REGIONAL— Wastewater treatment plants in Cook, Winton, and at two Iron Range taconite mines have been recognized for consistently meeting state requirements for monitoring, operations, reporting, and maintenance.
The four plants in St. Louis County were among 253 municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants recognized this year for their successful operations in 2023. The two area mines receiving recognition include Northshore and United Taconite’s Fairlane plant. The treatment plants in Cook and Winton are operated by the local city government.
To receive this recognition, facilities must demonstrate consistent compliance with monitoring, operations, and maintenance requirements, must submit accurate, on-time reports to the MPCA, and must employ staff certified by the MPCA in wastewater operations.
“Communities across Minnesota rely on wastewater treatment facilities to stay healthy and well,” said Nicole Blasing, Municipal Division director at MPCA. “Operators at these facilities are critical to protecting and preserving water quality, and the MPCA is deeply grateful for their considerable efforts and service to their community.”
 The MPCA recognizes outstanding wastewater operators each year. Minnesota has approximately 1,600 municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities. A total of 767 facilities, from communities of all sizes, were reviewed, with 253 qualifying for the outstanding operations recognition.