Each wastewater facility is provided with a list of about 50 to 60 chemical parameters of concern, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and pyridine sulfur trioxide (PSS), which are considered in every discharge, Hawley said, as well as a list of metals, organic materials, and other concerns that are unique to this wastewater such as radioactive materials.

"Each well has a unique set of parameters based upon the geography of where the wastewater is coming from," Hawley said.

Beginning in 2011, standards for wastewater treatment will be higher in order to better treat dissolved solids, chlorides and sulfates out of this wastewater and bring it down to a maximum level of contaminate in public drinking water, Hawley said.

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