The prime draw at this location is waterfowl, which are otherwise difficult to find in Emporia. In the winter, it sometimes hosts large congregations of ducks and geese including Canada Geese, Mallards, Ring-necked Ducks, and Gadwall. Sometimes the regulars are joined by more uncommon visitors, and species such as Ruddy Duck, Canvasback, and Cackling Goose have all been spotted here. The WWTP is mostly bordered by woods, making it a good spot to seek winter woodland dwellers such as Brown Creeper or Hermit Thrush, as well as breeding species including Red-eyed Vireo and Great Crested Flycatcher. The southwest edge backs up to a large swamp, which is a great place to spot Wood Ducks and, in the breeding season, Prothonotary Warblers. If you are granted access at the office, walking the perimeter of the WWTP lake gives you a chance to check muddy edges for shorebirds. As of December 2019, Wilson’s Snipe is the only species recorded here, but this location is surely promising for other species. Spring and summer bring Mississippi Kites, which can often be seen hunting over the lake.
Accessibility: Like many wastewater treatment facilities, this location has restricted access. It is gated, and the gate will often be locked evenings and weekends. However, it is possible to scope from outside the gate and have a good, if distant view of most of the facility. On days when the gate is open, it is possible to drive in and request permission to bird from the main office. While the staff has been receptive to birders in the past, anyone wishing to enter the facility must first get permission from the office.
Owner/Manager: City of Emporia
eBird Hotspot: Emporia Wastewater Treatment Facility (restricted access)
—Matt Anthony