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2008 - 2017 Capital Improvement Program

 

Project #8026, Septage Management

Description: Several changes to the current Hauled Liquid Waste Management Program are being implemented to improve the control of discharges to the MDS, protect the infrastructure, improve security, and capture appropriate revenue costs. Under this project, the current septage site in Chanhassen is being upgraded to meet program requirements. In addition, the Empire disposal site, which was recently constructed, will serve as a prototype facility. Facilities are also planned for the Blue Lake Plant and the north metro area, at the recently purchased septage facility in Fridley, which will replace four existing septage sites in the north metro area.

Project Map

Purpose and Justification:

The MCES provides for the collection and treatment of hauled liquid wastes at designated receiving sites around the region. The Council has assumed this responsibility to assure proper treatment of septage and other hauled liquid wastes originating from communities within the metropolitan area. During 2003, MCES completed a study to evaluate the effectiveness of this system and the impact that hauled liquid wastes has on the treatment system to determine the most efficient and cost effective method for treatment and disposal. During the study, policy guidance was provided by the MCES Environmental Services Management Team (ESMT). The ESMT directed that the Hauled Liquid Waste Program assure sufficient regulation of discharges to protect the Metropolitan Disposal System (MDS) infrastructure and improve security. To accomplish this, hauled liquid waste will only be accepted at Council designated “official receiving sites.” These receiving sites will have the following attributes:

• Secured access – Gates allowing only permitted haulers to enter and use site

• Means for recording loads discharged – Electronic (preferred) or paper system to capture data about the hauled waste discharged

• Means for sampling – Provision to hold waste prior to discharge (large enough for a representative sample)

• Means for volume measurement – Scale or flow meter to measure incoming truck weight or volume discharged

Furthermore, disposal of hauled liquid wastes will be restricted to treatment plants unless provisions are made to control the waste strength during its introduction into the interceptor system. Dilution should be sufficient to minimize the risk of odor and corrosion. Additionally, any disposal site located on the interceptor will not be located where excess sediment, hydrogen sulfide, or corrosion are already present (or in close proximity to flat sloped sewers, force mains, or other unfavorable situations).

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Project Authorization:

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   Projected Cash Flow:

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Impact on O&M Costs:

There will be additional O&M costs associated with running and cleaning out the new septage receiving sites. The estimated annual cost for these services is $67,500. The estimated cost for additional sampling, monitoring, and administration of the new sites is $105,000. However, this project will reduce the need to clean and premature deterioration of the existing sanitary sewers in which the septage is dumped.

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