The Verdigris Water Treatment Plant is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to providing clean and safe drinking water to the residents of Broken Arrow. The plant was completed in 2014 and cost approximately $70 million. It was the first in Oklahoma to have a large membrane filtration facility and exceeds all state and federal standards.

In 1979, with a population of 35,000, Broken Arrow relied on the Oklahoma Ordnance Works Authority for drinking water, transported via a 27-mile pipeline from Pryor. After over 25 years of reliance on purchased water, our city leaders decided in 2004 to design and construct the city's own water treatment plant. The Verdigris Water Treatment Plant can produce approximately 30 million gallons per day (MGD) of treated drinking water for Broken Arrow customers.

Water Treatment Process

Intake & Raw Water Pump Station

The treatment process begins at the Verdigris River, where water enters through intake screens. The station uses three powerful pumps to move up to 20 million gallons of water per day. The water is then transported to the Pre-Sedimentation Basins through a large pipeline.

Pre-Sedimentation Basins

Two basins hold over 260 million gallons of raw water—sufficient to ensure uninterrupted supply. These basins help remove larger particles from the water and stabilize the load on the treatment plant.

Pre-Treatment Basins

The next step involves four parallel basins that process 10 million gallons per day. A coagulant is added to the water to help small particles form larger clumps, which are then removed through sedimentation.

Membrane Filtration

The water is further purified using low-pressure microfiltration membranes. These advanced filters remove tiny particles, including harmful microorganisms like Giardia cysts. The system also backwashes to maintain efficiency.

Disinfection

Chlorine is added to the water for primary disinfection, ensuring it remains safe all the way to your tap. Secondary disinfection with chloramines and fluoride treatment for dental protection are also part of the process.

Finished Water Clearwell & High Service Pump Station

The treated water is stored in a 6-million-gallon clearwell before being pumped to the city’s distribution system. High-powered pumps ensure that the water reaches homes and businesses across Broken Arrow.