Overview

The Murphree Water Plant is a water treatment plant located in Gainesville, Florida. It is tasked with purifying water to meet state and federal standards before it is sent to the city's residents. The plant can produce up to 39 million gallons of clean water per day and serves over 100,000 customers. This article will explore how the Murphree Water Plant works to treat water.

Water Sources

The Murphree Water Plant sources its water from two main sources: the Floridan Aquifer and the Santa Fe River. The Floridan Aquifer is a vast and shallow underground aquifer that spans across southern Georgia, northern Florida, and parts of Alabama and South Carolina. The Santa Fe River is a nearby river that directly feeds into the aquifer. The water is first pumped to the Murphree Water Plant where the treatment process begins.

Coagulation and Flocculation

The treatment process begins with coagulation and flocculation. Chemicals, such as alum and polymer, are added to the water to help separate impurities. The chemicals create a reaction that causes small particles to clump together into larger particles called floc. The floc then settles to the bottom of the tank where it can be removed.

Sedimentation and Filtration

After coagulation and flocculation, the water is sent to the sedimentation basin. Here, the floc is allowed to settle and separate from the clean water. The water is then sent to filters where it passes through layers of sand and gravel. This process removes any remaining particles and impurities in the water.

Disinfection

The final stage of the treatment process is disinfection. The water is treated with chlorine, a powerful disinfectant, to kill any remaining bacteria and viruses. The treated water is then sent to a storage tank and is ready to be pumped out to the city's water mains.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Murphree Water Plant works by sourcing its water from the Floridan Aquifer and the Santa Fe River, treating it through coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation and filtration, and disinfection. The plant is a critical component of the city's water distribution system ensuring clean and safe water for its residents.