At the P3S Conference in San Jose last year, one question stopped me in my tracks: “What do you have to lose?”
That defining, but simple question sparked a collaboration that turned a compliance challenge into a success story. Meeting face-to-face with companies that truly understand our industry is what makes CWEA events so valuable — they create opportunities to connect with experts who can deliver real solutions.
Septic Receiving Station. Photo by Berlinda Blackburn
Our initial goal was to address high-strength wastewater surcharge fees. However, we had to pivot quickly when a newly approved local limit on ammonia went into effect. While a surcharge fee for ammonia already existed, the new discharge limit demanded immediate attention. After evaluating several options, we partnered with Cloacina, a company composed of experienced water quality professionals, to fabricate the PrimePAC system for our septic receiving station (SRS).
The system worked well, but our operations needed to adapt. Septic and portable waste characteristics change constantly, and our new pretreatment system requires consistent influent to perform effectively. To equalize flow and improve stability, we added an additional tank. That helped, but we were still seeing exceedances for ammonia.
Facing a compliance schedule and designation as Significant Non-Compliance (SNC) for ammonia, we knew it was time for a fundamentally different approach. It would take collaboration — between our business, the manufacturer, and the regulatory agency — similar to what had been showcased in a past P3S presentation on industry permitting evolution.
Leveraging my CWEA network proved invaluable. Meeting with vendors who are true experts in wastewater solutions allowed us to discuss our challenges openly and find tailored approaches rather than one-size-fits-all fixes.
When I shared our compliance concerns with the AquaNatural Solutions team — and after some hesitation about the “what ifs” — the owner asked me that defining question again: “What do you have to lose?”
That moment reminded me that progress often begins with stepping outside your comfort zone. Coming from the regulatory side and now operating as a permittee, I have a unique appreciation for both perspectives.
Recognizing that septic and portable waste vary constantly, we decided to take the risk. We implemented a 120-day pilot study with AquaNatural Solutions, using a custom microbial formulation to bioaugment our existing PrimePAC system. Bioaugmentation involves introducing beneficial microbes to enhance treatment performance — in our case, to improve ammonia and BOD removal.
This trial period allowed us to monitor how the system responded, make adjustments, and evaluate the microbes’ effectiveness.
So, what did we lose? After the 120-day pilot study, we can confidently say we lost our high ammonia and BOD levels — and regained full compliance.
We achieved consistent results that exceeded expectations and are no longer under a compliance schedule. The success of this pilot encouraged us to continue using the microbial formulation beyond the study phase, particularly for its positive impact on nitrification and overall performance.
Average Removal Rates During 120-Day Pilot:
To maintain long-term performance, we brought in Fluid Resource Management (FRM), whose team of wastewater professionals provides ongoing operational confidence and oversight. This collaboration not only ensures effective system management but also frees up our internal staff to focus on protecting the environment throughout Santa Barbara.
Taking a calculated risk led to measurable results — and reinforced the value of partnership, innovation, and trust in the process.
If you’re seeking solutions, I encourage you to attend the next P3S Conference, taking place February 10–12 in Riverside. The right conversation with the right vendor could make all the difference — just like it did for us.
As Blackburn Environmental Services celebrates its seventh year, it feels fitting that we mark this milestone with such a positive, decisive outcome. We may not have been perfect at first, but our persistence and collaboration brought us back into full compliance — stronger and more informed than before.
Here’s to a compliant and successful Year Seven for Blackburn Environmental Services.
Berlinda Blackburn is the owner and operator of Blackburn Environmental Services. She has more than 20 years of industry experience. She is also the Past Chair of the P3S Committee, Past President of the Santa Ana River Basin Section (SARBS), and Past CWEA Director from the South
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