The key functions of the DES Wastewater Engineering Bureau are: to ensure proper design and construction of wastewater treatment facilities (WWTF); to ensure that the operation and maintenance of WWTFs is in accord with the federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) by conducting compliance inspections, and providing technical assistance, operator training, and operator certification; to certify discharge permits under the federal NPDES to ensure that the WWTFs’ discharges do not violate applicable state rules and regulations; to provide financial assistance in the form of grants and low interest loans for eligible projects; to ensure that industrial discharges to municipal WWTFs do not adversely impact the operation or maintenance of the WWTF; and to ensure that all septage and sludge management activities are performed in accordance with state and federal standards.