The Municipality of Rhineland has opted to use the same enzyme treatment to de-sludge the Gretna lagoon as it did at the Plum Coulee facility last year.
The biological method, used by Clean Water Pro, utilizes a special formula of beneficial bacteria and enzymes to break down the material.
According to Reeve Don Wiebe, the 20-week process resulted in the sludge being reduced at the Plum Coulee lagoon by 12 to 14 inches.
"We're waiting for the final results, but all indications are that it was quite successful," he explained. "So, we think this may work in the Gretna lagoon because it's sludge level is pretty deep and this enzyme seems to work, so we're going to try it."
Ringing in at $90,000 over three years, Wiebe noted, this treatment process is also a more economical option to extending the life of the Gretna facility.
"Gretna is not growing very quickly. We're struggling to get things going there again. So, when you look at the population projections for Gretna, they're pretty static. So, to plan for a new lagoon doesn't quite fit the bill right now."
It's also a cheaper option over removing the sludge with equipment, noted Wiebe.