Metro Water Recovery, established in 1961, is the largest wastewater treatment provider in the Rocky Mountain West. Operating within an 817-square-mile area, the organization serves over 2.2 million residents across 65 cities and sanitation districts in and around Denver, Colorado. Their mission centers on protecting public health and the environment through the cleaning of water and the recovery of valuable resources, ensuring treated water is suitable for agriculture, aquatic ecosystems, recreation, and public water supply.
Metro Water Recovery operates three main facilities: the Robert W. Hite Treatment Facility, the Northern Treatment Plant, and the METROGRO Farm. Together, these facilities work to uphold the highest quality of wastewater treatment services while also promoting sustainability and renewable energy generation. An innovative part of their operations includes the Thermal Energy Recovery process, which harnesses the warmth from wastewater pipelines to power homes and businesses.
The organization emphasizes environmental stewardship and actively engages in community education initiatives, helping local residents understand the wastewater treatment process and advocate for proper waste disposal practices. Their commitment extends to reducing hazardous waste through various programs, including partnerships aimed at minimizing dental amalgam waste and ensuring industrial compliance with environmental regulations.
Guided by a Board of Directors, Metro schedules regular Board and Committee meetings, providing transparency through published agendas and minutes. They maintain an active role in their communities, supporting local non-profits and addressing pressing environmental issues like PFAS contamination and improper waste disposal. Metro Water Recovery's strategic plan is focused on maintaining public health, enhancing infrastructure, and achieving sustainable growth for future generations.
