Pueblo Wastewater Department Earns Silver Peak Performance Award

PUEBLO-The City of Pueblo Wastewater Department and the James R. Dilorio Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) was recognized by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) with the Silver Peak Performance Award for second year in a row. This was in recognition of its complete and consistent permit compliance during the 2024 calendar year.

"The Pueblo Wastewater Department is honored to receive this achievement of Silver Peak Performance Award," said Director of Wastewater Andra Ahrens. "I am very proud of our team who earned this achievement because of the hard work and commitment to environmental protection standards which serve the Pueblo community and our waterways."

Silver Awards recognize NACWA member agency facilities for excellence in wastewater treatment as measured by compliance with their NPDS permit, an underground injection control permit, or a state control mechanism that regulates effluent quality and reuse of reclaimed flows.

Effective maintenance of the Water Reclamation Facility is critical in maintaining compliance and providing the maintenance of sanitary sewer main throughout the City of Pueblo. The Water Reclamation Facility treats more than 10 million gallons of wastewater per day and is reclaimed through natural processes.

"Proper collection and treatment are essential for public health for residents of Pueblo and the surrounding region," said Ahrens.

Each year during the annual meeting NACWA recognized the commitment, innovation and achievements of public water entities and individual achievements for the clean water community. Other awards in addition to the Peak Performance Awards include the Clean Water Advocate Recognition Program, Excellence in Management Recognition Program, National Environmental Achievement Awards, Utility of the Future Today Recognition Program and the NACWA Hall of Fame.

For over 50 years, NACWA has been the nation's recognized leader in legislative, regulatory, and legal advocacy on the full spectrum of clean water issues, as well as top technical resource for water management, sustainability and ecosystem protection interests. NACWA represents public wastewater and stormwater agencies of all sizes nationwide. The Association's unique and growing network strengthens the advocacy voice for all member utilities, and ensures they have the tools necessary to provide affordable and sustainable clean water for all.