Dry Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements

Ardurra transformed the underperforming Dry Creek WWTP for Decatur Utilities, addressing insufficient biological activity and poor treatment performance through comprehensive evaluation and phased improvements at the 36-MGD activated sludge facility. The systematic approach identified critical design and operational deficiencies while addressing high BOD, TSS, ammonia, and sulfate loading from industrial customers.

Following extensive evaluation including BioWin process modeling, RAS/WAS review, and energy consumption analysis, Ardurra developed a two-phased improvement strategy. The root cause analysis revealed insufficient aeration combined with intermittent industrial peak loads were starving the biomass, requiring complete aeration system redesign for energy-efficient operation.

Key Project Highlights:

• Achieved $300,000 annual energy savings through aeration system redesign and high-efficiency turbo blower installation

• Redesigned complete aeration system including fine-bubble diffusers, piping improvements, and SCADA integration for optimal biological performance

• Rehabilitated six primary clarifiers and four anaerobic digesters with methane gas recovery compressors and scrubbers

• Installed new centrifuge dewatering facility with two centrifuge systems, polymer systems, and in-line grinders for enhanced solids handling

• Developed Industrial Pretreatment Ordinance addressing high industrial loading impacts on treatment performance

• Completed comprehensive facility evaluation covering process performance, nutrient removal, regulatory compliance, and odor control

• Provided full engineering services from design through resident observation during construction phases

The improvements enabled Decatur Utilities to easily achieve treatment goals while significantly reducing operational costs. The phased approach ensured continuous plant operation while systematically addressing biological, mechanical, and regulatory challenges affecting long-term facility performance.