Where Does It Go When You Flush?

Original Post from 2024

Where does it go when you flush it?

It’s an important question that most of us (who don’t have septic tanks) simply take for granted….or would prefer not to think about altogether! But if you don’t want a taste of early 19th Century dysentery or cholera, and presuming you’d prefer to reduce the probability of disgusting backups in your home, then I’d recommend you know what’s behind that sewer bill the next time you pay it.

Today I got a great tour of plant operations from Newport’s Water Pollution Control Division. From the primary pump station at Long Wharf (yup, a set of giant 💩 vacuums) to the Treatment Facility on J T Connell Hwy., it was fascinating to trace a flow that starts as, well, you know….and ends as water so clean that it’s safe to deposit in the Narragansett Bay. Along the way there’s masceration and sludge removal and clarification and filtration and odor control, as well as an orchestration of beneficial bacteria that consume a host of biohazards and pollutants. There’s a ton of cool science involved, but a good mix of experience and art as well.

Flush confidently, my friends!