Becoming a better neighbor: reducing odors

New odor-control facility

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.

Renovated screenings and grit building

Major improvements were made to the plant's headworks, the place where sanitary sewage enters the plant. Additionally:

The screening and gritting operations were renovated.
A new residuals handling system was installed.
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.

Return to “Upgrading treatment.”

Return to “Projects to improve water quality.”