NORTH RIVER CORRESPONDENCE NORTH RIVER CORRESPONDENCE
CLA F SERVICE pn` SYMBOLS
"Is a fast message
WESTERN UN1®� OL=Day Leaser
'eunl<ss its deferred char-
NL=Nighr Letter
ager'ssindicatcd by[he W. P. MARSHALL TELEGRAM R. PR MCFALL L,i,_Inrcrn tional
p ope ym{gI.
CHAIRMAN OF THE HOARD PRESIDENT
® Lever Telegram
The filing time shown in the dateline on domestic telegrams is LOCAL TIME at point of origin.Time of receipt is LOCAL TIMEat point of desti nation
===BB085 NSA137
NS LBA108 ,NL PD=LUBBOCK TEX 26= L" o 0(-,f _u PM 00
SANITATION DEPT=
CITY OF SALEM SALEM MASS=
FOR PURPOSES OF WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH REQUIRE
INFORMATION ON TANNERY WASTES. HAVE ABATEMAN EFFORTS
OF PAST THREE YEARS REQUIRED THEM TO INCREASE
PRETREATMENT OR YOU TO INCREASE SEWER OR OTHER
CHARGES? IF S09 HOW MUCH? ANSWER AND ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION BY MAIL APPRECIATED=
A H MONTGOMERY DEPT OF MIOAGEMENT TEXAS
TECHNOLOGICAL COLLEGE LUBBOCK TEX 79409.
WU1201(112-65) THE COMPANY WILL APPRECIATE SUGGESTIONS FROM ITS PATRONS CONCERNING ITS SERVICE
TEXAS TECHNOLOGICAL COLLEGE .
SCHOOL OF BUSINEss ADMINISTRATION L� ,
LUBBOCK, TEXAS 79409 C�j V E D
DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT OCT 14 1968
CITY
H�ALTI-1 DAY RTy1� Nn
October 9, 1968
Department of Sanitation
City of Salem
Salem, Massachusetts
Gentlemen:
I am attempting to determine the effects of the
Federal Water Quality Standards Act of 1965 on the
treatment of wastes from the leather tanning and finishing
industry. It would be extremely valuable to me if you
would answer the following questions:
1 . Do you treat the wastes of any leather
tanning and finishing industry?
2. If you treat wastes from this type of
industry, have you, as a result of increased
water standards, required that the mills increase
their pre-treatment? Please elaborate.
3. If you treat leather tanning and fin-
ishing industry wastes, have you, as a result of
increased water standards, increased charges or
taxes the mill must pay?
I would also find it Valuable if you can give me the
names and addresses of several large tanning and finishing
industries which discharge their effluent into a stream
rather than to your sewers. Thank you very much for your
assistance.
Sincerely yours,
A. H. 4..tg m�.
Assistant Professor
r+
October 30, 1968
A. H. Montgomery, Jr.
Assistant Professor
Texas Technological College
Department of Management
Lubbock, Texas 79409
Dear Sir:
The North River has its mouth in Salem and Salem Harbor. It comes
from Salem up through Peabody and follows on through other small
communities that will not be a factor in this letter. The cities
of Salem and Peabody have their own sewerage systems which connect
to an intercepting line originating in Peabody, comes down through
Salem and following the course of the North River, and at the
present time emptying into untreated Salem Harbor. The interceptor
is maintained and operated by the South Essex Sewerage District.
TREATMENT
At the Salem-Peabody line the South Essex Sewerage Board has a
grease and grit chamber who's function is of course to remove
solids which are mostly tannery wastes from the intercepting sewer.
Each plant must have a settling basin approved as to size and
efficiency by the State Department of Public Health, Dept. of
Sanitary Engineering.
At the present time this is the only treatment of sewage and
tannery wastes. The South Essex Sewerage Board however, because of
the constant pollution of the North River has requested federal
funds to construct a treatment plant at the Salem Willows and to
build a new large interceptor line from Peabody down to Salem,
the present one being too small to carry other than the minimal
flow resulting in a dumping of thousands of gallons of waste
water into the river at the grease and grit chamber.
As a result of the studies and the federal grant we are hoping
to have within the next 3 years the new line and treatment plant
in operation.
The Health Department's concern here is the disposition of the
resual waste from the treatment plant. We have an opinion that
the only feasible and efficient was is to build as a part of the
plant, an incinerator specifically designed for the purpose.
J.
- 2 -
There are no charges that I know of by the city to the leather
plants other than the regular taxes.
I hope this covers the subject for you.
Very truly yours,
FOR THE BOARD OF HEALTH
JOHN J. TOOMEY, D.S.C.
HEALTH AGENT
JJT:c
July 29, 1968
Councillor George McCabe
227 North Street
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
Dear Councillor:
As per your request 1 reviewed my own experimentation with the
effluent from Eastern Gelatin Company and found that it would
not be efficacious.
To check myself 1 contacted Mr. Don Pottle, an engineer in the
Department of Natural Resources, assigned to the North River.
He also checked the material and concurs with my opinion that
its use could cause an increase in odors rather than a decrease.
Very truly yours,
FOR THE BOARD OF HEALTH
JOHN J. TOOMEY, D.S.C.
Health Agent
T:f
.42an L Z C
May 28, 1968
Salem Oil and Grease Company
60 Grove Street
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
Gentlemen:
Again let me express to you my thanks and appreciation
for your cooperation in helping to control pollution
of the North River.
Let's hope that this time we have it fixed for good.
Very truly yours,
FOR THE BOARD OF HEALTH
JOHN J. TOOMEY, D.S.C.
Health Agent
T:f
CC: Natural Resources Dept. (State)
North River File
N a d�j'7"fF l�ivgN
T H E. 1
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-- CAN YOU STAND
Ao�� r � UMEE
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IF YOU VALUE
YOUR HEALTH
YOU 14ILL
ATTEND A
QMEL, TIN G AT THE
a
SCHOOL
R)ESDAY W3pom
APRIL25
RECEIVED
MAY 241989
41`i Y O SALEM
HEATH DEPARTMENT,
k May !!, NAO
flu Moaoee U TgnW" X. C*UA" REI Salon - NoA t! ca"at
Sada, MeuaclUeUA
Osaa Mayo; cola":
Tit W104AUa 01 e►at" Pottatioa CeatW k" +ttetntty eoa-
daetsd it raaUMV aawty o' tkt M64tk Blvd. aatd UA b/bsGrtEe~.
The ley"*mcion
&gum Ix satin m4lod tour dUe1-&-t-0 as tin
of tk Cewaoamsam. a eomut&a waai 46 4z eoatAanst"a of tha
wit" taatity ataadaeda adopted by " fltvl.9loa. Tia6otleW" 4
a Mt oj, "Ides z&ipat ste+ta dUW eoatslalag p*tW mi
1 - Y 1 p diaas.trA eoae+tth plea on tka ea4As+a4 bawl
ey AI' teaao od Mottfc U"44 d"-
t- Up diRaMA amaett pow oa,tia 2446a 4 bad
appsoatsatstq l000' ap4ttew of Moats sett".,
dt.4hd4ptAp to ND%& uv".
S - ,Lt p4* e{ modetruOwed dlaaet&A on tke
&oatisRty bm& at Gave Sheet, 44e6940v rlu .
to MokA Un".
6yt. Toomey, Salt= aeattk Ageat, &M Mt. Ntteiet.4 C44
ptu"ttv 046V eUataate
oiaeAA Mg. o4 pollatlea sad 4"to
Pteasa attiy WA Weft la stitb o pt1oR to last a, 19690
of tke stmem of tkeoa soaasw o6 POUSUoa.
yoty Vty V@dUo
Tho=U C. Mefthon
W�tcatoe '
ow paw. TTooftgo MeaW Ap"Sol
v
aa+e e� ?am" hese, Sates
' d )5Q-
may 1. 1969
Salese Oil and Grtase Company
60 Gr"* Street
Salem. Maasathusetta
Gcntlawn:
We regret to iafora you that test of ae,+erage, soap and Other amote
material* emsusting from the catface *&tet outlet benaatb the bri"a
at Grove street hat been found to cases from your Pima ,
may we requeat that you take, imediate +steps to relocate this pipe
ao that it caters the sanitary se, er.
Very truly your.,
FOR TIMWARD 07 SLAM
JOMI J. TO Y. D.S.C.
kalth Agent
T/b
ac: Thom* HeMbo a, Director
Dir. of hater pollution Control
sia ,i I TAT 16 N
North River Folder
piny 15, 1968
Mr. E. J. Perron, Jr.
Ward Seven Councillor
20 Grant Road
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
:Dear Sir:
In reply to your request for a report on a meeting between myself and
Mr. Glick of the Dubois Chemical Co. , please be advised that we met in
the Mayor's Office, had a nice visit, and arrangements have been made
for one of the company biologists to make a study of the North River.
A formal recommendation of what the company might recommedd as
treatment will be forwarded to us. We will keep you informed of any
further developments.
Very truly yours,
FOR THE BOARD OF HEALTH
JOHN J. TOOMEY, D.S.C.
Health Agent
T:f
CC: Mayor Collins
y.00NO2^�
Ug of AssadpAutts 91970
s (Offire of toe Gtv (glerh
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19
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CHH X.11
April 302 1968
Dr. John J. Toomey, Health Agent
Broad Street
Salem, Massachusetts
Dear Sirs
At a regular meeting of the City Council held in the Council Chamber on
Thursday, April. 25,1968 the enclosed Order was adopted and approved by the
Mayor on April 29th.
