Permit Evaluation & Sludge Thickening Design

Weston & Sampson was selected to assist the Town of Hopedale, Massachusetts in optimizing operations at its upgraded wastewater treatment facility (WWTF).

In 2023, our team reviewed effluent data and collaborated with the town, its operators, and MassDEP to negotiate permit limits aligned with actual flow, temperature, and effluent conditions. Concurrently, we evaluated the WWTF’s sludge hauling process, comparing it to gravity and mechanical thickening options. Leveraging regional biosolids management expertise, we recommended a mechanical solution and began designing a system featuring a rotary drum thickener, thickened sludge storage, pumps, and automated controls. This upgrade will allow the town to haul sludge with 5-6% solids content (up from 2-3%) resulting in substantial long-term cost savings. Our multidisciplinary team, including process mechanical, structural, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and instrumentation specialists, is leading the design to ensure efficient, sustainable facility performance and improved biosolids management.