Course Overview
This one-day applied course introduces participants to the microbiology of wastewater treatment systems, with an emphasis on recognizing and interpreting the biological community that drives secondary treatment.
Through morning theoretical instruction and afternoon laboratory work using live activated sludge samples, students will learn to identify microorganisms under the microscope, relate their presence to process performance, and understand how microbiology connects to operational control and compliance.
Wastewater Microbiology course outline
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
Explain the role of microorganisms in biological wastewater treatment.
Identify major microbial groups (bacteria, protozoa, metazoa, filamentous organisms) observed in activated sludge.
Relate microbial population shifts to plant operating conditions and performance indicators.
Demonstrate proper microscopic techniques and sample preparation.
Interpret microscopic observations to support process optimization.
Instructional Methods
Classroom presentation and visual guides
Microscopy demonstration and student practice
Group discussion and case study analysis
Observation recording worksheets
Participant Materials
Participant workbook (slides, microbial ID charts, worksheets)
Field sampling checklist
Certificate of Completion
Pre-Reading (Recommended)
Water Environment Federation: Operation of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants, Vol. 1, Chapter 7 – Microbiology
WEF Microbiology Poster: Microscopic Evaluation of Activated Sludge
Health Canada / Manitoba Environment – Wastewater Treatment Guidelines
Instructor Team
Lead Instructor: Raven Sharma – Environmental Microbiologist / Wastewater Specialist
Host: City of Selkirk Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations Team
Participant Notes
Bring steel-toe boots, safety glasses, and high-visibility clothing for the plant area.
All other PPE (lab coat, gloves) will be provided.
Lunch and refreshments provided on-site.
Photography through microscope eyepiece is permitted with instructor approval.