Natural Approach: A Wastewater Wetland Experiment

At first glance, the George Shannon wetlands system looks no different than other low-lying marshes. Water birds roost in old oaks and pelicans wade across shallow ponds. But this man-made marsh has another purpose: Its sedges, rushes and other plants are slowly converting effluent-dominated water into drinking water. Learn more about this massive project and how it could signal a change in how we treat water. www.tpomag.com/featured

Overheard Online

“Though made of steel and concrete, your treatment facility might not be as inflexible as it seems. An older facility likely has mothballed or off-line pumps, tanks and mixers that can be put to new uses.”

Operator Solution Center: How to Think Outside the Pipe, www.tpomag.com/featured

Centennial Celebration: Happy 100th, Evanston Water!

In 1870, Evanston, Ill., was a sleepy farming community on the outskirts of Chicago. But then came the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, which pushed many survivors into the community. Combine a growing population with a high risk of fires, cholera epidemics and more, and Evanston knew it had to address its water situation. Learn more about the city’s water plant — and its colorful history — as it celebrates a century of providing clean water. www.tpomag.com/featured

King County Tunes: It’s All Flushing Awesome

With tipping fees steadily increasing, King County, Wash., knew it had to do something to change customer behavior. The resulting wastewater-themed Macklemore parody — This is Flushing Awesome — has quickly become a regional favorite, garnering more than 11,000 views on YouTube. Learn more about King County’s approach and take a look at the video. But be aware: You’ll probably catch yourself humming along in no time. www.tpomag.com/featured