Wastewater Treatment

NALBOH Environmental Health Pages

*New Online Resource:

Repository of Local Environmental Health Policies

The health of a community and its water resources must be protected from the harmful effects of inadequately treated wastewater. These harmful effects include waterborne diseases or other illnesses, and the pollution of rivers, streams, lakes, groundwater supplies, or other water bodies. Today, public health officials play an important role in regulating wastewater systems. NALBOH continuously strives to assist local board of health members (or other public health governing bodies) in understanding wastewater systems, as well as understanding the role they play in governing health agency programs and activities.

In the News

The EPA has announced a new planning approach to help localities achieve clean water by controlling and managing releases of wastewater and storm water runoff more efficiently and cost effectively.

The Allen County Board of Health (IN) passed a new private sewage disposal ordinance.

Franklin County health officials have plans to track down and eliminate untreated sewage that leaks into streams from faulty septic systems, although it could take years to find all the leaks.

The EPA answers frequently asked questions regarding hydraulic fracturing and wastewater.

CDC website features wastewater-related capacity building tools. Study finds wastewater to be a potential energy source.

Iowa CAFO agrees to fine for unauthorized wastewater discharge.Study finds that E.R. visits for gastrointestinal illnesses spike after heavy rains, suggesting microbes from sewage may contaminate drinking water supplies.

Hawaii is commended for its green wastewater projects.

Seattle’s sewers are clogged with grease, causing some wastewater backups.

Watch Video of the Opening General Session of the 82rd Annual Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference. Dr. Mike Magee spoke about what health professionals should know about water.

First of its Kind Wastewater Treatment Plant in Oregon Recycles Nutrients into Fertilizer.

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For questions or more information about NALBOH's Environmental Health programs, please contact Carrie Hribar.

Page updated 2/03/2012.