The Village of Yellow Springs Wastewater Department operates and maintains the Village’s sanitary sewer collection system and Water Reclamation Facility in compliance with Ohio Environmental Protection Agency regulations. The department protects public health and the environment by safely collecting, treating, and processing wastewater before it is discharged back into local waterways.

The department also maintains the Village’s stormwater system to help manage runoff, reduce flooding risks, and support the long-term health of local waterways.
     
Wastewater Services & Responsibilities
The Wastewater Department is responsible for:

• Operating and maintaining the Village’s sanitary sewer collection system
• Managing the Water Reclamation Facility
• Maintaining sanitary sewer and stormwater infrastructure
• Cleaning and inspecting sewer lines, lift stations, and related equipment
• Monitoring treatment processes to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
• Maintaining stormwater infrastructure, including catch basins and drainage systems

The Village’s sewer system includes more than thirty miles of sanitary sewer lines and more than ten miles of stormwater lines, supported by two lift stations that assist with wastewater flow.
     
Water Reclamation Facility
The Village’s Water Reclamation Facility is a Class II wastewater treatment facility that uses a multi-step treatment process to remove contaminants from wastewater before it is discharged back into the environment.

The facility was originally constructed in 1964, with major improvements completed in 1988 and 2010. It is designed to treat an average flow of 0.6 million gallons per day, with a peak capacity of 3.4 million gallons per day.

Treated wastewater, known as effluent, is released into Yellow Springs Creek after treatment and disinfection, eventually flowing into the Little Miami River.

Wastewater Treatment Process

     
Help Protect the Sewer System
Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down toilets. Items such as wipes, fats, oils and grease, medications, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, and cigarette butts can damage equipment, cause blockages, and create sewer system issues.
    

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The primary goal of wastewater treatment is to remove contaminants, including organic matter, nutrients, and pathogens, to protect public health and the environment before treated water is returned to local waterways.

Primary Treatment: Removes large solids, sand, grit, and debris through physical processes such as screening and grit removal.

Secondary Treatment: Uses biological processes where microorganisms break down remaining organic matter. Aeration and secondary clarifiers help further clean the wastewater.

Tertiary (Advanced) Treatment: Provides additional treatment to remove nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus and disinfects the water before discharge.

After treatment and disinfection, treated wastewater is released into Yellow Springs Creek and eventually flows into the Little Miami River.