Overview
West Bend WWTP serves approximately 30,636 people in West Bend, Wisconsin. The plant operates under US Clean Water Act regulations, managing municipal wastewater for the community.
West Bend WWTP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located on Municipal Drive in West Bend, Washington County, Wisconsin. It serves a population of around 30,636, placing it in the medium-sized agglomeration category for US inland plants. As a US facility, it operates under the Clean Water Act and is subject to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting, typically administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. For plants of this scale, secondary treatment is standard, with possible nutrient removal requirements depending on the receiving water body. The plant discharges treated effluent into a local waterway that ultimately drains into the Milwaukee River basin and then to Lake Michigan. This watershed supports diverse aquatic life and provides drinking water for downstream communities. The plant's operation is critical for protecting water quality in the region.
Environmental context
The plant's treated effluent flows into a tributary of the Milwaukee River, which drains into Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. Lake Michigan supports a complex ecosystem including native fish species and migratory birds. The watershed is ecologically sensitive, and nutrient loading from wastewater can contribute to algal blooms, making effective treatment essential for maintaining water quality.
Frequently asked questions
West Bend WWTP is located on Municipal Drive in West Bend, Washington County, Wisconsin, United States.
The plant serves approximately 30,636 people, classifying it as a medium-sized municipal wastewater treatment facility.
The plant discharges treated effluent into a local waterway that flows into the Milwaukee River basin, ultimately reaching Lake Michigan.
As a US facility, West Bend WWTP operates under the Clean Water Act and is regulated via an NPDES permit, typically issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
For medium-sized agglomerations in the US, secondary treatment is standard, often with additional nutrient removal to protect sensitive water bodies like Lake Michigan.
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