Advisory For Meramec River From Fenton To Mississippi River Remains In Effect
The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District’s (MSD) Fenton Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in Fenton, Missouri, has reestablished primary treatment using temporary generator power and other means. By reestablishing primary treatment, wastewater is no longer being directly discharged into the Meramec River. Rather, wastewater from area homes and businesses is again being directed through the Fenton WWTP for primary treatment, before being discharged into the Meramec River. However, the wastewater coming into the plant is not yet receiving full treatment.
Primary treatment is the first step in the treatment process when any treatment plant is fully operating. Primary treatment involves the removal of solids from the wastewater. The next step of a fully functioning treatment process is called secondary treatment. This step utilizes biological processes to remove pollutants from the wastewater. A third step, in effect at the Fenton WWTP from April 1 through October 31, involves disinfection of the wastewater with ultra violet light.
On December 28, 2015, the Fenton WWTP was shut down after internal flooding began from within MSD’s own collection system, disrupting and damaging operations. Approximately 48 hours later, flooding from the Meramec River itself overwhelmed the plant when floodwaters topped the permanent, MSD-constructed levee around the Fenton WWTP. At one point, six feet of floodwater covered the entire facility. Essentially, the facility was a total loss.
Since floodwaters receded, work has been on-going to get the plant back to full treatment. As of February 14, 2016, MSD contractors have worked over 8,800 hours to restore operations at the plant. Much of the work is related to electrical systems at the plant. Thus far – and as an example of the extensive nature of the repairs that are needed – over 65,000 feet (or over 12 miles) of electrical wiring has been replaced.
Based on the current assessment of the damage and time needed for repairs, it is estimated that full treatment of wastewater will be brought back on-line in April. Other repairs to ensure backup systems and restore other non-critical functions of the plant will take longer.
While there is no immediate threat to the public’s health or safety, the public is still advised to avoid contact with the Meramec River from Fenton, Missouri, to the Mississippi River. Signs have been posted in areas where the public may readily come into contact with this section of the river. If anyone should come into contact with the river in this area, it is recommended they immediately and thoroughly wash with soap and water.
MSD is currently conducting weekly water quality monitoring of the Meramec River near the Fenton WWTP. Past and most recent results are available by clicking on 
. As shown, one sample is taken upstream of the Fenton WWTP, and several more samples are taken downstream of the plant.
Until the full treatment process is restored at the Fenton WWTP, MSD will make regular updates available on its website, www.stlmsd.com.
