Auburn, Calif. — Curious about what happens after a flush? Nevada County Wastewater team is opening the gates and offering public tours of the Lake of the Pines treatment facility.

“This is an opportunity to see what your wastewater plant does for your neighborhood to keep it clean, safe and environmentally sound,” said Brad Torres, sanitation general manager for Nevada County.

The public is invited to tour Lake of the Pines treatment plant Sept. 27 at 10984 Riata Way, Auburn.
The public is invited to tour Lake of the Pines treatment plant Sept. 27 at 10984 Riata Way, Auburn.

Tours will take place 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 27 at 10984 Riata Way, Auburn. This treatment plant services approximately 2,330 dwelling units in the Lake of the Pines, Higgins Village and Darkhorse areas.

The tours will show what a wastewater worker’s day is like, what happens to your dishwater and what the facility does in emergencies. Refreshments will be offered, as well.

At right, Brad Rist of Nevada County Wastewater, explains the sewer operations at the Lake Wildwood treatment facility.
At right, Brad Rist of Nevada County Wastewater, explains the sewer operations at the Lake Wildwood treatment facility.

“We will have workers onsite to answer questions and see the lengths they will go to serve the community, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Torres said.

Nevada County Sanitation District handles nearly 1 million gallons of water daily through more than 110 miles of pipe and treats it all at 10 treatment plants in Western Nevada County.

The Lake Wildwood Wastewater Treatment facility will host a tour Oct. 25.

What to expect:

This free tour will give a behind-the-scenes look at the treatment processes, following water through the facility.

Wastewater equipment such as cranes, vactor trucks and pipe maintenance equipment will be on display as part of the wastewater facility tours at Lake Wildwood and Lake of the Pines.
Wastewater equipment such as cranes, vactor trucks and pipe maintenance equipment will be on display as part of the wastewater facility tours at Lake Wildwood and Lake of the Pines.

Expect to walk on uneven and unpaved ground, climb stairs, and walk for three-fourths of a mile. Treatment plants are functioning industrial sites operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Open pits, moving vehicles, and chemicals are just a few of the safety hazards present at this site. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are required for your safety and comfort. Attendees will be asked to sign a waiver prior to taking the tour. Participants under the age of 18 must have their parent or guardian sign the waiver.

Visit NevadaCountyCa.gov/Wastewater for more information.