Saline Township data center seeks permit to discharge wastewater into river
A data center project in Saline Township, Michigan, is seeking a permit to discharge treated wastewater into the Saline River, sparking concerns among local residents about water quality. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is accepting public comments on the permit application.
A permit application for a wastewater treatment plant associated with a controversial data center project in Saline Township, Michigan, is now open for public comment. The facility, operated by Oracle and Related Digital, proposes to discharge treated water used by the data center into the Saline River.
Community members have voiced significant concerns regarding the proposal, citing potential impacts on water quality. According to EGLE, the permit would allow an increased loading of pollutants into the Saline River, potentially lowering its water quality, although the wastewater must still meet state standards. Resident Green expressed distrust, questioning the lack of transparency about the water's contents and treatment methods, and highlighting concerns about impacts on other communities downstream such as Bridgewater, Mylan, Dundee Township, and Brook Township.
EGLE is accepting public comments on the application until August 24th and will hold a public hearing if sufficient public interest is demonstrated. Local residents are organizing to support these efforts and raise awareness in affected communities.