Annual wastewater report flags plant capacity as influent flows exceed design

Public works staff presented the annual wastewater treatment plant report and a DNR-required resolution to the Reedsburg Common Council, saying the plant met permit limits for most pollutant measures but that influent flow and loading exceed the plant's rated capacity.

"We get a grade F for that because there's more coming into the plant than the plant is rated to handle," said Steve, a city staff member who presented the report, explaining that growth and increased flows from nearby dairy operations are contributing to the higher influent. Steve said common permit parameters such as biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS), ammonia and phosphorus received A grades because the plant did not exceed limits during the reporting year.

Steve summarized an overall score of 3.68 for the plant and noted staff are addressing capacity issues; he said the DNR requires the council to adopt a resolution acknowledging the annual report. Councilmember Peterson praised plant staff for certifications and operations, and the council approved the resolution by voice vote.

The presentation noted the city retains responsibilities for collection-system maintenance and staffing and that increased flows are being managed while longer-term capacity solutions are evaluated. The council did not adopt a specific capital project at the meeting but acknowledged the report and commended staff for daily permit compliance despite capacity pressure.

Next steps: Staff will continue monitoring influent flows, report on any required capital improvements or permit actions, and return to council with proposed responses if upgrades are needed.