Prevention
WLSSD's mission is to protect the environment in our region, including the St. Louis River. The St. Louis River flows into Lake Superior, the largest fresh water lake by surface area in the world. As a member of this community, we have a responsibility to protect this international treasure.
Preventing pollution before it happens is better than cleaning it up later.
WLSSD treats wastewater from 8 municipalities and several industries around the Duluth/Cloquet, MN area. It is the largest point source discharger on the US side of Lake Superior. The quality of our discharge and the activities of our residents and businesses can impact Lake Superior. Because of this, preventing pollution takes on a special importance at WLSSD.
Pollution prevention is the simple but powerful idea that it makes more sense to stop producing waste than to develop treatment technologies to manage or remove it.
WLSSD works with local industries to reduce toxic discharges into the wastewater treatment plant and conducts pollution prevention education with residents and businesses.
You can make a difference at home, both in the quality of the water that you send to WLSSD and in the health of your own home, family and local environment. Some pollution prevention tips:
- Manage mercury properly
- Don't pour old medications down the drain.
- Use safe home cleaning and lawn care techniques.
- Don't burn garbage!
WLSSD's commitment to improving water quality goes beyond high-quality wastewater treatment. WLSSD actively participates in local, national and international efforts to assure improved water quality in Lake Superior. WLSSD believes pollution prevention is the most effective way to protect Lake Superior and its watershed. Thank you for your own pollution prevention efforts!