Ecology-funded wastewater treatment plant project earns national recognition

On July 21, 2026, we joined Lummi Nation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Tribal Council members, and other partners to celebrate the Gooseberry Point Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements. This Ecology-funded project was one of five 'Exceptional Projects' chosen from around the country this year to receive EPA's PISCES Award.

This national award recognizes outstanding Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) projects focused on innovative financing, system partnerships, community engagement, infrastructure designed for the future, and environmental protection.

The Gooseberry Point Wastewater Treatment Plant project is an example of how small communities and Tribes can successfully complete large-scale infrastructure improvements while navigating permitting, financial barriers, and construction challenges. Celebrating and sharing these wins helps support other communities facing similar hurdles, which is why Ecology chose to nominate this project for the PISCES Award.

Lummi Tribal Sewer & Water District received approximately $15 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The upgrades made at Gooseberry Point protect water quality, Tribal resources, and habitat essential to species like the Southern Resident orca population, marbled murrelets, and Puget Sound rockfish. The facility also includes climate resilient engineering that addresses sea level rise, high tides, and extreme weather. The infrastructure is designed to serve the community needs through 2037.

About the Clean Water State Revolving Fund

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund is one of eight funding sources that make up Ecology's Water Quality Combined Funding Program. This funding program helps to improve and protect water quality throughout the state. Every year, applicants can access grants and loans through a single application process. We use a competitive ranking system to award funding and provide technical assistance to applicants.

A celebration of partnership and environmental stewardship

Since 2015, Ecology, EPA, and Lummi Nation have worked together to improve water quality in Hale Passage and outer Bellingham Bay. The PISCES Award recognizes not only the physical infrastructure improvements at Gooseberry Point, but also the dedication and hard work shown by Lummi Tribal Sewer & Water District and partners throughout the project's development. Alongside Lummi Nation and EPA, Ecology is proud to celebrate what strong partnerships can accomplish for clean water in Washington.