Dry Creek Wastewater Treatment Biosolids Management Plan

Decatur Utilities faced critical challenges at their Dry Creek WWTP when perfluorochemicals (PFCs) from industrial discharges contaminated biosolids, forcing suspension of agricultural land application. Landfill disposal options became limited as operators restricted biosolids acceptance due to PFC contamination concerns.

Ardurra developed a comprehensive Biosolids Management Plan that transformed the facility's solids handling processes. The existing anaerobic digestion system processed over 35 tons of volatile solids daily but suffered from poor mixing, low destruction rates, and inadequate biogas production. Five primary/secondary anaerobic digesters generated more than 100,000 cubic feet of methane biogas daily, yet the facility relied on expensive natural gas for heating.

The solution included new rotary drum thickeners, enhanced digester mixing and heat-exchange systems, improved gas scrubbing, and replacement of belt presses with Andritz centrifuges. A new polymer system optimized dewatering operations, with future provisions for gas-fired solids drying and monofill disposal.

Ardurra secured EPA grant funding by positioning the project as a green energy initiative. The comprehensive services included grant applications, permitting, design, bidding, and construction oversight.

Results delivered immediate value: the facility returned to methane biogas fuel for hot water boilers, saving Decatur Utilities over $150,000 annually while resolving biosolids disposal challenges and improving overall treatment efficiency.