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An environmental solution for industrial effluent reuse

Date

2000-06

Authors

Kao, Samuel E., author
Bonar, Michael J., author
Hellerud, Arthur, author
U.S. Committee on Irrigation and Drainage, publisher

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Abstract

The Snowflake Mill is located in a rural setting in Arizona. Through its papermaking process, the mill produces approximately 14 million gallons of effluent each day. Historically, this effluent had been discharged to a natural body of water called "Dry Lake". In 1992, however, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a consent decree which required the effluent either to be treated or cease discharging into Dry Lake. In the absence of complying with these requirements, EPA would seek the suspension of the mill's operations. After carefully evaluating various alternatives, the solids recovery system and biomass irrigation approach was chosen to be implemented for the complete elimination of the discharge to Dry Lake. Entellus, Inc. was retained by Abitibi Consolidated to provide planning, design and construction management services for the biomass irrigation project. The key components of the project included a 3,500- acre biomass plantation, two 30- and 36-inch diameter pipelines with lengths totaling 22,000 feet, approximately 14 miles of unlined earthen ditches, and a 260-acre impoundment formed by a 6,000- foot long earthen dam. The construction of the entire biomass irrigation project was completed at the end of 1996. The approach of biomass irrigation for effluent reuse has been proved to be extremely successful. It eliminated the need for advanced treatment and pumping facilities and in turn saved $50 million in capital investment and $10 million in annual operation and maintenance costs. In addition to the socio-economic benefits, this approach offers an opportunity to conserve a precious water resource. The project has become an environmental showplace in which the State of Arizona and Abitibi Consolidated can take pride.

Description

Presented at the 2000 USCID international conference, Challenges facing irrigation and drainage in the new millennium on June 20-24 in Fort Collins, Colorado.

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