The Story Of A Successful Sewage Plant

A successful sewage plant in Pacifica converts sludge into protected wetlands.

1 minute read

January 7, 2001, 9:00 AM PST

By California 2000


The city of Pacifica, located just south of San Francisco, hasrecently opened a new sewage treatment plant. The plant is so effectivethat, in addition to ensuring that the effluent going into the PacificOcean meets environmental standards, the water released by the plantwill actually be used to restore a wetlands ecosystem. The wetlands arehome to an increasing number of plant and animal species, including twothat are listed as endangered. Rather than using chlorine to treat thewater, which would prevent it from then being transferred to thewetlands, the system uses ultra violet rays to treat wastewater. Fourmillion gallons a day can be treated by the system, which results in thetreated effluent meeting Pacifica's criteria for safe drinking water.

Thanks to California 2000 Project

Monday, January 1, 2001 in San Jose Mercury News

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog