Small Community-Sized Wastewater Treatment Technologies Evaluation

Town of Yarmouth/Barnstable County Wastewater Implementation Committee
June 2005

Report prepared by Tighe and Bond, Inc.

This report profiles wastewater treatment processes appropriate for flows in the range of 10,000 to 100,000. These community-sized treatment systems have been identified as a viable alternative for addressing wastewater treatment needs on the Cape. This document provides useful background for local authorities when considering or reviewing treatment options and is intended to complement past and future wastewater treatment studies considering Cape Cod's unique environment. The report includes descriptions and analysis of various wastewater treatment technologies based on information provided by vendors and manufacturers, facility operators, and MADEP compliance data. The original intent of the study focused on the ability of technologies to meet an effluent limit of 5 mg.L total nitrogen. Based on our research, most community-sized wastewater treatment facilities with a groundwater disposal in Massachusetts have permit requirements of 10 mg/L total nitrogen, a concentration based on drinking water quality standards. The data collected indicates that technologies exist that can meet lower nitrogen levels (<5 mg/L) when designed, operated and maintained correctly.

Report Summary

The report provides a compendium of information including:

Short history on water quality studies and relevant regulations and policies
Description of the basic science behind wastewater treatment and the nitrogen removal process
Description of treatment technologies
Key design and operational elements for new treatment facilities
Summary of compliance data and rating of technologies

To download the report go to :
http://projects.tighebond.com/smallcommunity/index.aspx