13 January
Goulburn Valley Water has commenced essential lagoon desludging works at the Shepparton Wastewater Management Facility this week.
Thirty thousand cubic metres of biosolids is expected to be removed from the bottom of the wastewater treatment lagoon between now and May, with the project specifically timed in summer to speed up the biosolid drying and processing time.
Project timing is one of several measures put in place by Goulburn Valley Water to help reduce the risk of potential odour, along with proactive odour monitoring, lime spreading and misting techniques.
There are many sustainability benefits to the project, with the nutrient-filled biosolids eventually to be offered as a soil conditioner for farmers to spread on cropping areas.
Goulburn Valley Water Managing Director Steve Capewell said the desludging is part of an ongoing maintenance program and is required periodically to ensure the lagoon can run as effectively as possible.
“The Shepparton facility treats about 6.5 gigalitres of wastewater each year, and these works are really important to help ensure the lagoon continues to function efficiently,” he said.
If nearby residents do experience odour from the works, they can report it to Goulburn Valley Water’s Customer Service Centre on 1800 454 500.
People can stay up to date by visiting the project page on the Goulburn Valley Water website: Shepparton lagoon desludging works | Goulburn Valley Water (www.gvwater.vic.gov.au/projects/current1projects/shepparton-lagoon-desludging-works)