Clean water is critical for sustaining life and our most basic sanitary needs, yet many people take for granted the flow of water in and out of their homes. Where does it all go after we flush the toilet or pull the plug on the drain, and what’s more, how does it safely find its way back into the environment?

Treatment of wastewater is a relatively modern practice. While sewers to carry away foul-smelling water were common in ancient Rome, it was not until the 19th century that cities began to understand the need to reduce the pollutants in the used water they were sending back into the environment.  Since that time, the practice of clean water collection and treatment has made substantial engineering improvements, and many state and federal regulations have been put in place.

As a result, public health, water quality, and our water environment are all enhanced and protected better today than ever before.

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