The Seaford Wastewater Facility is a biological nutrient removal (BNR) designed to treat 2.0 MGD (million gallons per day) of wastewater. Organic and nitrogen compounds in the incoming wastewater are stabilized by a concentrated population of micro-organisms maintained within the facility. Additionally, phosphorus is removed from the wastewater through the means of coagulation and precipitation of phosphorus compounds. Following the BNR process, the treated water is then filtered, disinfected and de-chlorinated prior to being discharged from the facility. This process results in a plant effluent that is of exceptional quality.
Typical removal efficiency for various wastewater constituents:
- BOD (organic compounds) = 99.3%
- Total Suspended Solids = 99.3%
- Total Nitrogen = 89%
- Total Phosphorus = 90-95%
The solids generated during wastewater treatment are sent to the facility's composting operation. Here, the biosolids are dewatered on a belt filter press, mixed with woodchips, and composted in aerated composting bays. Once composted, the woodchips are removed from the material using a mechanical screen. The composting process stabilizes the organic compounds and destroys any pathogenic organisms. The result is a rich "Class A, exceptional quality" end product, by EPA standards. Compost is beneficial to improving poor soils for better nutrient and water retention, and may be used on lawns, gardens and flower beds. Seaford Compost is available to the public year round, and is located just opposite the boat ramp in Seaford.
Compost Distribution Days: Wednesday and Friday
Department Responsibilities:
Seaford's wastewater facility is staffed by six licensed operators. Each team member is highly skilled, and able to work in all divisions of the wastewater facility if needed. The areas of direct responsibility within the facility are:
- Operations Coordinator
- Pre-treatment Coordinator
- Laboratory Operator
- Maintenance Operator
- Operations Facilitator
- Compost Facility Operator