LA PLATA, Md. – The Town of La Plata’s wastewater treatment plant has been undergoing phased upgrades to address commitments made by the State to reduce nutrients in the region. The Maryland Department of the Environment’s (MDE) Enhanced Nutrient Removal program focuses on upgrades to wastewater treatment plants to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus discharges. The Town’s current and planned enhancements were reviewed and approved by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE).
The Town is working closely with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) staff to resolve violations of the Town’s discharge permit at the Town’s wastewater treatment plant, which appear to have occurred during the plant upgrades and/or excessive rainfall events.
To assess the plant’s current operations and the cause of the violations, the Town engaged CDM Smith, a reputable, international engineering firm with scientists who specialize in waste water, water, and the environment. CDM Smith recently provided a professional report with recommendations.
Once approved by the Town Council, the recommendations and increased monitoring systems will be implemented immediately at the plant.
The Town of La Plata continues to work closely with MDE to stay compliant, and additional updates will be shared publicly as they become available. The Town’s drinking water is safe and has not been affected.
An update on the plant operations will be presented to the Town Council at its July 29, 2025 business meeting at 6:00 pm at Town Hall. The public is welcome to attend, or residents can join online (go to the Town’s Webpage, www.TownofLaPlata.org, and click on the ‘How Do I’ tab and find ‘Meeting Agenda and Minutes.’ Click on this link and you will be directed to the meeting platform).