OWNER: Town of Dubois, WY
DATE: 2001
SERVICES PROVIDED:
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Wastewater Treatment Evaluation
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Performance Prediction Modeling
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Developed Alternative Treatment Improvements
In 2000, the Town of Dubois initiated an evaluation of alternative wastewater treatment approaches for their community. This action was prompted because the performance of the town’s wastewater treatment lagoon system had been variable for several years with frequent effluent violations for BOD and TSS.
Our firm conducted an inventory and evaluation of the lagoon system. In evaluating the system, we analyzed several years of discharge testing reports and conferred with several state entities that had evaluated the system in the past. We also conducted an on-site measurement of the sludge accumulation, reviewed the aeration system, and evaluated the operation of the system.
Based on the data and information received from the evaluation, we conducted a performance prediction modeling of the system’s treatment capacity. It was concluded that given the condition of the system, it was performing as well as could be expected. Because of the deteriorated condition of the aeration baffle system, an inadequate mixing of the first cell had occurred. This condition, combined with the accumulated sludge that was reducing the effective detention time, had diminished the treatment performance of the system.
James Gores and Associates analyzed new technologies and modern methods that are being developed in revolutionizing wastewater lagoon design techniques such as Advanced Integrated Pond Systems (AIPS), lagoon splitting, and constructed wetlands.
Several alternative treatment options were delivered to the Town of Dubois for consideration. After several meetings, a citizens committee made their recommendation to the Dubois Town Council. The council adopted the preferred alternative that would upgrade the existing system with sludge removal and a new aeration system in addition to constructing a percolation pond.
James Gores and Associates was directed to proceed with completing the draft plan for review by the citizens of the town.