 Westar Energy has initiated a variety of programs to preserve the quality of the air, land and water on and around its properties. These innovative, award-winning projects aid Westar Energy in complying with the Clean Air Act, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and other environmental requirements. To protect the quality of groundwater, Westar Energy does not use underground storage tanks and places tight restrictions on the use of herbicides.
Westar Energy uses off-site fueling at most of its facilities to reduce the risk of soil and groundwater contamination from any leaking tanks. When on-site fueling is necessary, safe and controlled, above-ground fuel storage tanks have been installed. Herbicides used by the company meet stringent toxicity, leaching and run-off guidelines. Application of herbicides is only allowed a safe distance from aquatic areas. Surface water and groundwater that are used to cool plant systems’ steam are used again to create wetland habitats.
Westar Energy has created nine wetlands with discharged water at four of its plants. While the water and vegetation appear simply as excellent habitat to fish, mammals, and waterfowl, they also serve as final treatment steps for pH moderation, dechlorination, thermal stabilization and surfactant and particulate reduction.
These wetland cells, coupled with extensive native grass plantings, also help improve water quality by reducing erosion and slowing runoff. Westar Energy also works with agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Duck Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, the Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and The Nature Conservancy to create and restore wetlands. These efforts have led to creation or enhancement of nearly 7,000 acres of wetlands, which have multiple benefits for wildlife, soil loss and improving water quality.
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