Becoming a better neighbor: reducing odors
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New odor-control facility
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Formerly, one of the most noticeable aspects of
wastewater treatment at the Metropolitan Syracuse Wastewater Treatment Plant was its odor. The
Onondaga County Department of Water Environment Protection (WEP) undertook a substantial project, beginning in
late 1997, to reduce significantly the plant's odors.
WEP began with an "odor audit" to identify
where the most smell was produced. The wastewater was
then enclosed at the points identified as producing
the most intensive odors.
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Renovated screenings and grit building
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Major
improvements were made to the plant's headworks, the
place where sanitary sewage enters the plant. Additionally:
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The screening and gritting operations were renovated.
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A new residuals handling system was installed.
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The primary clarifiers were covered.
New ducts were installed to carry air with odors to a
new facility where the air is continuously treated to
remove the smelly chemical compounds.
The Metropolitan Syracuse Wastewater Treatment Plant is now a much better neighbor and will be
more compatible with the new developments taking place
south of Onondaga Lake.
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