Very truly yours
AJT/hc AUOQ J. TOMY
CITY CLM
q– Form C-10-62402V
`rnraga CI'T'Y OF SALEM
;a
April 25, 196
In City Council -----------19
R3�UEST;J:
That Mayor Collins, City Engineer Neil Mitchell and
City Health Agent, John Toomey arrange a meeting with 11r. M.S. Glick
vrho is vice-president of Dubois ChemicalCo, a division of W.a. Grace
and Co. in reference to the possible elimination of the odors emmitting
from the North P.iver.
I further request that the result of this meeting be made
known to the council, if at all ,possible, by the second meeting in Hay.
E.J. Perron, Jr.
I%lard Seven Councillor
In City Council April. 25, 1968
Adopted
APPROVED BY THE MAYOR on SPR 2 9 19oS �
AU TME J 'PMR-IBI /
ATTEST: CI CLERK
WIGGINS AIRWAYS CALLED:
They can lime
The week of May 20
or
The week of May 27 (they would prefer this week)
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CABLE: BIO/CORTTBBOSSTTO^N
JASON M. CORTELL
192 WORCESTER STREET • ROUTE 9
WELLESLEY HILLS, MASSACHUSETTS 02181
AREA CODE 617 • 235-0=
December 13, 1967
Dr. John J. Toomey, Health Officer
City of Salem
93 Washington Street
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
Re: North River
Dear Dr. Toomey:
Based on our discussions of late last month,
the following is an outline of the services this
office proposes to provide in connection with a
Bio-Engineering Study and Report on the aquatic
conditions of the North River, its estuary, and
its watershed.
Bio-Engineering Study: A scientific study
of the North River, including the physical,
chemical, and biological conditions present
therein.
A. This Study Program includes a complete series
of field and laboratory tests to determine :
1. The nature and possible sources
of the present odor problem.
2. The nature, extent and sources
of sewage pollution flowing into .
the North River.
3. The nature, extent and possible
sources of chemical pollution
flowing into the North River, i.e.
industrial wastes, nutrient sources,
biocides , thermal discharge, oils,
surface drainage.
r
.1
1
RECEIVED
DEC 211961
CITY Or SALEM
kiEAL.t H DEPARTMENT,
Dr. John J. Toomey December 13, 1967
Page Two
4. Ecological status of the North
River estuarine tidal mud
flats, as it relates to the
current odor problem.
5. Water movement studies, including
circulation, diffusion of pollu-
tants, tidal flow, and stream
discharge.
6. The relationship of sedimenta-
tion patterns to odor emissions.
7. Water quality evaluation of the
watershed, including Proctor,
Goldthwait, Strongwater, and
Tapley Brooks.
8. Feasibility studies of the avail-
able modes of corrective action
to abate the odor conditions and
to improve the water quality.
B. Report: From time to time, as may be necessary
during the progress of the proposed Study, the
Biologist will confer with the Board of Health
and review the progress made to that point. A
comprehensive report will be submitted to the
Director on October 30, 1968, covering the
results of the Bio-Engineering Study and in-
cluding appropriate recommendations.
C. Exigency Clause: If, during the overall compre-
hensive study, noxious odor conditions re-occur,
immediate action will be recommended to abate
said conditions . Supervision and participation
in such action will be considered as part of
this program and is so covered by the unit cost
of the Study.
it is understood that the City will make available
all pertinent information, plans, and records which may
be of assistance during the Study. The Biologist will
meet with City, State and Federal personnel to coor-
dinate and evaluate the information available relative
to the Study.
f
RECEEVEI)
11967
Cl i rSALEM
,HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Dr . John J. Toomey December 13, 1967
Page Three
Our fee schedule established for bio-engineering
studies of this nature is $250 . 00 per day. This
represents one field-day unit and covers the cost of
all expenses related to the study including personnel,
boats (AB-125 Aircat airboat) , helicopter surveys ,
field sampling and testing, equipment, laboratory
analyses, and all normal operational expenses. We
estimate that a total of 24 units will be required
to complete the Study which will cover an eight-month
period from March through October. We anticipate the
Bio-Engineering Study to cost approximately Six
Thousand Dollars ($6, 000. 00) .
If at any point during the Study Program, discon-
tinuation is deemed feasible by the Consultant or the
Director, the two parties shall meet and negotiate
proper settlement of the account.
Respectfully submitted,
JAS N M. CORTELL
Consultant Biologist
JMC/hjb
RECEIVECk
uc 21 1967
Cl OF SALEM
kiEALI K DEPARTMENJI
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t�*sfidawstiell to 9taworat arwr�aaraw wsd taary«r)
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lista ms tiirtatt*s awr arsatd awataw tbo foltatwrtss toot*:
t. � ltawtwa�r +,'kwlawtis wwara ! afl�ioww �atltanwaw et �M14t*r aw def tltttlw•iawsaw iota
the South sit" iinrar.
t. that tit* oanflawrr va rt". Vbs t 04 altros" amd **it *%NOW at arsrie" ties `
damps tato 0* *iv*r rap` **Oros* tswwaainy vrat at *to.* is somema frwwws
e ,tawlteot to 3 wwrilliwws Otleaa► +op"dtata vp s tu**u **Minos* owe two +0wtow111
of setas*l vw+tt* Olag into 00 lung. � This bissewit to n"s of vote satsrrtwlw in
the statiwwg.
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6"118 limos` to torr ariwr, wo t►wt sawwwrwtaw tawitoat of ttwo $titin tnkartesty lu
moo. to *oaoottot awttbr #tis%wtd powarso tawsitaart Ot ssoe tw the Stat*
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"so$# w"ieord brad **Iwt" drat am* i autos 6011*0 te*y aastse* Cotstis
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foll"lass as *a 40 rat 40 tr u "tit 4*01 vo tkN wj;1111E ttlat<pit do:it ao ae
tarfawl losfai of as w or I asatlts, [lir wwtr! two tits *twat *Now etats* srrrratlusto
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` THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
F� DEPARTMENT OF THE' ATTORNEY GENERAL
STATE HOUSE O BOSTON 02133
EL.JOT L: RICHARDSON
ATTORNEY GENERAL July 31,. 1067
Mr . Augustine J. Toomey
City Clerk -
City of Salem
Salem, Massachusetts 01570
Dear Mr. Toomey:
On June . 15, 1967, Attorney General Richardson
emote to you with respect to a. petition adopted by the Salem.
City Council requesting an investigation and appropriate legal
action in connection with the pollution of the North River. ,.
The Attorney General has asked the Division of Health, Education
and Welfare to take whatever steps it can to assist in bringing
about a solution to this problem.
Accordingly, we invited John Collins, Director
of the Division of Sanitary Engineering of the Department of Pub-
lic Health and Thomas McMahon, Director of the Division of Water .
F •allution Control of the Water Resources Commission, and their
associates, to a meeting to discuss the situat'ion� Such a meeting
was held on July 26, 1967. Two interrelated problems were discussed;
the pollution of the Uorth R..iv6x, and the Fter ous 'rdor in the vicin-
ity of the river .' ,
With regard to the Odor, we were advised that the.
Cause of the problem is the emission of gasses from mud flats at
law tide. We were also informed that a similar problem in Winthrop
had been controlled by the application of lime to the flats, and
t1.at Salem recently tried unsuccessfully to. lime its flats. Never-
theless, it was suggested that the most effective, short-range means
of 'reducing the odors would be application of lime in greater quan-
tities than the prior attempt. In this connection, the Department
of Public Health stands ready to offer technical advice or super-
vision to the City of Salem. Speed in undertaking such a project
would hopefully bring relief ,to the community during this warm
period when the condition is least bearable.
Mr . Augustine J. Toomey
July 31, 1967
Page 2.
The pollution of the North River is, of course, a major
contributing cause to the odor, ` a,s well as a distinct problem in
itself. Mr . McMahon informed us that total abatement of the pol-
lution will take a few years. ` How-giver, the Division of Water
Pollution Control has establiEheed s compliance schedule for the
construction of the facilities necessary to stop pollution of the
river, and all parties concerned .have agreed to meet the timetable.
Meanwhile, this Depar�ment stands ready to take whatever
a..-:.tion may be appropriate to, iniure that ':hese probleius are resolved
as expeditiously as possible.
Very truly yours,
GEORGE 'R. SPRAGUE
Assistant Attorney General
Division of Health, Education
and Welfare
GRS•JK
Copies: Mr . John Collins
Director of the Division of
Sanitary Engineering
State House
Boston, Massa
Mr . Thomas McMahon
Director of the 'Division of ¢
Water Pollution Control of the
Water Resources �Commission.•
New State office Building,
Boston, Mass.
ve
South Essex Sewerage District
Salem, Massachusetts.
1i City Council August 10, 1967
Rat.. to Cam. on Sewers & 'Waterways �, �
1/E7Q.
