1. EGLE
  2. Water
  3. Wastewater
  4. Surface Water

Great Lakes Water Authority / Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD)

Contact: Steven Eick, Water Resources Division, 248-302-9496

The Great Lakes Water Authority / Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) owns and operates one of the larger wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) in the United States, serving the City of Detroit and 76 suburban communities. The WWTP treats approximately 650 million gallons of wastewater per day on average, making it the largest discharger of treated wastewater to Michigan waters falling under the permitting authority of the EGLE's Water Resources Division. In addition, because this WWTP serves significant combined sewer areas, the ability to reduce, store and treat wet weather flows is critical. Due to the critical importance of the WWTP to 3 million Michiganders relying on the plant and its associated 3,400 miles of sanitary sewer lines and other appurtenances, EGLE has created this web page to allow citizens easy access to various documents and other information relative to WWTP operations and compliance with state law requirements. While this page does not reflect the EGLE's files in their entirety, we hope citizens find the information helpful. Please contact the EGLE Freedom of Information Act Coordinator to seek additional records that may be of interest.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Information

Compliance with State Law Requirements

Key Indicator Reports

Public Engagement

EGLE will be setting up and facilitating meetings with the DWSD staff, neighborhood groups, and other stakeholders to address odor and noise issues at the WWTP. The DWSD has agreed to participate in these meetings. This process is under development, but will involve a series of meetings. If needed, we hope to bring other potential sources of odors in the area into this discussion, and work together with the neighborhood to resolve issues. EGLE believes that more open communication between all the parties involved (the EGLE, the DWSD, other potential sources, residents, concerned groups, and elected officials) can go a long way to help reduce concerns regarding the WWTP.

In addition, annual community meetings will be held that discuss the previous year's compliance status, and the upcoming year's permit requirements.

General Helpful Information