About Food Processors Water Cooperative
Food Processors Water Cooperative, Inc. is a public water supply located in Timberville, Virginia. This Robert’s Filter designed surface water treatment plant incorporates the Robert’s Filter patented “Manhattan Process” method of High Rate Filtration.
Getting its water from the North Fork of Shenandoah River, treatment begins with disinfection. Disinfection is the process that kills all disease causing and harmful bacteria. The next part of the treatment process includes coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation. This is where the overall condition and clarity is evaluated by certified water treatment personnel. Through various means of laboratory testing, the certified operators determine the treatment chemicals needed and the respective dosages required to effectively clean the water, and make it safe to drink. The final step in the treatment process involves filtration. Four mixed media filters produce the finished product at a rate of 1,360 gallons per minute. The water, which meets all standards set forth by the Virginia Department of Health Office of Water Programs, is now considered potable, which is defined as safe to drink. The finished water is collected and stored in three storage tanks with a total capacity of 3,300,000 gallons. The finished product is delivered to 28 bulk use customers via an underground distribution system. Businesses and residents in the Broadway-Timberville area consume nearly 500,000,000 gallons annually.
Recognized for producing a superior product, the water cooperative has received numerous awards from the Department of Health for Excellence in Operations and Water Treatment Plant Performance.
The water cooperative has been in operation since 1946 and is owned by Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation and Cargill Meat Solutions.
