Three Rivers WWTP, Three Rivers

Overview

Three Rivers WWTP serves approximately 8,567 people in Three Rivers, Michigan. The plant operates under the U.S. Clean Water Act and NPDES permitting framework.

Three Rivers WWTP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Three Rivers, Michigan, serving a population of about 8,567 residents. The plant is situated in Saint Joseph County and plays a key role in managing wastewater for the local community. As a U.S. facility, the plant operates under the Clean Water Act and is subject to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits issued by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). For a plant serving this population size, secondary treatment is typically required, with potential additional nutrient removal standards depending on the receiving water body. The plant's treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the St. Joseph River and then into Lake Michigan. This connection to the Great Lakes system underscores the importance of effective treatment to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems.

Environmental context

The plant discharges into the St. Joseph River watershed, which flows into Lake Michigan, part of the Great Lakes system. The Great Lakes are a critical freshwater resource supporting diverse aquatic life, including fish species such as lake trout and whitefish. Protecting water quality in this basin is essential for maintaining ecosystem health and recreational uses.

Frequently asked questions

Three Rivers WWTP is located in Three Rivers, Saint Joseph County, Michigan, United States.

The plant serves approximately 8,567 residents in the Three Rivers area.

The plant discharges treated effluent into the local watershed, which flows into the St. Joseph River and ultimately into Lake Michigan.

As a U.S. facility, it operates under the Clean Water Act and is regulated by an NPDES permit issued by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

For a plant of this size, secondary treatment is standard under the Clean Water Act. Depending on the receiving water body, additional nutrient removal may be required to protect the Great Lakes.