Effluent Quality
Monitoring Program
The quality of the effluent (the treated water sent out to the ocean) is monitored in accordance with the program specified in the District’s NPDES permit. The purpose of the monitoring program is to document the short-term and long-term effects, if any, of the discharge (effluent) on the ocean and to assess the overall treatment plant performance.
NPDES Permit CA0048160 and WDR Order No. R3-2017-0021
Laboratory Testing
The program consists of daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual testing of the influent (untreated wastewater), effluent (the treated wastewater), and biosolids. All testing is done in accordance with EPA-approved test procedures. All of the routine tests are performed by our in-house state-acredited laboratory personnel. More than 600 tests are done every month in the lab on samples from all stages of the treament process, including tests of the biosolids.
Reporting Program
The District must report all of the results of its self-monitoring program to the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Outfall Pipe
Ever wonder where treated wastewater goes? After thorough treatment, it travels through our outfall pipe, that which runs alongside the Goleta Pier at Goleta Beach County Park. See the inspection video below. Marine life is thriving along the pipeline.