The Millican Treatment facility, situated in the high desert, 20 miles east of Bend, Oregon, serves as a vital component in the operations of Oregon Water Utilities (OWU) and McDonald Septic Services (MDSS). The facility is undergoing significant transformation since its acquisition in 2020, transitioning from a resourceful yet primitive setup to a modern, efficient, and compliant disposal system.
The Millican facility plays a crucial role in processing a wide range of waste materials, including those pumped from septic tanks, grease interceptors, treatment plants, and other wastewater holding tanks across central Oregon.
The facility’s Operator and Area Supervisor Mike Maxey’s dedication, hard work, and innovative problem-solving has been instrumental in ensuring the plant operates effectively and efficiently. We are excited to spotlight a new chapter in MDSS operations as we begin the process of commissioning new improvements constructed at the Millican site.
Highlights include:
- Installation of permanent power infrastructure spanning a mile, replacing the inefficient and inconvenient diesel generator.
- Upgrades to the land application pump and chlorine injector system.
- Enhancements to the truck unloading ramp, including new screening equipment, improved lighting, spill drainage, and expanded capacity.
- Addition of four new 10,000-gallon interim storage tanks.
- Construction of a processing building equipped with HVAC, plumbing, and insulation.
- Installation of a de-watering screw press and polymer injection system.
- Replacement of the well pump and associated plumbing.
- Establishment of an office/lab facility to support administrative and testing needs.
Thank you to SWWC for investing in modernizing our treatment facility to ensure employee safety and environmental compliance. We offer special recognition to the engineering team led by Jorge Lopez, Michael DeGhetto, and Warjay Naigan for their technical and contract support with this complex project. Finally, the relentless efforts of the MDSS team, including Adam Chain, Darren Nunn, Rob Fish, Ashley Strouse, and Mike Maxey, alongside contributions from Brett Limbeck and Greg Galindo, have been pivotal in facilitating these transformative changes.