MONDAY 10 AU CALLED DICK POWERS - HE 010 NOT ATTEND ANY OF MEETINGS
AUG 21 --- HE WILL CONTACT MARIO TO OCT GILLED IN ON DETAILS
ASKED ME TO CALL BA CK TUESDAY AT 9:30
TUESDAY 9:730 CALLED DICK POWERS - SUMMER STUDENT ANSWERED PHONE
AUG 22 SAYS POWERS IS ON OTHER PHONE AND ASKED ME TO LEAVE
NUMBER - NO RETURN CALL RECEIVED
2 PM CALLED DICK POWER - HE IS NOT IN OFFICE - LEFT MESSAGE
FOR HIM TO CALL - NO RETURN CALL RECEIVED
WEDNESDAY
AUG 273 10 AM MARIO BROCHETTI CALLED - SAYS WEATHER IS GOING OUR WAY
WANTED TO KNOW IF TNERE WERE MANY COMPLAINTS ( I HAVE
RECEIVED NONE THIS WEEK) - SAYS EASTMAN GELATIN
.SLURRY HAS BOD OF 121600 (FULL OF WASTE PRODUCTS)
THINKS IT WOULD DO LITTLE GOOD - WOULD TAKE MINIMUM
OF 6 TO 7 GALLONS OR MORE OF SLURRY PER 100 SQ FEET
IN FLATS
HE WILL SE OUT NEXT WEEK AUG 27 TO SEPT I AND CHECK
OUT THE AREA) - MORE OR LESS INDICATES IF WEATHER IS
WITH US (COOLER) TO SWEAT IT OUT REST OF YEAR - I
ASKED FOR LETTER FROM HIM TO OUTLINE PROGRAM FOR FUTURE
BUT DIDNT GET ANYWHERE (HE STATES DR TOOMEY HAS GREAT
KNOWLEDGE OF PROBLEM AND AREAS INVOLVED)
WILL TAKE NO FURTHER ACTION UNTIL WE HEAR FROM
MARIO BROCHETTI - IF LARGE AMOUNT OF COMPLAINTS ARE
RECEIVED HOWEVER I WILL CONTACT HIM AGAIN.
MrA. qt"4z T4At 044
WILLIAM H. BATES :22]Ra.euw. Or Icr[em nlNr.
6rN Ularvici,Mn95n CriussT'15 iNnsWnrcroN.O.C. 20511
' C6��aT l� T ifC 5
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1961
i
:-
`.r Augustine ., . ,'i:romey
City Cleric
City Rall
Saiem, Massachusetts 11970
Dear %us :
With furtner reference to the Salem ':ity Council's interest -in
the lon„-standing Aorth :river pollu4i.o:> oroblem, whichi has nro:Tpt.eri
especially widespread concern in recent weeks, I have maintained almost
�onsta.t contact with federal and state agencies concerr,4ng var1o1'
aspects of the situaticn and possible solutions .
Basically, as you know, virtually any soec;_fic -n0 e still :rust
be initiatea by t..^.e Salem an,! -'or .Fesoe y city governments. cecen'
press a-^counts indicate treat no agreemr:-,t Iias been reached lty the c.wo
cities on the proposed interceptor sewer, said to be a trey t >ward
elimination of the odor-causing wastes presently going into t. _ .dorth
River.
At the same time , it has beer. broiiint to my attention that "sen
�� .�� . lettuce , which, Lam.,old rives on, r�s
,._ti1.._ heroes
and n Lro4enY�jt
as round on the fiats of the river, has become especially prevalent
and is contributing; to ine acrid s.aell whicr: has nromnted more and more
complaints lately. Spokesmen for the Federal- Water Pollution Control
Administration advise me that this sea lettuce” problem cannot be
successfully solved until the phosnherous and nitrogen, caused by the
waiL:s coming down, the river, are first eliminated
To achieve that , as well as the :interceptor sewer, my discussions
conclude that there are two possible pro ects which, if they could be
combined., might be helpful. in achieving our long-sought goal of ending
the odor and 'health hazards of the Aorth River. Both could nave federal
and state funds contributed to underwrite their construction costs .
First of all, I understand that one of the proposed alternate routes
of the Interstate 95 connector from Peabody through Salem to the planned
Mr. Augustine J. Toomey - 2 - July 31, 196
new Salem-Beverly bridge .✓cold run along the North River. If the Salem.
and Peabody city governments nave not already done so, tl:ey may wish t<,
investigate the possibility o` the Stare Fublic Works Department, advancing
its construction timetable in ''.his area and agreeing to combining at least
a major portion of the `iout2 9;; connector with the interceptor so chat
the road would cover tine river, with the sewer main as well as a trunk
for the river water itself running beneath the roadif this construction
work was done as a single project , it is conceivable that the interceptor
sewer, cost share for each of the two cities woul:i be less than if the
interceptor were curstructed separately; and covering the riverbed
would control a big part of the c:ior source..
- The flats below, nn-both-sicic� of- the rail`road'bri,dge;�sti'`t'T_'^ai l '®
need attention, and that is the second possibility which has been raised.
In my discussions with members of the Salem Harbor Development Committee
and others over the past several years , it was pointed out that as the
increasingly-popular small boat business expands , more and more anchorage
areas must be provided. The Army Engineers have a program for the con-
struction of what it calls small navigation projects, which inci.ude
protected anchorage basins and turning basins, as well as major access
channels to the anchorages or locally-provided berthing areas.
Both the Army Engineers and Water Pol.lution Control Administration
people tell me that dredging and thereby clearing away flats such as
those at the mouth of the North River has in many instances remedied
conditions similar to those with which we are here concerned. Therefore ,
it has occurred to me that tiie Salem City government might wish to
consider requesting the Army Engineers to make a study of the ;;orth
River estuary basin with a view toward deepening the channel acid pr, . i-
ding anchorages on both sides of it .
Enclosed is a data sheet on this so-called Section 10; program. If,
after studying it and reaching the belief that such a new anchorage pro-
ject is desirable and that the local city-state 50 percent share of the
cbst�is 'feasible", I wohld-be-please$' to^arr�nge•for someone-from`the--
Army Engineers to come to Salem and go over the idea with the appropriate
officials. Incidentally, I understand, there is a possibility that the
pollution-control aspect of eliminating the contaminated flats would
permit the Federal Water Pollution Control Administration to assist
with the engineering study, something which i would gladly follow, too.
If any of these suggestions are deemed worthy of pursuit, I stand
ready to cooperate .in every way possible.
With warmest personal regards , I am
Sincerely yours ,
William 11. Bates
/as1R
_ _-- v/
CONWFALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS RE C E
�MOI V E D �
DEPARTMENT" OF PUBLIC HEALTH
AND OCT 27 1959
DIVISION OF WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FJE CITY OF
SALEM
EPARTMENTj
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that application has been made. by the Sou+.:h Essex
Sewerage District for approval of the acquisition of land in the City of
Salem for sewage disposal purposes. in response to said application, the
Department of Public Health and the Division of Hater Pollution Control ,
acting under the provisions of Section 6 of Chapter 8:3 of the General Laws,
will hold a public hearing in the office of the Director of the Dids€on
of Environmental Health, Room 320, 600 Washington Street;, Boston, Massachusetts
on November 14, 1969 at 10:00 A.M.
The plan showing th^ land to be acquired is titled:
SOUTH ESSEX SEWERAGE DISTRICT
PROPOSED SITE
FOR.
SEidAGE TREATMENT PL".t T
SALEM., ASS.
Scale 1" = 110' Sept. 1969
Kpies K _'`e plans are on file and may be seen it the South Essex se-w?rage
&J'strInif Office, 50 Fort Avenue, Salem, the Diyision of Eo iCormental Health.
600 V shing';ah Street, Bision. Massachusetts, and the Division of Water
jl%Lion Control , 100 Cam ridge. Street., Boston, Massachusetts.
ey orcin of the Departmen? of Public Health and the Division of Hater
Pollition Control .
&'sfred L. Frecheth, M.D. , Commissioner
Department of Public Health
Thomas C. McHahun, Director
Division of Water Pollution Control
a
Flue Gas Solves Lime Waste
Treatment Problems
By M. D. GIVEN
Chief Chemist, Eastman Gelatine Corp.
Reprinted from POWER
for:
Eastman Gelatine Corp., Peabody, Mass.
J
NC emical Construction Corp., 525 W. 43rd St., New York 36, N. Y.
Pease, Anthony Equipment Co., 29 Grey Birch Terrace
Newtonville 60, Mass.
- TT�,
Q{t� `~ 1 :USS � 't � kGSfYtx r�
kl. ¢ -t t5{ r4Ykq
j
S
�rk�.as I
K;
x
Fig. 1. Lime waste treatment plant of Eastman Gelatin Corp. Fig. 2. Primary settling tank, 90-ft dia, receives effluent
YY Y YY YY ....h...... . Y:: YYYYY YY YYY................Y Y YY Y YY :Y YY................. Y Y................................Y YY Y YY Y Y Y 50 ft by 12 to 15 it deep (bottom
Editor's Note: POWER ENGINEER oped at considerable expenditure of sloped longitudinally). Flue gas was -
ING is pleased to be able to present time and money,but the Eastman Gel. = distributed to the liquid in this basin
to its readers this unusual work on a atine Corp. regards publication of € by a gridwork of piping ending in
problem which, so far as we know, these data to be in the nature of a pub
• several hundred 1-in. by 9-in. cones
has not previously received attention lic service;it is their hope that others pointing downward, at a depthof
in the technical'press:There appears with similar problems may profit by approximately seven feet. Flue gas
to benoexisting literature on either their experience. was taken directly from our power
the flue-gas method of precipitating For those interested in the nature house stack and pumped by a 960-
= heavy lime wastes or on the closely. of the studies that led to the successful efm positive pressure blower through
related problem of scrubbing Sue application of this lime treatment = a 12-in.steel pipe to the basin header.
gas with soda ash to remove both fly system, there is included a special Necessity for removing fly ash and
ash and corrosive sulfur compounds section that describes details of the = corrosives from the flue gas was not
simultaneously. pilot plant experiments that preceded recognized at this time so no means
The methods by which these prob- construction of the full-scale facili- = for their removal were provided.
lems were solved have been devel. ties at the company's Peabody plant. = Furthermore, no way for continuous
removal of accumulated carbonate
nnwiiminnnnnnnnninninnnnnnnninnnnnnnninnnnnnninninnnnnnnnnnYnnnnnnnnnnnnnninnmm�ununnnuninninninmm�nnnnmm�inni� slurry was provided and consequently
the basin had to be shut down peri-
odically while accumulated sludges
were removed with a bucket crane.
