Municipal wastewater often contains various debris flushed into the sewer system. Although only items specifically labeled as flushable or sewer-safe should be disposed of down the drain, wastewater typically includes non-degradable materials like disposable wipes used for cleaning, as well as health and hygiene products. These items can cause blockages in sewer systems, including pumps that move wastewater to the treatment plant.

Pump stations are equipped with screens made of parallel bars that capture larger debris, but these screens are not always effective, allowing some debris to pass through. They are also labor-intensive, requiring manual cleaning by operators. To address this, the Moosic Pump Station No. 1 project installed a grinder in the incoming flow channel. This grinder breaks down debris into small particles, reducing the risk of blockages in the pumps and downstream sewer system.

Completed: November 2018.

Construction Cost: $58,132