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EPA Recognizes Alexandria Sanitation Authority For ‘Extraordinary Actions’ to Protect Watershed

Release Date: 4/1/2003
Contact Information: Roy Seneca, (215) 814-5567

Roy Seneca, (215) 814-5567

PHILADELPHIA - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency presented the Alexandria Sanitation Authority with a Clean Water Partners award for taking “extraordinary actions” to protect watersheds.

“The progress made by Alexandria Sanitation Authority to upgrade its sewage treatment facilities goes above and beyond the requirements of the Clean Water Act. Its efforts exemplify the positive impact local governments play in protecting our nation’s waters,” said Donald S. Welsh, regional administrator for EPA’s mid-Atlantic region.

The Alexandria Sanitation Authority was among 79 organizations and municipalities selected nationwide as Clean Water Partners. The program is part of EPA’s celebration of the Year of Clean Water. EPA Administrator Christie Whitman and Assistant Administrator G. Tracy Mehan III presented the award during ceremonies today.

The Alexandria Sanitation Authority is in the midst of improving efficiency and environmental effectiveness through activities that include development of a biosolids environmental management system program; development of a comprehensive asset management program; construction of new biological nutrient removal basins; construction of an innovative solids handling and odor control building; and the use of potable water treatment technology to increase efficiency in the treatment system.

Applications for the awards were announced in the Federal Register in April 2002. Each applicant had to complete a compliance screening and was reviewed by a panel including EPA, the Water Environment Federation, Association of Metropolitan Sewerage Agencies (AMSA) and National League of Cities.