The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency presented the Unity Township Municipal Authority in Westmoreland County, Pa. with a regional award for excellence in operation and maintenance of its wastewater treatment facility.

The award honors the staff involved in the day-to-day operations of the facility, and recognizes local officials for their commitment to maintain and protect their community’s environment. The authority is receiving the award in the small-advanced category, which includes facilities that treat less than one million gallons of sewage per day.

“Many significant improvements in our nation’s water quality can be attributed to better wastewater treatment,” said Donald S. Welsh, regional administrator for EPA’s mid-Atlantic Region. “This award recognizes the outstanding job that people at the Unity Township Municipal Authority are doing to help protect the environment.”

EPA reviews data and inspects facilities to determine award winners. Award recipients are selected for their performance in complying with wastewater discharge permits, maintenance management, laboratory practices, personnel training, and public awareness needs.

Welsh said the management and staff of the treatment plant are to be congratulated for their professionalism and determination. He said it’s evident that the staff involved in the day-to-day operations of the facility are highly trained and devoted to the environment.

12/8/2006