Two juveniles are under investigation in connection with a significant fire that broke out at the Sugarloaf Wastewater Treatment Facility in northwest Arkansas. Boone County officials have indicated that criminal charges could potentially be laid, confirming that the blaze occurred in late April and resulted in considerable damage to the plant.

The fire incident also led to a consequential leak of partially treated wastewater into the East Sugarloaf Creek area of Bull Shoals Lake.

Contractor Dies After 20-Foot Fall Into Treatment Plant Tank

A 38-year-old contractor tragically died in an accident at the Ephrata Borough Authority's water treatment plant in Pennsylvania. The incident occurred when the man fell into a 20-foot deep tank at the facility on May 25 and sustained injuries severe enough to require hospitalization.

Despite the medical interventions, the contractor succumbed to his injuries days later.

Des Moines Sewer Residue Celebrated for Its Beauty

Des Moines' iron phosphate sewer residue, also known as vivianite, has been applauded for its aesthetic appeal in a new book titled “Book of Earth” focusing on rare pigments and colors. The unique iron phosphate has been extracted from Des Moines Wastewater Reclamation Authority’s clogged pipes. This distinct form of ochre is said to be the source of at least two pigments.

After years of laboring to eradicate vivianite from its infrastructure, WRA has largely resolved the issue by implementing operational changes involving anaerobic digesters. While vivianite's blackish-blue crystals could potentially be used for crafting jewelry and sold for substantial sums, WRA has opted to retain its small collection for the time being.