National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility researchers will be working with some of the most dangerous animal diseases in the world.
So this begs the question: how will those in charge prevent the dangerous pathogens and lab materials from getting into the local water supply?
“We have what’s called liquid effluent decontamination systems,” Dr. Ken Burton, NBAF Coordinator says. “(It uses) high pressure and high heat to decontaminate the liquid waste coming out of the laboratories. Then that goes through a water pretreatment processing facility that’s on campus.”
For those who may be worried about how environmentally friendly NBAF’s liquid-waste cleaning system is, Burton says they have that covered as well.
“Much of that liquid waste will remain on campus to be used to water the landscaping and water the grassland that’s going to be on campus,” Burton said.
So whether the water is recycled or sent off-campus, Burton affirms that it will be decontaminated.
For more information about the different aspects of NBAF’s design, visit usda.gov/nbaf.
