Meridian gets permit to use wastewater

BY JOE ESTRELLA - jestrella@idahostatesman.com

Published: 12/04/08


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Meridian has become the first city in the state to be issued an Idaho Department of Environmental Quality permit allowing it to do more than just dump its treated wastewater.

The IDEQ Class A Reclaimed Water Permit issued Monday means that the city will be able to preserve groundwater for drinking purposes, while using its treated wastewater on city parks, golf courses and open spaces, said Meridian Public Works Director Tom Barry.

In the past, water from the city's wastewater treatment plant northwest of the intersection of Ustick and 10 Mile roads would be dumped into Five Mile Creek, which drains into the Boise River.

"Essentially, we're taking this highly-treated wastewater that we didn't have any use for and making use for it under IDEQ regulations, and reducing the burden on our drinking water and irrigation water," Barry said.

Initially, the treated wastewater will be applied to about 24 acres at Heroes Park on the east side of Ten Mile Road, north of the Malta Drive intersection. The reclaimed water's nutrient value also will allow the city to cut down on fertilizer applications in the park.

"This is an accomplishment for the city that has the potential to have long-term benefits for the citizens of Meridian and the users of the Boise River," said Mayor Tammy de Weerd.

Barry said the treated water can potentially be used for fire fighting, toilet flushing in commercial buildings, dust control, and industrial processing.

Mark Mason, engineering manager for the IDEQ regional office, said using reclaimed wastewater also will allow Meridian to use canal water for agricultural irrigation.

While the use of reclaimed water is relatively new to Idaho, it has been used for years in arid states such as Nevada, Arizona and California.

Joe Estrella: 377-6465

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