JEA Conducts “Slug Response” Exercise to Protect Wastewater System and Environment

2026-03-04

Jacksonville, FL - JEA’s Pollution Prevention Team conducted a functional “Slug Response” exercise yesterday to test its ability to detect, investigate and respond to a sudden chemical discharge into the wastewater system.

The exercise simulated a chemical release impacting microbial populations at the Arlington East Water Reclamation Facility (WRF). In the scenario, elevated levels of total suspended solids (TSS) and ammonia threatened downstream treatment processes and JEA’s advanced water treatment facility operations, including its potable reuse recharge program.

While the event was simulated, the training reflects real-world risks utilities prepare for to protect infrastructure and the environment.

What Is a “Slug” Event?

In wastewater operations, a “slug load” refers to an unusually high concentration of pollutants discharged into the sewer system over a short period of time. These discharges can originate from industrial facilities, commercial businesses, or improper disposal practices.

JEA’s wastewater system is engineered to treat:

• Domestic wastewater from homes (sinks, showers, toilets, washing machines)
• Commercial wastewater
• Permitted industrial process water

Treatment facilities rely on carefully balanced biological systems — particularly beneficial microorganisms — to remove pollutants before water is safely discharged or reused under strict state and federal environmental permits.

When a concentrated chemical release enters the system, it can:

• Disrupt biological treatment processes
• Damage pumps and mechanical infrastructure
• Cause permit exceedances
• Impact downstream facilities
• Threaten rivers, wetlands or aquifer recharge programs if not addressed quickly

“This type of exercise is about protecting critical infrastructure and protecting the environment at the same time,” said Zack Waldroup, Manager of JEA’s Pollution Prevention Programs. “Our treatment plants are designed to handle normal wastewater flows. When something unusual enters the system — especially a chemical release — we must be able to identify it quickly, assess the risk and stop it before it affects operations or our waterways.”

Testing Prevention, Response and Mitigation

The March 4 exercise was conducted at JEA Headquarters and in the field at lift stations and basin locations associated with the Arlington East service area. Teams from Industrial Pretreatment, Sampling, Incident Response and Emergency Preparedness participated.

The exercise focused on four core capabilities:

• Environmental Response and Health & Safety
• Situational Assessment
• Planning
• Operational Coordination

Participants worked through a real-time scenario requiring them to:

• Analyze abnormal plant data and lab results
• Deploy field teams to investigate lift stations
• Use response tools and monitoring equipment
• Coordinate across departments
• Follow the slug response plan
• Complete required documentation and internal notifications

“When we see abnormal readings — like elevated ammonia or changes in microbial performance — we treat it seriously,” said Sharon Piltz, Environmental Scientist Senior, with JEA’s Pollution Prevention Team. “Our crews head into the collection system, take samples at strategic points, work upstream to narrow down the source and communicate constantly with plant operators. It’s about isolating the issue and protecting the treatment process before it can cause larger impacts.”

A Proactive, Year-Round Approach

Beyond exercises, JEA operates a comprehensive Industrial Pretreatment and Pollution Prevention Program that works year-round to monitor and regulate industrial discharges. This includes permitting, inspections, sampling, compliance monitoring, education, and enforcement when necessary.

JEA operates multiple water reclamation facilities that treat millions of gallons of wastewater daily for customers across Northeast Florida. Treated water is cleaned to stringent environmental standards before being safely discharged or reused.

“Protecting our wastewater system means protecting public health, safeguarding the St. Johns River and ensuring we can continue delivering reliable service,” said Mike Dae, Director of Regulatory & Permitting Programs. “Training like this ensures we are ready.”

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About JEA

JEA is a municipal utility providing safe, reliable and affordable services to more than one million residents across four Northeast Florida counties. JEA is not owned by investors and does not earn a profit. It was created by the City of Jacksonville to meet the electricity and water needs of those who live in Jacksonville and surrounding communities. JEA’s 2,300-plus workforce is dedicated to meeting customer needs, both today and for generations to come, while protecting our precious natural resources and supporting our region’s growth and economic development. Learn more at jea.com.

Media Contact

Karen McAllister
media@jea.com | 904-665-5500

Category:

• conservation
• customer
• environment
• water