Proposed Wastewater Facility to Connect Four Minnesota Communities

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The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is seeking public comment on a draft wastewater permit and environmental assessment for a new regional sanitary district that would serve the communities of Goodhue, Wanamingo, Zumbrota, and Pine Island. The proposed project would create a centralized wastewater treatment facility on the edge of Zumbrota, replacing four existing discharge points.

Why it matters

The existing wastewater treatment facilities in these four communities are deteriorating, prompting the need for a more modern, centralized solution. The new regional facility would improve water quality by consolidating discharge into the North Fork of the Zumbro River, while also providing cost savings and operational efficiencies for the participating municipalities.

The details

The proposed wastewater treatment facility would include the construction of new pump stations and connecting pipes for each of the four communities. Construction is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027 and continue through 2029. The facility would be located on public lands.

• The public comment period for the water permit ends on June 1, 2026.
• The public comment period for the environmental assessment worksheet ends on April 30, 2026.

What’s next

The MPCA will review public comments on the draft wastewater permit and environmental assessment worksheet before making a final decision on the proposed project.