All News Releases By Date

South Kingstown, R.I. Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant Recognized For Excellence

Release Date: 09/18/2003
Contact Information: David Deegan, EPA-New England Public Affairs office, 617-918-1017 Bernard Bishop, South Kingstown, R.I. Superintendent, 401-788-9772

BOSTON – The South Kingstown, R.I. regional municipal wastewater treatment facility was recently selected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a national Operations and Maintenance Excellence Award. The staff of the South Kingstown Wastewater Treatment Facility was recognized for its outstanding work. This plant was among five facilities in New England and 17 nationwide recognized for exemplary performance.

"The professionals operating these wastewater treatment plants play a crucial role ensuring that our lakes and rivers are protected from unnecessary pollution," said Robert W. Varney, regional administrator for EPA's New England Office. "The individuals who run these plants, and the municipalities that support them, are key to keeping our environment healthy. I am proud to give them the credit they deserve."

The South Kingstown plant, which has served as a model for other treatment plants in Rhode Island, won second place in the category for medium sized secondary treatment plants. The South Kingstown facility has put in place a highly successful town-wide, on-site wastewater management ordinance plan to protect groundwater resources and public health. The facility and town established a financial management program that has resulted in more than $1 million in the reserve for future wastewater infrastructure improvements. The facility has also implemented energy savings initiatives throughout its collection system.

The annual EPA National Operations & Maintenance Excellence Awards were established to recognize the staff of publicly owned wastewater treatment plants for their commitment to improving water quality through not only outstanding and innovative operation and maintenance, but also continued compliance with permit requirements, effective financial management, and on-going operator training. National award winners will be formally acknowledged at this year's Water Environment Federation meeting in Los Angeles in October.