Learning in Action: Students Explore the Future of Water Treatment at West Parish Filters

With construction of the new West Parish Water Treatment Plant underway, the Commission’s educational tours at the existing West Parish Filters have been limited but certainly not paused. In late November, we were thrilled to welcome two groups, Westfield State University environmental science students, and students and educators from the Holyoke Community College Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Program. Even amidst construction, these tours offered a unique opportunity for visitors to see how drinking water is treated today while also learning about how the Commission is modernizing our infrastructure for the 21st century. 

During the tour they explored daily operations, including the entire treatment process, met staff across various departments, and had an up-close look at the many jobs available in the water sector. Students learned how climate change, expanding water-quality regulations, and aging infrastructure all contribute to the need for a modernized plant that will utilize many of the existing treatment steps, while integrating newer technologies designed to meet today’s challenges. 

While much of the new West Parish Water Treatment Plant project is under construction, phase one of the facility’s improvements – the Backwash Facility – was completed in 2023. A highlight during the tours was the opportunity to see the new facility and learn about how it supports current operations through construction – a great example of how careful planning and phased improvements keep our system resilient. 

Commission staff take great pride not only in operating West Parish Filters, but in sharing our work with students who may become the next generation of water professionals – maybe even at West Parish!