By present standards, this equip-
ment was crude, but for all its de-
fects it did remove a considerable
percentage of the lime from our
Flue Gas Solves Lime Waste sewage outfall. It was kept in opera-
tion intermittently from 1931 to
Treatment Problems increased
pressure from local authorities
increased as loads in sewer mains
increased and it was recognized by
t , the Company that there was a real
s` need to prevent the plugging of
By M. D. GIVEN* by Eastman Gelatine Corp. .(then sewer mains with lime encrustations.
American Glue Co.); at that time, It was then decided, if it were shown
DISPOSAL OF large quantities of a large primary settling basin was to be practicable, to build a com-
heavy .lime wastes has always built to remove most suspended pletely new lime removal. plant,
posed serious problems to the gelatin solids from the wastes. Operation of which it was hoped would completely
and glue and tanning industries. this basin did improve considerably remove all lime. from our wastes
Where such waste liquids are dis- the quality of our waste outfall, but Prior to their discharge to city mains.
charged to closed sewer mains, en- it was soon evident that this was Cost of the proposed plant was,
crustations-build up in pipes with only a partial solution of the problem, of course, a consideration since it
consequent reductions in their load- In 1929, it was suggested to us by . was likely to be large. Also, little-or
carrying capacities. The encrusted the South Essex Sewage District lab- no data in the literature existed due
material is extremely difficult to re- oratory that running flue gas from to the novelty of this process. We
move, and when lines are loaded to our power house stack into the efffu- had accumulated rather complete
capacity, results are easily imagined. ants from our primary settler.might data on the primary settling of the
If wastes are discharged to openprecipitate most of the remaining wastes, but many of the variables in-
rivers or streams, pollution is likely lime in the form of calcium carbon- volved in carbonating and final set-
to result. In either case, authorities, ate. Laboratory experiments indi- tling remained unresolved or ob-
local or otherwise, are apt to insist cated that the process was chemically scure. With these things in mind, we
on some sort of treatment of the sound, and in 1931 we built our first felt that it would be wise to build
wastes prior to their discharge. large-scale plant for carbonating lime and operate a pilot plant before pro-
The serious aspects of this prob- wastes. It consistedprincipally of a -Chief Chemist, Eastman Gelatine
lem were recognized as early as 1923 rectangular concrete basin 100 ft by Corp.
ceeding to full-scale building. The dicates each important piece of equip- basin is rectangular, 40 by 100 it,
pilot plant was completed in Feb-r..-.ment and its function. and has an average depth of 10 it
ruary, 1946, and from that time (Fig. 3). It is divided longitudinally
until April; 1946, we investigated all((Fig.
Primary Settling Basin: This is a by a wall into two sections each ap-
known variables in the process. Acular-conerete basin 90 ft in diam- proximately 20=ft wide. A chain
description of equipment used andr with an 11-ft average depth scraper conveys accumulations of
operations followed in the pilot plant 2). A slowly moving rake near slurry continuously to a sump at the
are described in the accompanyinge bottom moves accumulated low end. The sump is pumped out
special section. rry to the center, whence it is re- intermittently. Capacity of double
As a result of our pilot plant studyved by intermittent pumping. basin is 300,000 U.S.gal., and reten of each of the known process varia- pacity is 525,000 U. S. gal; reten- tion time is 7.2 hr at average flow of
bles, sufficient'data was obtained ton time is 12.6 hr at an average 694 gpm.
calculate required sizes and capacitiesw of 694 gpm. Flue gas is introduced into the
of full-scale basins and other equip- basin by a 12-in. steel header pipe
ment. The flow diagram in Fig. 6 in- Ca—rebonating Basin: This concrete . to a gridwork of pipes ending in
.�.
i
BEFORE BEGINNING the construction of facilities to pu- indicated that our waste liquids, after primary settling, would
rify the heavy lime wastes from their manufacturing opera- assay: 500 to 3000 ppm Ca(OH)s, with an average of 1800
tions, Eastman Gelatine Corp., Peabody, Mass., built a pilot ppm.
plant to obtain data on the unique treatment process that was Since lime is soluble in water from 1850 ppm at 0 C to 1570
contemplated.Following is a description of the equipment and ppm at 26 C, it might be expected that efficient primary
methods used in the operation of the pilot plant, together settling would give effluents approximating these figures at
with a summation of the results that enabled full-scale facili- similar temperatures. Due to the gelatin process, however,
ties to be constructed without trial-and-error procedures. there are appreciable amounts of hair extract, mucins, lime
soaps,and other organic materials present in our waste liquids.
Equipment and Operations As a result, some of the particles of lime remain suspended in
Our pilot plant consisted principally of two 2000-gal. cylin- the wastes even with efficient settling apparatus and with
drical wooden tanks 6 ft in dia by 10 ft deep,so arranged that retention times up to 12 hours. A 500,000 gal. basin is a size-
metered flue gas could be introducedinto one tank by means able piece of equipment, and our experiments led us to doubt
of a gridwork of pipes and cones.Measured quantities.of waste whether increasing the size and retention time further would
liquids (effluent from the existing primary settler) were give effluents sufficiently_bettertojustify the large increase
pumped to this carbonating tank where they were processed in cost. We decided, therefore,to proceed on the basis of a
and then run by gravity to the second tank for sedimentation. 500,000-gal.-primary basin yielding effluents about as indi-
By means of this equipment and through use of meters at sated in the preceding paragraph.
appropriate places, we obtained fairly complete data on the
following variables: Flue-Gas Required
Many trial runs were made in the pilot equipment—batch-
1. Quantities of waste liquids to be treated wise at first,and later,on a continuous flow basis.All variables
2. Concentrations of lime in liquids were carefully checked during these operations until we felt
3. Quantity of flue gas required satisfied that we had the answers to all phases of the earbonat-
4. Size of equipment necessary for full-scale operations ing and final settling operations. Turbulence, for example,
5. Gas absorbing efficiency of the apparatus must be sufficient for thorough mixing of gas and liquid,but
6. pH control Ito prevent over-carbonation and re-solution) must also be held in bounds to prevent splashing over. The
7. Quantities and nature of slurries formed .liquids were found liable to foam badly at pH levels above 9.0,
but when controlled at pH 7.0 to 8.5,tendency to foam forma-
Quantities of Waste Liquids to be Treated tion is slight. During the experimental runs,liquid levels were
Using flow meters and other suitable devices, we measured maintained one foot below the top rim of the carbonatingg
the quantities of wastes contributed by each of several depart- tank. Finally, we arrived at a flow rate which satisfied all
ments. The data was collected over a considerable length of conditions of mixing, turbulence, splashing, and tendency
time to allow for hourly,daily or seasonal fluctuations in flow. towards foaming and, at the same time, maintained pH and
A summary of the data follows: alkalinity at proper levels. A summary of all data and meas-
Period 7 A.M.to 3 P.M. 3 P.M,to 11 P.M. 11 P.M.to 7 A.M. rements made at this optimum flow rate follows:
Quantity 470,850 gal. 274,100 gal. 274,100 gal. Cylindrical wood tank 9 ft 5 in.high by 6 ft dia.,Inside dimensions
Flow Rate 981 gpm. 571 gpm. 571 gpm.
