The Richardson Water Treatment Plant produces an average of 3 million gallons per day. In 2022 bio-growth was observed in the cartridge filters before the reverse osmosis membranes. After the operations staff investigated, the source appeared to be the Pee Dee aquifer. Environmental testing revealed it originated from surficial water sources. The raw water line was partially pigged in 2023, and a selection of wells were cleaned/ chlorinated in 2023. Bio growth has been reduced but continues to foul the cartridge filters. The goal of the project will be to determine the root cause of the bio-growth, develop options for eradication, remove bio growth from Pee Dee raw water line and develop a maintenance plan and schedule to prevent or reduce bio growth in the future.
