From Rare to Common

Treatment lagoons in Batavia, N.Y., attract a wide assortment of waterfowl, shorebirds and wildlife — and large crowds of watchers.

Dec 17, 2013 | by Jeff Smith |

Lagoon Wastewater

Ducks and many other birds are seen on and around the ponds, including herons, loons, swans, egrets, terns, hawks and geese.

Nine lagoons make up the natural treatment system in the City of Batavia in western New York. On a 500-acre site just southwest of the city, they treat about 3 mgd (5.5 mgd design flow) and also serve as a destination for birdwatchers from all over the region.“Recently we had a whole flock of birders in here because they could get a front-row seat to view a red-necked phalarope [a small migratory wading bird],” says Rick Volk, chief operator. Birders find the plant unique for viewing for lack of trees and brush. The berm around the ponds provides an excellent

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