Liquid outlet: 1 N below top rim of tank
It will be noted that there was a considerable range,of Gas cones.Four cones provided for 28.27 sq It of liquid surface,or,one
quantities and flow rates for the three eight-hour periods into cone for each 7.07 sq If of liquid surface. Bottom of canes 5 it 7 in.
which we divided the day. below liquid level
Stated briefly, it appeared that after primary settling we Useful volume of tank: 1700 U.S.gal.
should have approximately 1 mgd of waste-liquid with dis- Optimum liquid flow:4.6 gpm.of wastes containing 2000 ppm lime
tribution of flow as shown above. Flue gas(12 per cora COs); 2.75 psis and 70F. 400 cu a/hr required
to maintain pH 8.3,or zero alkalinity,at optimum liquid flow
Lime Concentrations
Pilot plant data, plus figures accumulated through several Before converting this pilot data for gas required to full
years of operating our first large-scale lime removal plant, scale requirements, let us fust list the expected quantities,
cones about 7 ft belowliquid level. compressed air mixes the two sample Two 1000-cfm positive pressure blow-
�streams thoroughly before the liquid ers were originally provided for mov-
Lthis
al Settling Basin: Similar in :is passed to a set of flow-type pH ing flue gas through the system.
ruction to the primary basin, electrodes. pH measurements are After several years of operation,
nit is 60 ft in diameter with an transmitted through an amplifier to however, maintenance, repairs, and
ge depth of 11 ft. a controller which in turn actuates replacement costs were so high that
pacity is 233,000 gal.;retention an air-operated valve that releases the blowers were replaced with a
is5.6 hr at average flow of 694 flue gas to atmosphere when not re- steam ejector of similar capacity
I quired. With this arrangement, it is (Mg. 4). The ejector is rated at:
possible to control pH of the effluent 2460 cfm.at 27.7 in. Hg abs,and 125 F
Control Equipment: Sampling from the carbonating basin to within Suction pressure 27.7 in.Hg abs.
line takes waste liquid from each plus or minus 0.5 pH units of a pre- "temperature 125 F
side of the carbonating basin to a determined set point. Discharge pressure 5.prig
small box in a nearby building. The Steam 11 225 psig,575 F
box is baffled and a small stream of Flue Gas Pumping Equipment: The ejector has now been in con-
,
Fig.3.Concrete carbonation tank where
flue gases are introduced into effluent
" by cones a bout 7 ft b ene ath top surf ace.
Lime inthe effluent is precipitated in
the form of calcium carbonate; a chain fxv t
scraper moves deposited sludge to sump 8=* � � - FE ,�: -.. "' "- • . 'x "
a
flow rates and concentrations of lime for our waste liquids: with four hours retention time would require a capacity of
Average Liquid flow: 1 mild,or 694 gpm - 167,000 U.S.gal.,but because of the uncertainties mentioned
Maximum Liquid Plow:981 gpm - above we decided upon a tank having dimensions and capacity
Maximum lime concentration:3000 ppm Ca(OH)2 as follows:
Pilot temperature and pressure of flue gas:70 F,2.75 psig Dimensions:Circular,60 ft dia by 11-ft average depth
We found that a liquid flow of 4.6 gpm containing 2000 Capacity`31,097 cu H,or 233,228 U.S.gal.
ppm Ca(OH)2 required 400 eu ft/hr of 12 per cent flue gas to Retention time:approximately 5.6 hours.
maintain zero alkalinity. If we project this data to full-scale Gas-Absorbing Efficiency
requirements using maximum flow rate and concentration, we Flue gas was introduced into our first crude carbonating
find: basins by means of cones suspended on iron pipes at a depth
400 X 981 X 3000_ 2132.6 cfm 12 per cent CO2 flue gas at 70 F of about seven feet. Several years of usage taught us that this
4.6 X 2000 X 60 and 2.75 prig are required. method, while perhaps not beautiful, did a"good lob of gas
distribution and had few defects. We were never bothered by
Temperatures and pressures of.the flue gas in the full-scale clogging of the cones, although occasionally a few of them
equipment differed somewhat from those used in the pilot broke loose and dropped to the bottom of the basin.
experiments but not enough to cause concern over the ac- Other methods were considered,such as passing gas through
curacy of our estimate.However, considerations of equipment ceramic plates to break up the gas flow into very small bubbles
size and cost,as well as some doubts about ranges of flow and prior to mixing with the liquid. This could possibly improve
concentration of lime, finally led us to compromise on 2000 the absorption of gas by the liquid but has never been tried
cfm of flue gas, conditions of temperature and pressure as here because we feared that the small pores through which the
above, as probably sufficient for the job. gas must pass would easily become clogged with solids. We
finally decided to proceed using the pipe and cone distributing
Basin Sixes for Pull-Scale Operation system; we are still using it today.
Carbonating Basin. Projecting the previous data to full- After the pilot experiments, we had sufficient data to cal-
scale by proportion, we find that the proper capacity of the culate the efficiency of our system in absorbing CO2 from the
carbonating basin should be: flue gas supplied to it. The basic reaction for the process may
1700 X 694 be written thus:
4.6 = 256,700 gal.for average flow of 694 gpm,or, 74.09 44
1700 X 981 Cc(C)H)2+COs= CoCC,+H2O -
4.6 = 362,540 gal.for maximum flow of 981 gpm 7.57 x
Solving: x = 4.5 grams CO2 theoretically necessary to neu-
Again, considerations of size and cost of equipment, as well tralize 1 gal. lime waste containing 2000 ppm, or 7.57 grams
as probable maximum ranges of flow and lime concentration, Ca(OH)x_ Our pilot experiments showed: 2000/1700, or 1.17
led us to compromise on a tank: cu ft of 12 per cent flue gas at 70 F and 2.75 psig (equivalent
Dimensions:40 ft by 100 ft by 10-ft average depth to 8.94 grams CO2) actually required to neutralize 1 gal. of
Capacity:40,000 cu ft,or 300,000 U.S.gal. waste containing 7.57 grams Ca(OH)2-
Retention time:approximately 7.2 hours. Therefore, the weight of COs theoretically required to neu-
tralize a unit weight of lime, divided by the weight of CO,
Final Settling Bastin.Time did not permit our carrying pilot actually required by our apparatus, equals the efficiency of
experiments to a complete conclusion for suspended solids in the apparatus in absorbing UOz from the gas,thus:4.5/8.94 =
the effluents. We did, however, have data which indicated 50,3 per cent efficiency.
that, operating at 4.6 gpm, and with tanks used in our pilot
experiments, approximately 90 per cent of the solids carried pH Control
over from the carbonating tank would settle out in the final During the course of our pilot experiments, we investigated
tank in four hours. This applied to liquids initially containing the relationship between pH and alkalinity of the waste
only 2000 ppm of lime and the effects of increasing initial liquids while carbonation was in progress. A portable pH
concentrations to 3000 ppm was not known.A tank for 1 mgd meter with glass electrode was used for pH measurements,
tinuous service for over a year. To rectly through the blowers to obtain pair and replacement costs it was
date no repairs have been required the pressure necessary for the appli- imperative that something be, done
and the ejector is still delivering it's cation. Necessity for removing fly quickly. We had little success with
rated capacity. The ejector has ash and corrosives was not imme- a search of the literature, but even-
proven definitely superior to positive diately recognized. Very soon, how- tually Chemical Construction Co.,
pressure blowers for this application. ever, corrosion-erosion showed up in aided by Pease,Anthony Equipment
It is only fair, however,to point out the form of a hole eaten through a Co. and our engineering staff, de-
that had we originally placed the 12-in. mild steel elbow at a point signed and built a scrubber which we
blowers more advantageously, a dif- where condensates from the gas could hoped would remove fly ash and cor-
ferent conclusion might well have collect in some quantity. In addition, rosives su`ficiently to permit flow of
been reached. examination of moving parts of the gas but with damage to pipe-lines,
blowers revealed that they too were blowers;etc.,reduced to a reasonable
Flue Gas Scrubbing Equipment: being worn and corroded by fly ash minimum. Principal parts of the
Flue gas was at fust drawn from our and sulfur compounds in conden- scrubber, e.g., venturis and cyclone-
power house stack and passed di- sates. To avoid excessively high re- separator, were fabricated for us by
X't
4v
i
I
'"
dAkt
UUNDEfty..
A
} FEED
y
w �' CEMENT GROUTING IN CORNER r ` 3ETtiNG '¢
Fig. 4. Steam ejector which replaced original installation "ei „
of two 1000-cfm positive pressure blowers does good lob `pi j{ *'r p m�e �-
and alkalinity was determined by titration of suitable samples .I,, a+
with standard acid using phenolphthalein indicator. Resultsp . + '.„.
of one such experiment are shown in the graph.
This graph shows how the relationship looks as carbonation
proceeds from 2000 ppm Ca(OH)2 downward to zero alk,
linity. As expected, zero alkalinity was found to occur at4?k"'` yv 1
approximately pH 8.3.At pH 9.6,alkalinity has been reduced 4 "'i ,'"` �, , ...tJl,'�r Too rquq
to 76 ppm Ca(OH)y, the maximum permitted by our present t$} ,;.++ ,` '1'v " �' ' r"€iit
sewage laws. Slope of the curve suggested that it should be
possible to devise some means for control of carbonation by
controlling pH in the carbonating basin. .e- ti s x
Neutral calcium carbonate is soluble only to the extent of + t +, t
,
about 14 ppm at pH 8.3, but 200 or more ppm are soluble at . £ x,
lower pH levels. Operating withoat pH control would there- h,v. ,.�" t,'t' +, n
� t t:AGF.OW 3ft!`11faNa gGNE, .
