The characteristics of forest product industry wastewaters are unique, requiring specialized efforts to characterize their constituents and treatability. These characteristics are assessed within the context of mill wastewater unit operations and used to inform management decisions. Information needs are on-going and driven by updated regulatory targets, mill process changes, and WWTP optimization objectives, among others.
Wastewater Characterization
EPA establishes national, technology-based regulations, known as effluent limitations guidelines (ELGs), for direct dischargers and pretreatment standards for indirect dischargers to control discharges of pollutants in effluents from certain industrial source categories. The pulp and paper industry and timber processing industry are two of about 60 such categories. EPA reviews…
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Nutrients and nutrient-related pollution are a leading cause of impairments to US waters, and environmental agencies are very actively engaged in designing management programs to address these impairments.
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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance(s) (PFAS) are a group of chemicals used to manufacture a wide variety of products with non-stick or moisture- and stain-resistant surfaces, such as certain paper products, water-resistant clothing, and cookware. They are also used in some cleaning products, paints, and firefighting foams. Regulatory and research interest…
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EPA regulates stormwater discharges in a number of ways, most notably through use of NPDES General Permits. These permits obligate dischargers involved in industrial operations and construction activities to implement certain controls to mitigate contamination of stormwater that contacts active sites. NCASI maintains resources to assist member companies in managing…
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The North American forest products industry is a large user of freshwater but consumes comparatively little of the water it uses. Further, the reliance of the industry on forest-derived raw materials and the use of surface water as a receiver for treated effluents represent extensions of its footprint with regard…
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This support document is organized around common questions NCASI has received from its members when applying for NPDES permit renewals and/or responding to draft permits issued by regulatory agencies.
Learn MoreThis video training series, which is a part of NCASI’s Technical Studies and Support Program, is intended to provide concise informational summaries of relevant wastewater topics to Members involved in the design, evaluation, and daily operation of Forest Product Industry wastewater treatment facilities.
Learn MoreThis guidance document contains information useful for collection of samples intended for analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).
Learn MorePresentations provided updates on Human Health Water Quality Criteria, Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS), Microplastics, TSCA Chemical Data Reporting.
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