Geotextile Tube Dewatering for Cost-Effective Lagoon Sludge Removal and Decommissioning

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this project was to provide a cost-effective solution for wastewater lagoon sludge removal as part of a lagoon decommissioning project for a Native American community of less than 2,000 members. The goal was to remove and contain approximately 1.3 million gallons of lagoon sludge in a cost-effective, environmentally responsible manner while ensuring compliance with local regulatory standards. One of the key challenges was managing the large volume of sludge that had accumulated over time, which required an efficient dewatering and containment method.

SOLUTIONS

Prior to award of the project, WaterSolve representatives traveled to the project site and collected representative lagoon sludge samples that were brought back to our treatability laboratory for detailed evaluation. Results of this the bench-scale testing allowed us to accurately assess the feasibility of various dewatering technologies and estimate the required type and quantity of polymer, and other project costs, ensuring a precise and efficient solution. Geotextile tube dewatering was ultimately chosen as the most suitable solution, offering a cost-efficient, sustainable alternative (to traditional liquid hauling or mechanical dewatering) that reduced transportation costs, minimized environmental impact, and met all project requirements.

Once Watersolve was awarded this work, a skilled crew and specialized pumping equipment was mobilized to the project location. Solve 137 polymer was made-down using a WSLP-1000V2 polymer make-down unit and injected into the sludge piping prior to the geotextile tubes. The geotextile tubes were then deployed on a lined and graded lay-down area to facilitate the geotextile tube filtrate returning to an adjacent pond.  Over the course of roughly 2 weeks on site, Watersolve technicians were able to pump, chemical condition and contain the 1.3-MG of lagoon sludge in the geotextile tubes. The filled geotextile tubes were left on-site to further consolidate and dewater, with the project owner eventually removing the dewatered material for final disposal.

By gathering accurate bench-scale data, we were able to keep the project on budget, meet timeline requirements, and provide a sustainable, cost-effective solution for our customer.

THE RESULTS

WaterSolve was able to successfully remove and dewater the wastewater lagoon sludge for the rural Native American community. By deploying geotextile tube dewatering technology and leveraging accurate bench-scale testing data, WaterSolve managed to design and implement a solution that met both technical and budgetary requirements. Ultimately, the project enhanced the community’s wastewater infrastructure while contributing to long-term environmental stewardship.