The Billerica WRRF is still experiencing high flow. This is an update to the earlier notification. This event is ongoing.
As of approximately 3:00 P.M. on March 20, 2023, The Town of Billerica WRRF will continue to partially bypass its tertiary treatment process due to exceptionally high flow conditions. This tertiary process is used for phosphorus removal only. All incoming flow is still receiving full secondary treatment, and full disinfection. The partial bypass is being utilized at this time to provide the highest quality effluent possible during this high flow event. This high flow is a result of heavy rainfall and snow received on 3/13 and 3/14 which has substantially raised the level of groundwater in the area. These levels can take several days to subside. During this ongoing event, a portion of secondary effluent will bypass our tertiary treatment process and go straight to disinfection. Once again, all flow which is discharging from the facility to the Concord River is still receiving full secondary treatment and disinfection. The Town of Billerica WRRF continues to meet all limits set forth in our permit. (NPDES # MA0101711)
Under 314 CMR 16.04 (1)(b-e), The Town of Billerica WRRF is required to include the following language:
" Precautionary measures to be taken by the public, including.. Avoid contact with these water bodies for 48 hours after the discharge or overflow ceases due to increased health risks from bacteria and other pollutants."
"The discharge or overflow consists, or likely consists of untreated or partially treated sewage and waste."
The translations of this event can be seen by using a button located on the bottom right corner and selecting google language.