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Department of Public Works Receives National Biosolids Certification
 4/15/2009Department of Public Works Receives National Biosolids Certification First in the State to Receive Certification Chattanooga, Tennessee - Is it possible in this difficult economic climate to provide high quality service despite the numerous challenges? The City of Chattanooga Department of Public Works proves the answer is yes, having been named the first agency in Tennessee to receive national recognition for its biosolids program. The National Biosolids Partnership (NBP) has recognized the City of Chattanooga as only the 23rd wastewater agency in the nation to be certified and admitted to the Partnership's environmental management system (EMS) for biosolids program. The achievement is the culmination of extensive efforts by the City to meet and exceed the Partnership’s rigorous certification program designed to demonstrate an agency’s commitment to environmental stewardship and exceptional operations. “We are proud to serve the citizens of Chattanooga with a biosolids management program that protects the environment for our children and grandchildren,” said Jerry Stewart, Director Waste Resources Division. “Our employees, led by Plant Superintendent Alice Cannella, have put in countless hours to earn this distinction for our community, and we are proud to be the first in Tennessee.” Biosolids are the nutrient-rich organic materials resulting from the treatment of domestic waste at a wastewater treatment facility. Through biosolids management, solid residue from wastewater treatment is processed to reduce or eliminate pathogens and minimize odors, forming a safe, beneficial agricultural product. In honor of the City’s achievement, Rebecca West, President of the Water Environment Federation (WEF), Chris Hornbeck of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), and Pete Machno of the NBP will be on-hand for a formal certification presentation ceremony to be held at 11:30 a.m. on April 16 at the Moccasin Bend Wastewater Treatment Plant. A celebration luncheon for local stake holders will follow. The NBP is an alliance of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies and the national Water Environment Federation, with advisory support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is committed to developing and advancing environmentally sound and sustainable biosolids management practices that go beyond regulatory compliance and serve as a model for the wastewater profession. For additional information, please contact: Jerry Stewart |
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