fore make re-solution of part of the neutral carbonate a cer *.� n
tainty at times when more gas than necessary was supplied
to the basin. This would permit considerable lime in the
of bicarbonate to pass to the sewers.A rise in pH downstream, Oraivsnslrom Ceemrcl 4ariNar s HaNasoai
either through loss of COs from the wastes, or by addition of
more alkali, would result in more neutral carbonate precipi- Fig.5,Drawing of a typical Callow cone shows how scrubber
tating out on the pipe, and of course this is the•very thing return enters at top center; liquid returns to constant-level
we are trying to prevent. make-up box,flue-dust slurry is siphoned out bottom to sewer
Our solution to this problem wasinstallation of a good
recorder-controller and flow-type pH electrodes, with am-
plifier, In pilot connected to sampling lines from the carbonating basin. some carbonate settled in the t experiments
tank in spite of
A portable pH meter and hand operation of gas control valves g p
was used to advantage to locate optimum points for sampling. the considerable turbulence, while..the balance passed on to
The controller was connected to an air-operated valve so that the final settling tank. No determination of distribution be-
any excess of flue-gas over actual requirements would be tween the two was made but we did note, that of the solids
exhausted to atmosphere.The system worked out well,.gg�ivingg passed on to the final tank and at reasonable flow rates,some
control to about plus or minus 0.6 pH units at a selected 90 per cent settled out in four hours. Time did not permit
control point. . a complete investigation of the nature and quantity of slurry
As an extra dividend,by blowing excess gas to atmosphere, resulting from the precipitation but we did make an estimate
our attention was called to the fact that there were long peri- based on data available at the time.We have shown expected
ods when less than full flow of flue pas were required.By care- quantity and lime concentration of waste liquid to average
ful scheduling of gas flow during night hours and over week- 1 rel and 1800 ppm Ca( r the
preci these figures and we
ends, we.were able to maintain a sufficient flow of gas for euming a density of 1.0 for the preappElated carbonate, we'
operating, and also obtain.a worthwhile saving in power. should expect to have 16,021 lb Ca(OH)s/24 hr, or 20,290
III CaCOs/24 hr. This data is summarized as follows: Esti-
Mature of Slurries mated (approximately):-10 tons carbonate per 24 hours, dry
Lime Slurry. Well established data obtained through opera- basis;or,100 tons slurry per 24 hours,10 per cent solids basis.
tion of our first primary settling basin showed that we might Assuming a density of 10 lb/gal. for slurry, we have approxi-
expect slurry from this source averaging about as follows: mately 20,000 gal. of slurry containing 10 per cent solid,
every 24 hours.
110 lora/24 hours slurry.density 10 Ib/gal., 13.1 per cent dry solids Our estimate,for both lime and carbonate slurries checked
or,22,000 gals:Lary/24 hours out well with quantities actually obtained later from full-scale
or: 14.3 tons/24 hours of dry solids. . plant operations.(End)
Chemico; other components like the flow is made up by a float-valve and remaining, two of which could be
Callow cone, makeup fan, liquid box arrangement, and fresh soda-ash solved by equipment or procedural
pumps and other auxiliary equipment is added to maintain the pH of the changes, while the third may prove
were purchased from best available scrubbing liquid at 7.0 to 8.0. A more difficult.
sources. Scrubber is shown in Figs. rotameter controls additions of soda-
7 and 8. ash conveniently. Capacity of Scrubber: Through an
Ejector is placed downstream from With all parts of the equipment in oversight in the original calculations
the scrubber which is therefore under good working order., and at gas the scrubber was originally built to
a vacuum of about 30 in. of water. flows within the capacity of the handle about 2000 cfm of flue gas,
In operation, gas flows from the scrubber, we have been able to re- saturated at 115 F, a quantity that
power house stack through mild move 90 per cent or better of solids was less than actually required.With
steel pipe, through the two venturis, and 95 per cent or better of corro- some minor changes in the equip-
to the cyclone, then out the top to sives from the flue gas. To neutralize ment the scrubber was later able to
the clean gas line. The scrubbing remnants of SO„ etc., from the handle the 3000 to 3500 cfm re-
liquid used is a dilute solution of clean gas, we bleed into it a small quired. It is, however, a borderline
soda-ash; water would scrub out fly amount of gaseous ammonia, again operation, with the scrubber han-
ash or other solids but alkali is nec- using a rotameter for control. We dling this quantity efficiently only
essary to neutralize sulfuric acid and have found it possible in this way to when all auxiliary equipment is in
other corrosive sulfur compounds control pipe-line condensates to ap- perfect condition. There is no mar-
present in the gases. Scrubbing is ac- proximately pH 7.0, at which point ginal capacity for wear in circulat-
complished in two steps: first, iri the they have little ability to corrode ing pumps, clogged spray nozzles,
venturis by injecting scrubbing liq- metals. etc.; hence, when such things occur,
uid at right angles to the gas-flow, I wish that I could report here we are forced to operate the scrubber
and second, in the cyclone where the that all of our corrosion troubles below maximum.efficiency. The ob-
gas again contacts scrubbing liquid stopped after the scrubber was in- vious remedy isto replace the pres-
in the form of a fine mist from high. stalled. Such is not the case, how- ent scrubber with another which
pressure spray nozzles. The bulk of ever, for we have had a pipe-line would have suitable overcapacity
fly ash and corrosives is removed in failure from corrosion very recently. and this will probably be done at
the first scrubbing operation while Neither do I mean to infer that the some future time.
most of the balance is removed in scrubber has been a failure. In prin-
the second stage. Entrained liquid is ciple, we believe the apparatus to be Clogging of Spray Nozzles: We
spun out centrifugally in the separa- sound, although a few details re- have had, at times, some trouble
for and returned, via a Callow cone main to be solved before we can with clogging of the nozzles, but we
for solids removal, to the system for state unequivocally that it is a com- believe this has been largely elimi-
recirculation. Before recirculation, plete success. nated by a regular weekly cleaning
water lost by evaporation and under- There are three major problems schedule. As stated, since our scrub-
'Awl,
crub-
'9�Y � � ^, �, �l sy ^.t� � ��,�v,pr,-3, r y xa _ rv�• s `�z ILu? � " � 'd-s' '� '�' �,4y�E 5 I' 1 r� _ a s h ae5� rt y'� s a
it
UESA` i wr P ' a9srEo ra; �
#r a
METER' '
s , `noxa "' i AU7aMATIC >+1v s
vT„ s v+afty x a � i vSA+t A*at
All S � '4 �' {,x e mx s a MEASUREMENT
x zo arGaa 4 AMMDNIAsuvxr � .7 �a 'x
'k tea, `s'fAak� '+ ,xT�'�r ,759np615 `Z a v s"' a kr_a� "Hfvb�' k d xak Ps'Z„ " gxa s
{#
v� iDa910 ¢ '7�;�1 diR3' eCauaBEa ak"tVaa9 i �.TS"fin x � e� 'x,, ,'
a °"6`'k o-•= � a lark -� :T $ ay2 AdPaa, �� SETTLING L a�
i BASIN
�; x u ,,,. '�w�."&'r a �,� s t'� x}�. 2w" tm e•,4 J� va.,
4 v a s s d- 3y �rj r q„M1°
r : 'k x n a x '"i a a 15 a G r a o `Lc fir
k`
r a'1 a a „ a ., rati
2a "R .74-,
� .m'x1-x £ ,k, , a �WvD4Ef2RWM 7f}no-sh,'�R"yse�p4a v{ A#5 �Y33 na #� r e a, µ sz ti �' � ""�4
CARBONATING BASIN
u�� �5 y�'WKE�..'£;E. a� r„ j,da �`ji��k. �..."g r•`� 4��, ��Ry i 'tt� a'fi„'M�1 � '€{'x' �y�k�c'��a`�� i�T�'t��u
pin w, rf G.i Jr CCNSTANT LEVEL �+. s 4Ri FINAL �* g c , a`n yt `
SCRUBBING LIaIID v 4 ` x'T
ua m. MAS UP
�'E2n�'.x`k•�k'N.,F���"',ti� ,v+ tvy Fa ua�L�UNR�hEN11NaY aa.-a `�"x�,� .�aV�5r 4� a ,`� 'n' ��.f"n&�iY;xu"v � �� ,k,"��,pk^�y�.
,' 4y fS xMn a Ye' _ MJ ,4. tF �
a s & RGTAME7Ee
m r�� ss x ����,x. IsPn yg�, �F�. sg1x! �.f�.3'• li" , ��a 3=x *" �A��; ;
.k a*'�q.{, a' ggY11iM 6Ageaat'E S1WtA9E iSmpMG SDWTIONt��x s r a� x x ��� � � �
Fig. 6. Flow diagram of sewage purification system at Eastman's Peabody plant shows components of system now in use
art' f;' Tfun,i
z
{' : x
am
Fig. 7 Flue-dust scrubber showing venturi section, cyclone Fig. 8. Enlarged view of the venturi section to show piping
ber is of borderline capacity,clogging course, as pump manufacturers are and one tank-truck and driver are
of'even a few of them severely re- unwilling to recommend a complete required for five full eight-hour days
duces overall scrubbing efficiency. solution of the problem. This will per week (Fig. 9).
