Annapolis, MD (June 3, 2025) – The Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works Bureau of Utility Operations received National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) Peak Performance Awards for perfect National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) permit compliance at all seven of the County’s Water Reclamation Facilities (WRF).
“Our water reclamation facilities are often out of sight, but the work happening inside them is absolutely essential to protecting public health and the environment,” said County Executive Steuart Pittman. “This recognition reflects the extraordinary professionalism of the operators, engineers, and staff who run these plants with precision and pride. Anne Arundel County is cleaner, safer, and more resilient because of their work.”
The Annapolis, Broadneck, Broadwater and Cox Creek WRFs each earned NACWA Peak Performance Platinum Awards, which honor treatment plants that have maintained perfect compliance without any NPDES permit violations for at least five consecutive calendar years.
The Broadwater WRF has achieved an impressive milestone of 28 consecutive years of 100% NPDES permit compliance, while the Annapolis WRF celebrates its ninth consecutive award. The Broadneck and Cox Creek facilities mark eight and seven consecutive years, respectively, of flawless performance.
“We are proud to recognize the exceptional efforts of our wastewater treatment operators, plant managers, maintenance staff, and engineers,” stated DPW Director Karen Henry. “The commitment to high standards, strong work ethic, innovative solutions, and dedication demonstrated by these public servants significantly enhances public safety and provides critical protection for our environment.”
The Maryland City, Patuxent and Piney Orchard treatment plants received Gold Awards for their remarkable record of perfect permit compliance throughout the entire calendar year.