WLSSD Wastewater Treatment Facility Earns State Award for Outstanding Clean Water Performance

WLSSD Wastewater Treatment Facility
Earns State Award for Outstanding Clean Water Performance

DULUTH, MN. – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has recognized Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD) and its wastewater treatment staff for outstanding compliance with its permit that ensures that the quality of the water WLSSD discharges to the St. Louis River is protective of water quality and human health. WLSSD’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, issued in accordance with the U. S. Clean Water Act, specifies the quality of the water and also various other activities required to help protect and preserve the waters of Minnesota.

“Employees throughout our organization work hard to ensure we are protecting water quality,” said Marianne Bohren, WLSSD executive Director. “It takes attention, dedication and continuous effort to ensure we’re operating at the highest levels, and to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of our many facilities over 530 square miles. This award is a testament to our employees’ commitment to excellence and the commitment of our board of directors to ensure that we have the resources we need to successfully ensure clean water in the St. Louis River and Lake Superior.”

MPCA awarded WLSSD its Certificate of Commendation for exemplary effort in 2019 to comply with the agency’s NPDES/SDS wastewater permit program. To be eligible for this recognition, facilities were required to submit all reports to the MPCA correctly and on time, demonstrate consistent compliance through monitoring, operations and maintenance, and employ staff certified by the MPCA in wastewater operations. MPCA issues this award annually to those facilities that meet these high standards.

Western Lake Superior Sanitary District provides award-winning wastewater and solid waste services to residents, businesses and industries in 17 communities within its 530 square mile service area in Southern St. Louis and northern Carlton counties, and is a nationally recognized leader in pollution prevention.

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