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Wastewater Microbiology

Midwest Contract Operations has professionally trained staff with extensive knowledge and experience in wastewater microbiology and consulting. The methods described in the 3rd Edition Manual on the Causes and Control of Activated Sludge Bulking, Foaming, and Other Solids Separation Problems (Jenkins, 2004) are followed in our lab. We have been recognized nationally through multiple agencies and have a proven track record of success.

Importance of Microbiological Analysis

Microbiological analysis of activated sludge systems, lagoons, filters or any biological treatment process is an invaluable tool for troubleshooting and suggesting effective remedial actions for wastewater treatment issues. Most problems identified through microbiological analysis can be corrected by simple operational adjustments, while others may need additional treatment such as chlorination to control or eradicate problem filamentous organisms.

MCO performs microscopic analysis of activated sludge and lagoon systems and provides detailed reports identifying filament(s) and other indicator organisms that are present. This information is then used to give likely causes for the presence of filaments and suggestions for their control.

Microscopic Evaluation Reports include:

  • Evaluation of floc size/strength
  • Dispersed growth abundance
  • Rank of zoogloea bacteria
  • Polysaccharide (reverse India ink stain)
  • Higher life form organism rank and abundance
  • Nitrifying bacteria, polyphosphate accumulating organisms, and other indicator organisms
  • Filamentous bacteria identification/ abundance/ impact on floc structure
  • Treatment recommendations based on evaluation.

MCO Partners with Ryan Hennessy for DNA and Microscopic Analyses

Please refer to his website at rhwastewatermicrobiology.com for more information.

Sample Microbiology