An unknown pollutant has impacted wastewater treatment operations at the Silver Creek Water Reclamation Facility, according to a notice from the Snyderville Basin Water Reclamation District. The District reported that the pollutant is decreasing the normal population level of nitrifying bacteria within the wastewater treatment process.
Nitrifying bacteria perform a critical role in reducing nitrogen levels during the wastewater treatment process, which is an important factor in protecting local streams. The District is currently collecting and analyzing wastewater samples throughout the Park City area to determine a source for the pollutant, though no definitive source has been identified.
In response to the impact, the District is hauling thousands of gallons of nitrifying bacteria from its East Canyon Water Reclamation Facility and from a treatment facility along the Wasatch Front. These efforts aim to re-establish normal bacteria levels at the impaired facility, though the District anticipates it could take weeks for the facility to return to normal operating levels.
The District expects it will likely exceed the levels of nitrogen allowed under its discharge permit and is working with the Division of Water Quality to resolve any issues. While increased nitrogen can result in algae blooms and increased plant growth—which can decrease oxygen levels in streams and harm aquatic species—the District does not anticipate the pollutant will result in any risk to the public. In severe cases, algae blooms can be toxic to humans, dogs, and other animals, but the District cited colder weather and the amount of nitrogen being released as factors that mitigate public risk.
The District is asking the public for any information regarding unusual chemical discharges, spills, or the disposal of industrial products into the sewer system. Anyone with information that may help in the investigation is asked to contact General Manager Michael Luers.
