From Classroom to Clean Water

Chimacum High natural resource students received a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day operation of essential water and wastewater systems.

Students toured JPUD’s Sparling Well—the largest well and centerpiece of the Quimper water system—to learn how local geography, hydrology, and chemistry work together to deliver safe, clean drinking water to homes. The Sparling Well can produce more than 2 million gallons per day at peak usage and provides water for more than 3,700 connections across mid-county. 

Students also visited the new Port Hadlock Wastewater Facility, which came online in September. Wastewater plant operator, Joey Barkle, and Jefferson County Wastewater Project Manager, Samantha Harper showcased the cutting-edge tech that treats and transforms wastewater into clean water and usable fertilizer.