Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

When is green algae growth most likely to contribute to high effluent TSS?

1. Winter

2. Spring

3. Summer

4. Fall

The correct answer is: Summer

Green algae growth is most likely to contribute to high effluent total suspended solids (TSS) during the summer months. This is primarily due to the warmer temperatures and increased sunlight that characterize this season, which foster optimal conditions for algae proliferation. During summer, nutrient levels often rise due to runoff from rainfall and agricultural activities, providing the necessary elements, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, for algal blooms. These blooms can rapidly increase the organic biomass in the water bodies, leading to high concentrations of suspended solids as the algae grow and reproduce. When this algal biomass dies and decays, it can significantly increase TSS in the effluent as treatment facilities struggle to remove both the live and dead algae. Effective treatment processes may need to be adjusted during these months to manage the influx of solid material from algae, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for effluent quality.