We do not believe this would be take time but we believe we shall Possibility of dewatering the slur-
much of a problem with a properly eventually arrive at a solution. ries has been explored because, if it
oversized scrubber. There has been an understandable were feasible, both haulage costs and
tendency on the part of operators to the dump area necessary would be
Failure of Circulating Pump: This stretch out the life of the pumps as reduced. However, our findings in-
high-pressure pump circulates about far as possible. Scrubber efficiency dicate that the best that, could be
20 gprim of hot; dilute soda-ash solu- drops rapidly, of course, as flow of expected of a good vacuum filter
tion at 75 to 90 psig through the liquid to the nozzles diminishes.Solu- would be to reduce a slurry of 10 per
spray nozzles of the cyclone. Tem- tion of this problem should therefore cent solids to a wet cake of perhaps
perature of the liquid circulated by go a long way toward keeping our 40 per cent solids. While this would
the pump is about 125 F, pH about scrubbing equipment running at top reduce haulage weight about 75 per
9.0, and it contains considerable efficiency.Finally,it is our belief that cent,cost of building and equipment,
amounts of suspended carbon and present failures of downstream pipe depreciation, and operating costs for
fly ash. This combination has par- represent compromises made in the the equipment would more than off-
ticularly severe corrosion-erosion past with more frequent changes of set the possible gain.
properties and keeping pumps in this these pumps. We have concluded that unless,a
service has caused us trouble from In summing up the performance'of ready market for the wet cake can
the beginning. Small turbine-type our scrubbing equipment, we believe be found, dewatering slurries would
pumps originally supplied with the that when the three problems just be unprofitable. Of course, if a large
equipment lasted about one week. discussed are solved, we shall have a dump area was not available to us
Open impeller, cast-iron centrifuge_ completely satisfactory system. nearby, the economicsofthe situa-
pumps did somewhat better, lasting tion might dictate differently.
perhaps three months at most. We Slurry Disposal: Both lime and Aver-a11 Performance
are now experimenting with hardened carbonate slurries are disposed of
and alloyed materials hoping for by trucking to a large waste land We do, naturally, have occasional
still further improvement: Experi- area and there dumped. Haulage shutdowns of equipment because of
mentation seems to be our only re- distance is about one mile round trip, repairs to flue gas pipe lines, mainte-
nance of pumps, and work of similar
nature. For the most part, however,
"g a we have run continuously since in-
F stallation of the system, and per-
formance in terms of lime removal
has been excellent. Effluents dis-
n, os - charged to our sewer mains are
{ w w usually well within limits set by
local statute for both alkalinity and
suspended solids.
By contrast with our earlier opera-
n ( _ tions, our present lime removal
operations look very good indeed.
Some minor equipment changes are
needed, but when these are made,
substantial improvements in reduc-
ing maintenance costs and in in-
creasing quality of effluents should
result.
Problems connected with gas scrub-
bing are pretty well understood here
and we feelthat -their complete
solution is only a matter of time.
When this. has been accomplished,
we hope our waste disposal plant will
serve as a model for others who may
have difficulties in this kind of
Fig,Q. Sludge storage tanks and tank trucleused to haul sludge to nearby dump operation.
RECEIVED
JUL 18 1967
EASTMAN GELATINE CORPORATION CITY OF SALEM
HEALTH DEP.^..'TMEMl7
PEABODY, MASS. 01960
July 17, 1967
Dr. John J. Toomey, Agent
Board of Health
5 Broad Street
Salem, Mass. 01970
Dear Dr. Toomey:
As I suspected, the Kodak Company would like us to
have something in writing. Will you therefore, on the attached
sheet, put your signature preceded by the work "Approved. " You
may keep one copy and return the duplicate to us for our files.
Yo very truly
GSmith:C Genra Manager
Enc.
July 17, 1967
We shall be glad to provide on a trial basis one or two
truckloads of lime suspension as obtained from our normal operations.
This material will be dumped from our trucks into the North River in
Salem at a time and place mutually agreeable to the City and to Eastman
Gelatine Corporation. This, of course, must be on the understanding
that the City will hold Eastman Gelatine Corporation harmless from any
liability, unless arising from our own negligence.
If this material proves desirable to you, we shall be glad
to develop a long range agreement to provide you with a continuing
supply.
APPROVED
JOfIN J TOOMEY D
Health Agent
M ,
WILLIAM H.BATES • 2227 RAYEGRN OFFICE BUILDING
6TX DISTRICT.MASSACHUSETTS WASHINGTON,D.C. 20515
COMMITTEES: . DISTRICT OFFICES:
ARMED MITTEEB Congrof; of the aniteb Stater 200 POST OFFICEMASSACHUSETTS
BTS 019
JOINT COMMITTEE ON SALEM,MRSSRCXVSETTS 01910
ATOMIC ENERGY 210 PST OFFICE BILDING34ouye of eprea} 4a{ bd
LYNN.MASSACHUSETTS 01901
Wa0bington,
June 13,1967
Mrs. William Kallas, Secretary
North River Citizens' Association
4 Bayview Circle
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
Dear Mrs. Kallas:
Thank you for your letter enclosing a copy of your appeal to the
President for federal action to remedy the North River pollution and
odor problem in Salem.
As you say, this is a matter which has received much attention
down through the years by both my father and me. As a result, various
proposals for possible federal assistance have been developed to try to
eliminate this nuisance, but the initiative for any of these projects
must come from the local municipal government. High cost estimates
have unfortunately discouraged much of that initiative, however.
I have worked with both local and state public health authorities,
as well as elected officials, in quest of the best solution. You no
doubt are familiar with the current efforts of Dr. John J. Toomey of the
Salem Board of Public Health, to obtain local funds for treating the
North River flats with hydrogen sulfide by helicopter. This should
provide at least temporary relief from the offensive odors.
I understand that Dr. Toomey has also been conferring with State
sanitary engineers concerning a possible dredging project to remove the
surface accumulation on the flats at the mouth of the North River.
Two other possible future steps toward solving the problem are also
seen in conjunction with our area's sewage disposal program. The South
Essex Sewerage District, serving Salem, Beverly, Peabody and Danvers, has
applied for federal funds to complete plans for a huge new sewage treat-
ment plant, which would be financed with the assistance of both federal
and state pollution control funds. Once this plant is assured, I under-
stand, the way would be cleared for new. sewer trunk lines from Peabody
which could carry off much of the odiferous matter now contaminating
the North River.
S
Mrs. William Kailas - 2 - June 13, 1967 -
The second possibility is one of the proposed alternative routes of
a new section of highway called the Beverly-Salem Connector from Route
95, going to the proposed new Salem-Beverly Bridge. This route is
along the Borth River and would, I am told, help to eliminate some of
the causes of the River's smell. Federal as well as state funds would
pay for this connector.
The Federal Water Pollution Control Administration, at' my request,
is at present exploring the possibility of combatting what may be a
contributing factor to the exceptionally strong odor from the area at
the mouth of the Borth River.
Whatever is done to provide the solution which we all so fervently
desire to end the Borth River nuisance, you may be sure that I will
continue to cooperate in every wavy possible, I will be pleased to
keep you apprised of developments toward that end.
With best wishes for success in your organization's efforts, and
with kindest regards, I am
Sincerely yours,
William H. Bates
/aslH
Enclosure
P. S. Inasmuuch as adequate sewage treatment facilities - such as planned
by the South Essex Sewerage District - are basic requirements for
communities to receive federal financial assistance for sewer and
other pollution control projects, I recently called for the appro=
pristion of the full amount of funds authorised for the Federal
Water Pollution Control Administration to distribute to the stakes
for such facilities. You might be interested in the enclosed copy
of my statement to the House Public Works Appropriations Subcommittee
on this subject. W.H.B.
FROM: Rep. William H. Bates, Washington, D. C. May 11, 1967
FOR RELEASE ON RECEIPT
WASHINGTON -- Congressman William H. Bates of the Sixth Massachusetts
District today announced that he has urged the appropriation of the full
$450-million authorized by Congress last year for the construction of sewage
treatment facilities in Fiscal Year 1968.
Bates told the Rouse Public Works Appropriations Subcommittee that when
the Clean Waters Restoration Act of 1966 was enacted, he "felt that a significant
step had been taken toward assisting the cities and towns to meet the fantastically
expensive task of complying with the federal government's demand that they meet the
water quality standards it had laid flown."
The 1966 act authorized the appropriation of $450-million for distribution
to the states in the next fiscal year by the Federal Water Pollution Control
Administration for vitally-needed treatment plants. This would assure Mass-
achusetts at least $12-million under the basic allocation formula.
The President's budget, however, Representatives Bates pointed out, asks
for only $200-million for this purpose in Fiscal '68. That amount would cut
the Massachusetts share to $4.9-million.
Bates noted that his home state of Massachusetts has cooperated through
its Legislature's enactment of the Commonwealth's own Clean Waters Act, setting up
a water pollution control program which Secretary of the Lnterior Udall described
as a model for the rest of the country, and authorizing the bonding of $150-million
to implement it. Stressing that "Massachusetts and other states have geared their
pollution control programs in line with what they had every reason to expect would
be forthcoming in the way of federal participation," the Bay State Congressman
called for the appropriation of the additional $250-million in federal funds as
authorized for the coming year.
"Either the federal government must meet its full obligation for partici-
pation," Bates concluded, "or the cities and towns should be relieved of the
mandatory aspects of the law with respect to water quality standards."
STATEMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE WILLIAM H. BATES of Massachusetts at Public Hearing,
House Public Works Appropriations Subcommittee, on 1968 Fiscal Year
Appropriation for Federal Water Pollution Control Administration.
Mr. Chairman:
I appreciate this opportunity to record my views with your Committee.
When Congress enacted the Clean Waters Restoration Act last year, I felt
that a significant step had been taken toward assisting our cities and towns to
meet the fantastically expensive task of complying with the federal government's
demand that they meet the water quality standards it had laid down.
Faced with continually-mounting expenses for providing the myriad regular
services for which they are obligated, our local communities have been weaving
under the pressure for them to contribute to cleaning up our rivers. Only to
achieve minimum water quality standards, but still leaving its river unfit for
swimming or fish habitation, it is estimated that it will cost $24-million in
pollution control funds for one city in my Congressional district alone.
