AUSTIN – Austin Water’s South Austin Regional (SAR) Wastewater Treatment Plant was recognized earlier today by the Water Environment Association of Texas for outstanding performance. The Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant of the Year Award – Category 3 was presented to Austin Water leadership at an awards ceremony at the Texas Water 2022 conference in San Antonio. The Category 3 award is reserved for the largest treatment plants capable of treating greater than 15 million gallons of wastewater a day.

Treated wastewater produced by Austin’s wastewater treatment plants, including SAR, consistently far exceed regulatory requirements, with levels of quality and clarity nearing those of drinking water.

“Austin Water is honored by this recognition,” said Rick Coronado, Austin Water’s Assistant Director of Operations. “We’re proud of our staff and their tremendous dedication to protecting the Colorado River. The team at South Austin Regional has routinely produced effluent at the highest discharge permit levels and standards.”

Within the last five years, South Austin Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant has received numerous other awards and recognition and establishing itself as a leader in the wastewater industry. Awards include National Association of Clean Water Agencies Peak Performance Gold Award in 2017, Silver Award in 2018, Silver Award in 2019, and Gold Award in 2020.  

The SAR Wastewater Treatment Plant was originally built in 1984. Over the years, the treatment plant has undergone numerous improvements and upgrades to modernize treatment methods and technologies as well as expand treatment capacity to up to 75 million gallons of wastewater a day. SAR is also a key facility in meeting Austin’s reclaimed water needs for non-potable water such as irrigation, cooling towers, and virtually any use not requiring higher-quality drinking water.

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