Effluent Quality
Monitoring Program
The quality of the effluent (the water that has been purified and 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 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 purified and 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 certified laboratory personnel. Over 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 Regional Water Quality Control Board and the EPA.
Outfall Pipe
Ever wonder where treated wastewater goes? After thorough treatment, it travels through our outfall pipe that runs alongside the Goleta pier at Goleta Beach Park. Check out this recent inspection video—marine life is thriving along the pipeline.