Frequently Asked Questions

How many miles of pipe does MSD maintain?

Approximately 950 miles of public sewer pipes, ranging from 6" - 66" in diameter.

How much wastewater does MSD treat per day?

MSD is averaging 20 million gallons of wastewater through the plant every day. However, 40% of that is from infiltration and inflow, which means it comes from sources that are not supposed to be entering the system, such as groundwater and rainwater.

How many people work at MSD?

We employ about 150 full time staff, with duties ranging from maintaining the sewer lines, overseeing 30 pump stations, operating the treatment plant, engineering sewer line rehabilitation projects, and monitoring industrial waste and reducing grease from restaurants.

Where does the treated wastewater go?

The treated water is returned to the French Broad River. The returning wastewater stream amounts to less than 2% of the downstream flow. The treated water entering the river has a lower bacteria count than the river.

How does a company do business with MSD?

Contact Julie Willingham , Purchasing Coordinator at 828-225-8256 or click on her name to send an email.

Is MSD part of the state or local government?

We are an independent municipality formed in 1962 under the NC Metropolitan Sewerage Districts Act. We have an appointed Board of Directors, Three members are from Buncombe County, three from the City of Asheville, and one each from Woodfin, Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Montreat and Weaverville. Board meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 2 PM at MSD Administrative offices on Riverside Dr. near the plant, and are open to the public.

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