Challenge
The Kiski Valley Water Pollution Control Authority faced significant challenges with aging infrastructure, increasing wet-weather flows, and stricter environmental regulations. The existing wastewater treatment system was struggling to handle surges, risking untreated water discharge into the Kiski River. Operators were overburdened with 24/7 staffing requirements, and the system lacked the capacity and flexibility to meet future demands.
Solution
To address these challenges, Kiski Valley implemented a forward-looking upgrade centered on the Sanitaire ICEAS® sequencing batch reactor (SBR) system. This intelligent, automated treatment system was designed to handle surges from 7 to 31 million gallons per day, adapt to fluctuating conditions, and prepare for emerging regulations. The upgrade included:
- Four independent treatment basins for continuous inflow and increased throughput.
- Real-time controls for monitoring and automation.
- Built-in capacity for biological nutrient removal to meet future compliance needs.
Results
Since the upgrade in 2016, the Kiski Valley plant has achieved:
- Consistent performance: BOD and TSS removal rates exceeding 96%, even during high flow periods.
- Operational efficiency: Transition from 24/7 staffing to weekday-only operations, reducing labor strain and improving staff confidence.
- Environmental impact: Elimination of overflows and improved water quality in the Kiski River, supporting the return of aquatic life and recreational fishing.
- Future readiness: Capacity to meet stricter nutrient removal regulations without additional capital improvements.