Meta Datacenter Discharges Rare Bacterium into Wyoming Sewers

A routine water‑testing inspection in Cheyenne, Wyoming, uncovered a rare bacterium in the wastewater released from a large Meta data‑center under construction. The 801,000‑gallon sample, which was discharged into the city’s sewer system, contained Cupriavidus gilardii, a microorganism that can pose health risks in high concentrations. Although the effluent was never intended for the public drinking supply, the discovery has raised concerns among environmental regulators and local residents.

The finding comes amid a growing list of alleged pollution incidents and regulatory violations across the state, prompting officials to review the environmental safeguards of major infrastructure projects. Meta’s contractor, which managed the site’s wastewater treatment, has been asked to provide detailed documentation of its treatment processes and to demonstrate that the discharge meets all applicable state and federal standards. Meanwhile, the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality has opened an investigation to determine whether the presence of the bacterium reflects a broader issue with the data center’s water management practices.

If the investigation confirms that the discharge failed to meet regulatory requirements, Meta could face significant penalties and be required to implement additional treatment measures. The incident underscores the need for stringent monitoring of industrial wastewater, especially from large technology facilities, to protect public health and maintain environmental integrity.