Editor’s note: Tara Kelley and her fellow wastewater employees oversee one of the most complex wastewater treatment and collection systems in the region. They manage approximately 38 million gallons of wastewater a day; 1,750+ miles of collection pipe, 35,000 manhole covers; and more than 370 locations where wastewater pipes cross local creeks.
Most of us don’t give a second thought to the water we use in our homes once it goes down the drain. But our dedicated wastewater workers think about it every day. Wastewater Operations takes pride in ensuring continuous, uninterrupted service to our citizen owners. That service starts with employees who have the skills and trade knowledge required to operate and maintain more than 1,770 miles of wastewater collection pipeline, 20 wastewater lift stations, and three Resource Recovery Facilities within our system.
Over the years, wastewater workers and the facilities they manage have received industry-wide recognition for safety, performance, innovation, and leadership. Without them, the impacts on public health would be devastating. These workers deserve thanks every day, but especially during Wastewater Worker Recognition Week, April 18 - 24, 2021, as proclaimed by Colorado Governor Jared Polis.
There’s a reason this special week occurs in April and coincides with Earth Day (April 22). Responsible management of wastewater has environmental benefits. Whether it’s improving the water quality of the creek that receives our treated water, recycling water for irrigation or industrial uses, or utilizing produced biogas for on-site energy, our wastewater operations demonstrate environmental stewardship every day.
Since the first treatment plant was built in Colorado Springs in 1935, our collection and treatment workers have continually adapted to challenges and adopted new technologies to keep up with customer and regulatory needs. Since March 2020, this has also included careful consideration of occupational risks associated with COVID-19 to ensure these essential workers stay safe and our wastewater service to the community remains uninterrupted.
Wastewater workers are passionate, humble and hardworking. They often respond to less-than-ideal conditions and at any time of the day or night. They pride themselves on exceeding customer expectations and keeping our wastewater flowing every day of the year.
Join the Colorado Springs Utilities Board meeting on Wednesday, April 21 at 1 p.m. to hear public recognition of our wastewater workers by members of our leadership team. View the agenda where you will find a link to view the live meeting.
