Steve Chapin shows students an example of sludge that settles to the bottom of lagoons during the wastewater treatment process. Photo courtesy of Lake County Special Districts.

LAKE COUNTY – On June 7, 62 Pomo School fifth graders toured the county's Southeast Wastewater Treatment Plant to learn what happens to water when it goes down the drain.

The field trip, sponsored by Lake County Special Districts, was the culmination of “Waterwise,” a water conservation program taught in their classroom.

Students toured several areas of the facility to learn about wastewater treatment procedures and innovative technologies the county applies in the production of geothermal and solar energy.

Utility Area Superintendent Robert Saderlund, who works at the treatment plant, provided oversight of the tour.

He demonstrated the importance of not using the toilet as a wastebasket by displaying examples of items such as toys, jewelry, diapers and other objects often screened and removed at the Headwork’s prior to treatment. These items have the potential of plugging up the sewer, either at their home or in the mainline.

Students also observed the treatment process of wastewater being biologically transformed to effluent prior to being pumped to The Geysers for reuse in geothermal energy production. Lake County is a “net exporter” of electricity.

“Most students were unaware and surprised at how extensively water is reused and energy is generated at this facility, all in one location right in their neighborhood ” said Pomo fifth grade teacher Shane Lee. “They expected to only see ponds and machines that dispense chemicals to clean the water. This was certainly an educational experience.”

Students observed that not only is wastewater collected and treated at the plant, an array of 2,230 solar panels installed at the location generate 95 percent of the electricity needed to operate the plant.

They also viewed computerized maps and diagrams illustrating the path of treated water piped from the Northwest Treatment Plant near Lakeport.

The treated water travels 49 miles – including a stop at the Southeast Treatment plant on its way up to The Geysers.

The treatment plant tour was an opportunity to reinforce water conservation messages students learned in the classroom helping prepare them to become “Waterwise” consumers.

Lake County Special Districts provides water service and wastewater treatment in many areas of Lake County.

For more information about the Southeast Wastewater Treatment Plant or Lake County Special Districts call 707-263-0199.

Janine Smith-Citron works for Lake County Special Districts.

John Thompson talks with students about the energy generated from 2230 solar panels installed at the Southwest Treatment Plant. Photo courtesy of Lake County Special Districts.