Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What is the primary benefit of maintaining good oxygen levels in a facultative pond?

1. To promote fish populations

2. To enhance compliance with discharge standards

3. To facilitate sedimentation

4. To reduce mosquito breeding

The correct answer is: To enhance compliance with discharge standards

Maintaining good oxygen levels in a facultative pond primarily enhances compliance with discharge standards due to the importance of dissolved oxygen in the treatment processes that occur in these systems. Facultative ponds rely on both aerobic and anaerobic conditions to treat wastewater effectively. Adequate levels of dissolved oxygen support the aerobic microorganisms responsible for breaking down organic matter efficiently. This biological process is crucial for reducing biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS), and other pollutants in the wastewater. When oxygen levels are low, the treatment process may become less effective, leading to higher concentrations of harmful substances in the effluent, which can result in non-compliance with governmental discharge regulations. Effective treatment with sufficient oxygen also promotes the removal of pathogens and nutrient removal, which are essential aspects in meeting environmental standards. While fish populations, sedimentation, and mosquito control can also be influenced by oxygen levels to some extent, their impact is not as directly related to the regulatory compliance emphasis that is crucial for wastewater treatment facilities. Thus, ensuring good oxygen levels is primarily geared towards guaranteeing that the discharge meets all required environmental and health standards.