Lynchburg Wastewater Plant Marks Five Years Without a Permit Violation

Lynchburg Water Resources Facility Wins NACWA’s Platinum Peak Performance Award

LYNCHBURG, Va. — Lynchburg's wastewater treatment plant has gone five consecutive years without a single permit violation, earning the facility national recognition for its environmental and regulatory performance.

The Lynchburg Regional Water Resource Recovery Facility received the 2025 Platinum Peak Performance Award from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, placing it among just 180 wastewater treatment plants nationwide to receive Platinum-level recognition for the year.

The designation follows four consecutive years in which the Lynchburg facility received the organization's Gold-level award.

The milestone represents 1,825 consecutive days of perfect permit compliance through the five-year award period at a facility that operates around the clock and treats approximately 12 million gallons of wastewater each day.

“1,825 days—and counting—of perfect permit compliance is an incredible achievement,” Lynchburg Water Resources Director Tim Mitchell said. “It takes focus, commitment, and teamwork every single day.”

Mitchell said the facility maintained that record despite extreme weather, major construction projects and other operational challenges.

12 million Gallons Treated Each Day

The Water Resource Recovery Facility, located on Concord Turnpike, is operated by a team of 43 employees.

In addition to treating about 12 million gallons of wastewater daily, the facility removes approximately 28,000 wet tons of solids annually and conducts more than 32,000 laboratory tests each year. Treated water is ultimately returned to the James River.

“This award is a testament to the hard work our employees put in 24/7 to keep the plant in compliance,” Plant Superintendent Elizabeth Jensen said. “We take our duty as Stewards of the James River seriously and work as a team to maintain the processes, testing, equipment, and facilities.”

The National Association of Clean Water Agencies said its Peak Performance Awards recognize wastewater treatment facilities for their regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship and operational performance.

Lynchburg's facility was formally recognized July 15 during the association's Utility Leadership Conference and 56th Annual Meeting in Cleveland.