In the first phase of the project, we identified the status of available resources, existing problems, and created a narrative on water resources needs and assets for the community. In the second phase of the project, we are conducting a feasibility study of alternatives for a community wastewater system.
A feasibility study could include the following tasks:
- Background and study area characteristics – this first task will cover the compilation, review, and organization of all relevant background information on the project area conditions, prior studies, and regulatory requirements related to use of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS)
- Problem Assessment – the purpose of this task is to provide an assessment of the nature and extent of operational and environmental problems associated with the current onsite wastewater systems in Dillon Beach Village. The objectives in this step are (i) evaluating the functioning problems, conditions, and constraints for continued use and/or upgrade of existing septic issues; and (ii) analyzing the impacts on groundwater, including problems associated with overt surface failures as well as cumulative watershed effects due to the large number and high concentration of wastewater discharges
- Based on the results of task (1) and task (2), the potential service area boundaries for a community wastewater project will be developed in collaboration with the community, the county, and Regional Water Board staff members.
- Formulate wastewater alternatives – a preliminary list of options, applicable regulatory requirements, and other alternatives will be compiled and will be reviewed with the community before finalizing the list of options to be examined. A broad range of conventional and alternative wastewater technologies will be considered, as applicable, within each alternative. For example. Innovation onsite technologies, annexation to the existing facilities, cluster and community wastewater treatment etc.
- Development and Analysis of Alternatives – under this task an analysis and comparative review of the various alternatives will be completed for the purpose of identifying the apparent best wastewater management plan for the community.
- Public outreach – the task covers the public involvement and education activities for the project, including community meetings, and process-related information .
- Project report – the last task incorporates the preparation of the previous projects report.