HDR To Lead National Study On Nutrient Removal

Water Environment Research Foundation Taps HDR-Led Team to Address Nutrient Removal Challenge

Omaha, NE — Regulations are dramatically reducing the levels of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus permitted in effluent discharges from treated wastewater. The Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF) has tapped an HDR-led team to study nutrient removal processes and technologies, with a focus on cost-effective removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater. HDR partnered with Metcalf & Eddy and the University of Washington on the original proposal for the study.

The research will provide data on nutrient removal so treatment facilities can select sustainable, cost-effective methods and technologies to meet permit limits. It also will provide information on nutrients (specifically nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater), their characteristics, and bioavailability in aquatic environments to help regulators make informed decisions. Anticipated outcomes include developing and sharing credible scientific information on nutrients and fostering a better understanding of the best available technologies, or developing new technologies so that plants can become more efficient and effective. The project includes developing a conceptual framework for a Web-based information/technology transfer center to provide accurate and up-to-date information to wastewater utilities, regulators, and other stakeholders.

The project will start in early 2007 and is anticipated to continue for four years.

Principal investigator for the research project is JB Neethling, national technical director of wastewater treatment and disposal with HDR. Co-principal investigators are Mark Laquidara, vice president and wastewater technology director with Metcalf & Eddy and Dave Stensel, professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Washington in Seattle.

SOURCE: HDR