HomeMy WebLinkAboutNC0021491_NOV-2020-LV-0702_20201021October 21, 2020
Lon T. Snider, Regional Supervisor
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Winston-Salem Regional Office
Division of Water Resources, NCDEQ
Subject: Notice of Violation and Intent to Assess Civil Penalty
Tracking Number: NOV-2020-LV-0702
Permit No. NC0021491
Town of Mocksville
Dutchman Creek WWTP
Davie County
Mr. Snider,
Thank you for allowing Town of Mocksville the opportunity to respond to the Notice of
Violation and assessment of civil penalty issued October 5, 2020; received October 13, 2020.
Below we address the following infractions that occurred during the month of June, 2020.
The Dutchman Creek WWTP experienced an untimely series of mechanical errors requiring
repair over the course of June and July. BOD exceedances ensued in the interim while continued
corrective maintenance was in progress. Incoming solids were consuming abnormal amounts of
oxygen until the aerators could fully resume operation. With all best intentions, we were doing
everything we could to get a handle on the problem. The contactor was temporarily inoperative
due to continued mechanical issues. Public Works replaced the contactor and fuses immediately
upon awareness, within a turnaround time of 24-48 hours.
The contactor caused issues with the blower in the number 3 train, resulting in low DO in the
aeration basin. During the 4th week period, there was a rain event totaling in 3.2 inches over the
course of 4 days. Abnormally high flow resulted in a BOD exceedance and increased solids
throughout the plant.
Removal of solids had been facilitated with Pump and Haul contractors since April 2020. As of
February 2020, the reactivation of the Brakebush Chicken plant increased influent Oil & Grease
and BOD entering the plant. Solids continued to increase over time until Brakebush added their
own pretreatment system as of September 2020.
Due to the flow, high solids, and limited digester space, a new digester is being added to the
system to accommodate for more solids.
We believe that the following errors have been taken seriously by our staff and ameliorated in a
thorough and timely matter. The incidents under review have been noted so that we can best
maintain optimal procedure and avoid future noncompliance. It is always the goal of Town of
Mocksville and Dutchman Creek WWTP to remain in compliance with regulations set forth by
the Division of Water Resources. It is our request that our cooperation and action in these
matters be taken into account by the Division when proceeding with enforcement.
Sincerely,
Town of Mocksville
CC: Lynn Trivette, Town of Mocksville
Robert White, Envirolink
Joshua Powers, Envirolink