharged to a local water body that flows into the Columbia River basin, supporting regional water quality.
The plant operates under the US Clean Water Act, requiring an NPDES permit issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology to ensure compliance with effluent limits.
For small communities of this size, secondary treatment is standard, using biological processes to reduce organic matter and solids before discharge.
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