Journey of Water: The Hudson School's Environmental Science Class Explores Hoboken's NHSA’s Treatment Facility for a Sustainable Future

On a sunny day in early spring, the staff at the NHSA facility were delighted to host a group of curious and engaged middle school students from the nearby Hudson School. Led by their environmental science teacher, Brian Dellett, the students were eager to learn about the process of water treatment and the various systems involved in providing clean, safe drinking water to their community.

The tour began with an overview of "where our water comes from," including what percentage of earth’s water is available and suitable for humans such as for drinking and cooking. Students learned about the importance of protecting these sources from pollution and contamination, as well as the challenges of managing water resources.

Next, the group was introduced to the water treatment process itself, which involves a series of mechanical, chemical, and biological treatments to remove contaminants and pathogens from the water. The students were fascinated to learn about the different types of filtration and disinfection methods used in the treatment process and the important role that monitoring and testing play in ensuring the safety and quality of the finished product.

The students were also introduced to the concept of combined sewer systems and CSOs (combined sewer overflows), which can occur during heavy rainfall and result in untreated sewage being discharged into local waterways.

Throughout the tour, the students were engaged and curious, asking thoughtful questions about the facility's day-to-day operations and the most unusual or surprising things that staff had encountered in the tanks. The staff was impressed by the student’s level of interest and enthusiasm, and the visit provided a valuable opportunity for them to learn more about the critical role that water treatment plays in ensuring the health and well-being of their community.

Overall, the visit by the Hudson School's environmental science class was a great success, and the staff at the NHSA treatment facility were thrilled to have the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise with the next generation of environmental leaders. By educating young people about the importance of clean water and sustainable water management practices, we can help to ensure a healthier and more resilient future for us all.