A wastewater treatment plant in Whatcom County Water District No. 13 has been recognized by the Washington Department of Ecology for its perfect performance in 2012.

The local plant is one of 107 wastewater treatment facilities across the state given an Outstanding Wastewater Treatment Plant Award. The award-winning plants passed all environmental tests, analyzed all samples, turned in all state-required reports and avoided permit violations during 2012.

It is the first time the plant in Whatcom County Water District No. 13 has been recognized with the award, according to the ecology department.

Ecology officials say wastewater treatment plants are the first line of defense to protect public health and the health of lakes, rivers and Puget Sound.

The 107 wastewater treatment plants with perfect performance last year measures up to the 108 award recipients in 2011, 104 in 2010, and 92 in both 2008 and 2009, according to the ecology department.