The Elk River Wastewater Treatment Plant in Eureka (8.6 mgd design) is a trickling filter-solids contact facility near the mouth of the Elk River, which separates the Northern California mainland from a large estuary that is part of the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge.Directly in front of the plant is a 139-acre restored wetland that is also a part of the refuge. “Our operators are responsible for maintenance and keeping the pathway through the area open,” says Bruce Gehrke, utility operations manager. “The wildlife area was part of our mitigation agreement with the Coastal Commission that allowed the plant to
