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General public treatment plant tours

Learn how wastewater can be recycled into reusable water, energy, and nutrients for plants and soil. Tours encourage visitors to think about responsible water use, the products they use, and how everyday choices can help protect our water.

Wastewater tours focus on the following topics:

  • Water cycle and nutrient cycle
  • Wastewater treatment and human health
  • Human impacts to water systems
  • Pollution prevention and water conservation

Tours for:

Individuals, families, and small community groups

Individuals, families, and community groups of fewer than 10 people should register for an upcoming community treatment plant tour. Visit the events page for a list of upcoming community tour opportunities and information about registration.

This is also the best option for home school groups, scout troops, and other non-school-affiliated groups of children ages nine and over.

University classes, professional groups, and larger community groups

Tours are available for groups of 10–25 people. Dates and times vary based on staff availability.

Sign up for a Brightwater or South Plant tour here

Tours of Carnation, Vashon, and West Point are limited. Please email us directly to request a tour.

Questions?

Cost Free
Tour length 2 hours (includes 30-minute introduction and walking tour) 
Age minimum 9
Group size 10–25 people 
 Pre-registration Required for all groups, 2–4 weeks in advance 
 Dress code Tours take place outside and in an industrial setting; all visitors must dress appropriately and wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. 
Accessibility  For general tours, participants must be able to walk and travel up and down multiple levels of stairs. Accessible tours and accommodations are available with advance notice. 
Other Tour groups must start and end the tour together; it is not possible to leave early. 
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