COUNTY News:

No longer just a pipe dream, the new wastewater treatment facility in White Rock is a state-of-the-art site representing a pipeline of success. The public is invited to plunge into a tour of the site, 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, April 8. The tour is free but space is limited. Tickets are available at ladpu.com/tour.

Officially called the White Rock Water Resource Reclamation Facility (WRRF), the new plant went online in 2024. A decade prior, the Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities (DPU) began flushing out a plan to replace the original White Rock Wastewater Treatment Plant, built in 1966.

Proving they know how to handle pressure—just like a well-designed drainage system—the engineering staff at DPU overcame a continual flow of blockages before completing the project. These backups included a steady stream of cost increases, supply chain issues and environmental discharge permit requirements.

Anyone who wants to unclog the answer to “what happens after I flush?” is welcome to reserve a spot for a WRRF tour. DPU schedules tours regularly. All ages are welcome.

The WRRF is in Overlook Park, past the softball fields on the north side of the road. It is across from the dog park. Attendees may park in one of the paved parking lots for the sports fields.