How Your Wastewater Is Treated & Reused
Wastewater is the used water that leaves homes and commercial properties through sinks, toilets, showers, washing machines and other plumbing fixtures. It travels through the sewer system to the SLWSD Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment. Wastewater does not include rainwater or stormwater.
Click the tabs below to explore each step of the wastewater journey.
Step 1 - Collection
Wastewater from homes and businesses flows by gravity through underground sewer lines to lift stations. Using electric pumps, these stations move wastewater through pressurized pipes to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
All SLWSD lift stations are electronically monitored at the treatment plant. If a station experiences a problem, staff are automatically notified and can respond promptly.
Step 2 - Headworks
When wastewater arrives at the treatment plant, it first enters the headworks, where screens remove large solids and debris such as wipes, plastics and other materials that should not enter the sewer system. Removing these materials helps protect pumps and other treatment equipment from clogs and damage before the wastewater moves to the next stage of treatment.
The materials removed during the screening process are collected and properly disposed of at a landfill in accordance with applicable Florida and federal regulations.
Step 3 - Aerators
Wastewater then enters the aeration basins, where it is continuously moved and mixed while air is introduced into the water. This movement and aeration provide oxygen and create an environment where naturally occurring, beneficial bacteria can grow and thrive. These microorganisms help treat the wastewater by breaking down organic matter, nutrients and other waste materials.
Step 4 - Clarifiers
Wastewater then flows into large clarifiers, where gravity allows remaining solids and biological material to settle to the bottom. The clearer water rises to the top and flows to the next stage of the treatment process, while the settled material is collected for further treatment.
Throughout this process, our staff regularly collects and tests water samples to monitor treatment performance and ensure the water is being properly treated.
Step 5 - Filtration & Disinfection
Clarified water passes through tertiary filters to remove remaining fine particles, then is disinfected with liquid bleach to eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens.
Step 6 - Storage
The fully treated and disinfected water, now known as reclaimed water, is stored in large holding ponds until it is ready for reuse. From there, it is distributed through the District’s Reclaimed Water Distribution System and used primarily for irrigation throughout St. Lucie West.
Step 7 - Reuse
Reclaimed water is used to irrigate lawns and landscaped areas throughout St. Lucie West, including residential communities, commercial properties and other green spaces. By reusing treated wastewater for irrigation instead of drinking water, the District helps conserve valuable water resources.
Benefits of Reclaimed Water
Conserves Drinking Water: Using reclaimed water for irrigation reduces the need to use treated drinking water for lawns and landscaping, helping conserve valuable groundwater resources and supporting Florida’s long-term water supply.
Supports Community Landscapes: Reclaimed water provides a reliable source of irrigation for lawns, landscaping and green spaces throughout St. Lucie West. Following the District’s irrigation schedule helps use this resource efficiently and reduces unnecessary water waste.
Help Conserve Irrigation Water
- Water only when needed.
- Inspect sprinkler heads regularly.
- Avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.
- Repair leaks promptly.
- Use mulch around plants.
- Consider drought-tolerant and Florida-friendly landscaping.
Participate in the Wastewater Treatment Process
One of the easiest ways residents can help protect our wastewater system is by being mindful of what goes down the drain or gets flushed down the toilet.
Keep These Out of Toilets and Drains:
- “Flushable” wipes
- Paper towels
- Cooking grease, fats and oils
- Feminine hygiene products
- Cotton swabs and similar household items
Even products labeled “flushable” do not break down like toilet paper and can clog sewer lines or damage pumps and treatment equipment. Keeping these materials out of the wastewater system helps prevent service disruptions and unnecessary maintenance costs.
Remember the Three Ps: Only PEE, POO and toilet PAPER should be flushed!
Tour the SLWSD Wastewater Treatment Plant
Interested in seeing the wastewater treatment process firsthand? Take a tour of the SLWSD Wastewater Treatment Plant and learn more about each step of your wastewater’s journey. Fill out and submit a Tour Request Form to get started. A minimum of five people is required per tour.