Wastewater Treatment and the Environment
KUB's wastewater treatment process ensures that the approximately 40 million gallons of water returned to the Tennessee River each day are cleaner and safer than when that water entered the collection system. Through multiple settling, separation, and disinfection processes, KUB assures the health of the communities it serves and the quality of the river system, ensuring the protection and preservation of East Tennessee's natural water supply for domestic, commercial, and recreational use.
Wastewater Environmental Programs
Biosolids Beneficial Reuse Program
As part of KUB's wastewater treatment process, KUB produces high-quality biosolids to keep solid waste out of landfills. KUB Biosolids are a Tennessee Department of Agriculture registered fertilizer.
KUB has beneficially reused its biosolids for over 30 years, applying the product to farms in Knox and surrounding counties at no cost to farmers. This saves local farmers approximately $1 million in fertilizer costs annually.
Email biosolids@kub.org if you are interested in learning more about using KUB's biosolids on your land.
River Monitoring Program
Since 2001, KUB has conducted a monthly River Monitoring Program to determine the impact of wastewater treatment plants' activities on the water quality of Fort Loudoun Lake.
This routine monitoring has shown that KUB's treatment plants have little effect on the lake and the Tennessee River. Results from both the field and KUB's state-certified water quality lab support this conclusion. Essentially, upstream and downstream samples are yielding the same results in their tests.
For more information on Knoxville water quality, visit the Knoxville Water Quality Forum website. Click here to learn more about how KUB protects natural water sources during the water treatment process.
