Wastewater Treatment Technology to Assist in Nutrient Removal

The City of Frederick, Maryland, is a contributor to the Chesapeake Bay watershed, the water quality of which is being damaged due to excess nutrients entering the system. These nutrients fuel the growth of algae blooms, which in large quantities can block sunlight to underwater grasses and remove oxygen from the water preventing the bay from acting as a healthy ecosystem.

Marc Stachowski, Deputy Director of Public Works for the City of Frederick said, “The Chesapeake Bay area is a unique ecosystem that needs to be protected. It is our goal to comply with the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Enhanced Nutrient Removal program and, as part of this process, the city is converting a key element of its water treatment process from chemical (chlorine) to ultraviolet (UV) disinfection. Xylem is supporting this project by developing innovative and sustainable ways to reduce the levels of nitrate nitrogen and total phosphorus in the water before it is discharged into the Chesapeake Bay.”

Greg Claffey, Xylem’s Director of Treatment Sales for North America, said, “We are pleased that our technology and expertise will support the long-term sustainability of this important waterway. By switching from chlorine to UV disinfection, the City of Frederick will reduce the disinfection by-products going back into receiving streams. Furthermore, the removal of chlorine makes the site and the surrounding community a safer place to live and work.”

Xylem will also provide training and service support to the facility’s operators as the plant shifts from chlorine to UV disinfection to ensure a smooth and efficient transition.

Construction is scheduled to take place later this year with the plant scheduled to be in operation in mid-2017.