It was to help our local communities to combat the nation's water pollution
problems and meet the water quality standards that we in the Congress, through
the Clean Waters Restoration Act of 1966, authorized the appropriation of $450-
million in Fiscal Year 1966 for the necessary sewage treatment plants and related
abatement projects.. Already it has been shown that even this amount is insufficient
to keep abreast of the tremendous demand.
Even before Congress had completed action on its 1966 Act, my home state of
Massachusetts was anticipating the big step forward that Act promised toward
cleaning up our rivers and harbors. The Massachusetts Legislature, with Governor
Volpe's backing, enacted the state's own Clean Waters Act, setting up a pollution
control program which Secretary of the Interior Udall described as a model for
the rest of the country. To implement it, the bonding of $150-million was voted
to be used with federal and local funds.
BATES (FWPCA Appropriation)--------2
Recognizing that treatment facilities are costly at best, but that like
everything else their costs can be expected to rise with every passing year,
Massachusetts and other states have geared their pollution control programs in
line with what they had every reason' to expect would be forthcoming in the way
of federal participation. Yet, the Congress has now been asked to budget only
$200-million for the entire nation in the Federal Water Pollution Control
Administration appropriation which your Committee is considering at this time
for Fiscal '68.
Under our authorization act's distribution formula, the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts would be allocated $12-million in federal funds for use by its
cities and towns if the full $450-million was provided as authorized. But
under the less than half of that amount asked in the President's budget, qj
state's share would be reduced to $4.9-million.
So it is easy to understand the distress of both state and local government
people in Massachusetts and elsewhere over the prospect of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Administration not being given the maximum amount of money
which the Congress less than 12 months ago agreed was justified for the treatment
facilities program in Fiscal Year 1968. It is my hope, therefore, Mr. Chairman,
that your Committee will restore the remaining authorized $250-million and recommend
the full $450-million appropriation for this vital and economically-beneficial
public health and safety program,
Either the federal government must meet its full obligation for participation,
or the cities and towns should be relieved of the mandatory aspects of the law
with respect to water quality standards.
Thank you, gentlemen.
June 6, 1967
Uonorable Yraucis X. Collins
City gall
Ss Cert. 2Assachuse t is
Dear Mayort
A serious Air Pollution situation has arisen in the surrounding
area due to the exeassive pollution of the North liver. Wa would
refrain from general discussion of the reasons for pollution in
this letter, but mould respectfully request that money be appro-
priated for the lining of the flat areas to Siva some relief to the
resiecuto in the vicinity.
The area in question encoopasses about 100 acres. The listing should
be done by helicopter. Lime ruy be purchased at $19.50 per tont,
plus freight charges of $9.19 per tots. lir would require about 100
ton or a tone per acre. The helicopter charges v11'l be approximately
$5501.
Therefore, xwy we respectfully request that the sum of $E50O be appro-
priated to a SpeciAl Item, North River Lissa Project. Approval of the
above was voted at a special Mating of the Board of Health on Tuesday,
Jura 6, 1167.
vary truly your#,
FOR THE BQARO €F 1fI MZH
JORN J. TOOMEY, D.S.C.
Uealth Agent
15 4.6.6 5-94 0 9 81
t� THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
DEPARTMENT OF
l PUBLIC HEALTH parch 29, 1965 ''
STATE HOUSE. BOSTON 02133
�Wy
Ro: SALEM MPG - Municipal
Pollution of thaa7fi6rtTS rRiver
Mr. Jamas F. Coughlin mel
30 Mason Street
Sal em Massachusetts 4` ° Or
He f.L j H DCPF ,�Uf&-NT
Dear S.ir: �. .
•
The Department of Public Health is In receipt of your petition
objecting to the inadequacies existing in the South Essex Sewerage
District sewerage system. This matter has been udtod extensively for
a number of years. In communications to the Sou Essex Seworaga District,
the Department of Public Health has advocated t t the South Essex Sewerage
District engage engineers to prepare reports and an* prior to the
construction of trunk samers to convey s dustriol wastes
adequately and safety to the pumping s discharge to Salam
Harbor.
Recently this Department latcd study and a rcpart of the,
conditions existing within the Inas of mics-Beverly Harbor. As a
result of this study and repor , he Sou• ) ssex Gatcrcgo District is
presently interviewing consults i engineers prior to their,
being engaged to study, report, era ro plens for the construction
of adequate scworoga feed and go treatment plant.
If you hove fu or puss s In this ratter, please feel free
to caller write.
ve ruly yours, °
h'orthen H. Taylor
Director
Division of Sanitary Engineering
C-Board of th
Salem
C-south Essex Sewerage District.
Fort Avenue
Salem
#1680-1864
Virot
'u
.m... LN
July
J//J
L
July 280 1967
Mr. John C. Collins, Director
Division of Sanitary Engineering
Department of Public Health
State House _
Boston 33, Massachusetts
Dear Sir:
This letter is in the nature of formaiizint our many verbal toquests end con-
versations with you relative to the North River problem in Salem. To recap
the events this simmer somenahat'z First, our department had determined in
the early €suzmer- that the odors emanating from the river wore due, 99%, from
the grosspoliution of the stream by the South Essex Sewerage District at
their grease and grit chamber at the Salem end Peabody 'lino. We asst accept
thin problf-mi as a faet of life until soxthing cam be done about building a
treatment plant and the enlargement of the sewer.
In the meantime I had talked rui.th *. Mario 3orchett-i, Biologist in your
division, in the hope that we Tright evolve some method of reducing the odors
to a bearable point. Mario su ,asted that t t`y the spreading of Calcium
Hydroxide by helicopter over the flats. We slid this. During the time we were
doing this, however-, we vere offered by the Eastman Gelatins Corporation of
Peabody, through their manager Mr. G. Smith, the use of lime which come as a
waste product from their plant. I was concerned that maybe this lime, having
been used might not work out. I took some samples from the plant, had our man
bring thea to the laboratory in Lawrence for evaluation and explained to
Mr. tosenblatt what the intent for use was. 11r. Rosenblatt informed of%r man
that he could not accept the samples, that they must coxae through the 'Depertment
of Health, or the Depertment of Natural Resources, Division of Water Pollution
Control. I talked to the Department of Natural Resources and they thought the
idea had possibilities, said %,a ought to contact your department to issue
instructions to the laboratory to make tests on the samples. We are therefore
now making formal requisition to have samples of this material tested at the
1,mirencc Laboratory, I have instructed one of ray Teen to take mud samples at
various pasts of the river and flats plus some of the slurry of the lim from
Eastman Gelatine Corp. to the lab for evaluation.
I visited the Eastman Gelatine Corp. plant In Peabody and talked with their
chemist Mr. Conway. His opinion is that it could do some good end I have talked
to another sanitary engineer who also thought that some good could come of the
use of this material. Eastman is concerned about any liability accruing to them
as a result of the use of their product. The question here is could we assure
4
• Department of Health
Division of Sanitary Engineering
Page 2--July 28, 1957
them that no tiabilitytaould arise.
We still have some moncy available for putting, unslaked time on the flats and
the river if this program does not vork out. I am concerned with the amount
of mmicy to be expanded for this purpose by the City of Salem, particularly in
its relationship of relief to be obtained by any given expenditure, so that if
Eastman could provide this tstuf£ at practically no cost, everyone would be the
gainer.
[►gain, confirming verbal agreement with your Maria Borchetti, with wticau I will
kcc±p in touch and hopefully; between us all, and particularly with your help
c MTJ come up with tomathing. "
Boz this all past kindnesses to us, please accept our sincere appreciation.
Very truly yours#
FM THE BSDAitiD OF HE"TH
JUN J. 'TdCMEY, D.S.G.
Health Mont
JJT;jaf
F
Mr. Thomas E. Cronan
212 Wheeler-ball
Dartmouth College
Hanover, N.H.
Dept, of Public Health
Salem, Massachusetts
Dear Sir:
I am presently enrolled at Dartmouth College and am study-
ing biology. I am working on a thesis now that deals ;with the
current air and water pollution problem which exists in many of
the major cities in the country. One of these major problems that
I would like to discuss is that of the North River. But I am
afraid that I find myself without sufficient material on the subject
to do an adequate job. „
I would therefore appreciate any material that you could give
me ( or perhaps lend to me until the end of the term) . It is with
this purpose that I have written to you. Any material that you
could give me would be greatly appreciated. Some of the sources
in which I am particularly interested, are county and state reports
and any quantitative data that might have been gathered in any
analyzes that might have been made.
If you find that it is at all possible to gather this infor-
mation, then 1 would greatly appreciate it if you would mail it
to me at my college address at your earliest convenience. I will
guarantee postage.
Thank you very much for your kind cooperation. —
Sincerely,
0.R171'GOiJ
Thomas Cronan
Y
May 3, 1966
Mr. Thomas E. Cronan
212 Wheeler Hall
Dartmouth College
Hanover, New Hampshire
Dear Sir:
We have a voluminous file on the North River which is practically
a drawer in itself. This is available to you at any time.
For State reports I would suggect that you write to the Division
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Public Health, State House,
Boston, Massachusetts.
Also you might write to the South Essex Sewerage Board, 50 Fort Ave-'
nue, Salem, Mass.
I hope this is helpful to you. Glad to hear from you at any time.
Very truly yours,
JOHN J. TOOMEY, D.S.C.
Director,
T/h