Village of Monroe enhances sewer monitoring with new air quality meter

The Orange County Sewer District No. 1 Advisory Committee convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss ongoing monitoring and improvements to the sewer system, focusing on air quality and gas emissions. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to maintaining safety standards and addressing potential environmental concerns.

A key topic was the weekly report detailing ambient air temperatures and hydrogen sulfide levels within the sewer system. Officials confirmed that current measurements are well within safety standards, alleviating concerns about public health risks. The committee emphasized the importance of sealing manholes and venting areas to minimize gas emissions, which can be corrosive to the sewer infrastructure.

The discussion also included plans to enhance monitoring capabilities with the introduction of a new meter that can detect lower concentrations of gases, down to 0.01 parts per million. This upgrade is expected to provide more accurate readings and improve the district's ability to manage air quality effectively.

Committee members noted the differences in treatment methods used by neighboring municipalities, specifically comparing oxygenation systems to chlorine treatments. The committee is advocating for the adoption of oxygenation systems, which have proven to be more effective in reducing bacterial activity and gas emissions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to managing sewer system integrity and air quality, with ongoing efforts to implement advanced technology and treatment methods. The committee plans to continue monitoring and reporting on these issues to ensure the safety and efficiency of the sewer system in Orange County.