WHEATON, IL — The City of Slidell, LA selected In-Pipe Technology® (In-Pipe) to provide system-wide wastewater treatment services in a program underwritten by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). In-Pipe's patented biological treatment process will be used throughout the sewer collection system and wastewater treatment plant to improve operating efficiency and effluent quality.

Slidell, LA was among the hardest hit by Hurricane Katrina. Sustained winds of 170 mph and a 25' storm surge devastated much of the City. The wastewater treatment facility had 4 feet of water on-site and 30 inches of water inside the buildings. Statewide, it is estimated that more than $1 billion in damage was done to municipal sewer systems and treatment plants.

"Beyond the physical destruction to infrastructure, hurricanes and even heavy rains can wreak havoc on wastewater treatment systems by damaging the biomass, breaking loose solids and grit from the pipes, and washing out beneficial biology that is important for effective treatment", says Daniel Williamson, CEO of In-Pipe Technology. "In-Pipe can help treatment plants speed recovery and sustain improved treatment thereafter".

After reviewing the landscape of devastation and looking for opportunities to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of wastewater treatment throughout the State, the Louisiana DEQ turned its attention to In-Pipe Technology. The City of Slidell had already completed a comprehensive technical review of In-Pipe prior to Hurricane Katrina. Now, the Louisiana DEQ was in a position to provide the necessary support to help get the project off the ground.

"This deployment in Slidell represents an opportunity for the State of Louisiana to evaluate next generation technologies to improve overall operating efficiency and performance of wastewater treatment, benefiting our residents and taxpayers," states Secretary Michael McDaniel of the Louisiana DEQ. "By implementing In-Pipe Technology, the City of Slidell seeks to increase capacity of its treatment plant and improve effluent quality, while reducing biosolids production, energy consumption, and overall operating expenses," states Stanley Polivick, PE, Slidell City Engineer.

The deployment in Slidell will provide benchmark data and evaluation tools for other wastewater treatment facilities throughout the State. "In-Pipe's engineered process of biologically treating wastewater en route to the plant is being used at a wide range of treatment facilities throughout the U.S. and abroad. Pre-treatment provides benefits in the collection system, at the plant and in the quality of effluent," states Williamson.