Each year, the United States Environmental Protection Agency recognizes publicly-owned wastewater treatment facilities for outstanding and innovative water quality achievements through operations and maintenance (O&M), biosolids management, pretreatment activities, storm water management, and combined sewer overflow controls. These national awards are for facilities found in all of the United States and its territories, and this year, one of Michigan's wastewater treatment plants has been awarded this national recognition.

The Grandville Wastewater Treatment Plant received the O&M Excellence Award, Second Place in the Medium Advanced category. The Grandville WWTP serves approximately 70,000 people in Kent and Ottawa Counties. The plant discharges final effluent to the Grand River, which directly flows to Lake Michigan. Grandville's utilization of cutting edge technology has reduced operating costs, their collaborative work with the local dental community and the American Dental Association has lead to the development and implementation of an effective mercury minimization plan, and their overall excellent O&M of the facility allows them to consistently discharge their effluent well below permit limits.

"It is an honor to have the U.S. EPA recognize one of Michigan's facilities for their innovative, efficient, effective work at protecting the environment," said Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester. "We are pleased to work collaboratively with the local community and the facility staff to help this WWTP implement a well maintained and operated treatment system."

This award illustrates how effective partnerships between the DEQ and local agencies better serve the people of Michigan, and demonstrates a commitment to being a national leader in protecting our precious water resources.