bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wholesale Water Systems Offer Solutions
Authors: Grove Elizabeth
Published: February 2018

Small systems are constantly being challenged to meet increasing demands from numerous sectors while keeping costs affordable for their customers. New and proposed regulatory demands, supply demands, and a dwindling pool of potential employees are a few of the areas squeezing small system resources. This column discusses how wholesale water systems are one way to alleviate these pressures.
Regulations in 2000 and beyond
Authors: Pontius Frederick W.
Published: February 2018

Water‐related rules are reviewed to help utilities plan strategically and achieve compliance within required time frames.

To meet the demands of future regulations, water utilities will need to anticipate and strategically plan for future regulatory requirements. Regulatory trends for 2000 and beyond are reviewed so that water utilities may achieve compliance within required time frames. This article is Journal AWWA's annual review of the US Environmental Protection Agency's drinking water regulatory agenda under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
What's Ahead for Small Systems?
Authors: Saxena Sanjay
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the responses of five small water system operators when asked what their visions of the future of small water systems included.
Enhancing AWWA's world presence
Authors: DeBoer Jon
Published: February 2018

Communicating globally, exporting leadership and know‐how, and supporting foreign exchange programs are among the ways the organization can expand its international value.
Effects of UV irradiation on organic matter
Authors: Shaw Jeffrey P. , Malley James P. , Willoughby Susan A.
Published: February 2018

Many paired t‐tests showed—at a 95 percent confidence level—no evidence that UV treatment increased BDOC or AOC.

The effects of low‐pressure mercury‐vapor ultraviolet (UV) irradiation at 254 nm on the biological regrowth potential of two surface water and two groundwater sources are reported. Because of possible effects of the pending Ground Water Rule, UV disinfection is being studied as an alternative to chlorination. Water samples to be tested were separated into hydrophilic and hydrophobic fractions. The concentration of biodegradable dissolved organic carbon (BDOC) was measured in nonfractionated and fractionated water samples collected before and after UV treatment at a dosage of 130 mW·s/cm2. Two methods were compared in these analyses: a 30‐day BDOC and a 5‐day assimilable organic carbon (AOC) test. Many paired t‐tests showed (at a 95 percent confidence level) no evidence that UV treatment increased BDOC or AOC. Because results differed in water from different sources, utilities considering UV treatment should evaluate the potential for biological regrowth in their own distribution systems.
Nor Any Drop to Drink
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the problem of supplying everyone in the world with safe drinking water and sanitation, in particular to the urban poor. Included in his article is the six‐point integrated strategy for improving management of urban water resources that was adopted by the Second World Water Forum.
Small Systems in British Columbia
Authors: Green Ron , Benjamin Lawrence
Published: February 2018

This article describes how small water systems are organized in British Columbia; discusses the two separate jurisdictions for public water supply systems with respect to policies, procedures, and funding; describes how the new Safe Drinking Water Regulation became effective in 1992 and made disinfection of surface supplies mandatory; and states that although operator certification is not required, the use of certified operators is encouraged, especially for complex facilities.
Chloroform: Science, Policy, and Politics
Authors: Pontius Frederick W.
Published: February 2018

As part of the Stage 1 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts (D/DBP) Rule, the US Environmental Protection Agency set a maximum contaminant level goal for chloroform at zero. This action touched off a firestorm of criticism, both technical and policy‐related, from several corners. The agency was accused of sacrificing science at the political alter on the one hand and praised for not changing a long‐standing policy on the other. This article discusses how the saga of chloroform regulation mirrors the controversies raised when advances in science collide with traditional policies and national politics.
Determining disinfection needs
Authors: Bellamy William , Carlson Kenneth , Pier David , Ducoste Joel , Carlson Mark
Published: February 2018

The integrated disinfection design framework can help utilities lower disinfectant dosages and costs and minimize formation of disinfection by‐products.

The integrated disinfection design framework (IDDF) is a new approach for determining disinfection requirements for a water treatment facility. The framework may be applied in place of the procedures in the US Environmental Protection Agency's Surface Water Treatment Rule guidance manual. Potential benefits include lower disinfectant dosages, reduced disinfectant costs, and reduced formation of disinfection by‐products. The feasibility of the IDDF was presented in an AWWA Research Foundation–sponsored project completed in 1998. A user‐friendly model has been developed based on the original IDDF concepts; this model allows utility personnel, consultants, and regulators to determine site‐specific disinfection requirements. The model has four components or modules: (1) hydraulic characteristics, (2) disinfectant demand–decay, (3) inactivation kinetics, and (4) disinfection by‐product formation. Implementation of the IDDF at the Aurora (Colo.) Water Department is in progress with a chlorine dioxide dosage reduction of approximately 15 percent. Other IDDF implementation studies have indicated that primary disinfectant dosages can be reduced by 8–35 percent with a corresponding reduction in disinfection by‐products.
A Heap of Trouble
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the problem of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds being introduced into the environment from animal manure and therefore, contaminating groundwater and surface water. He describes the TMDL process (total maximum daily loads) and controlling nonpoint source pollution.
A new process for electrocoagulation
Authors: Mills Donald
Published: February 2018

For water providers needing to make the most of scarce resources, a new electrocoagulation system treats contaminated supplies effectively and economically.

An innovative electrocoagulation process has been shown to be effective in treating raw water sources for the production of potable water. The process is a boon to water reuse because it has the capability to remove heavy metals from contaminated water streams and to treat leachates from mining and landfill sites. Study results showed bacteria (i.e., E. coli) were typically reduced by a factor of log 4.17 to concentrations below the detection limit. Molybdenum was reduced from 9.95 to 0.006 mg/L in leachate at a mining site, and iron was reduced from 130 to 0.015 mg/L in leachate from a landfill site. In the new process, coaxial electrodes permit continuous flow at rates up to 225,000 L/min (5.944 × 104 gpm) and above. The technology has no moving parts and operates at a fraction of the cost of other water treatment systems. Because the flocculent produced is chemically inert and does not leach back contaminants, it is readily disposable. In addition to describing the electrocoagulation process, the author discusses the critical role water electrolysis intermediate radicals play in removing bacteria.
DBP formation during chloramination
Authors: Diehl Alicia C. , Speitel Gerald E. , Symons James M. , Krasner Stuart W. , Hwang Cordelia J. , Barrett Sylvia E.
Published: February 2018

Batch study results may help utilities select appropriate chloramination conditions to limit DBP formation.

Batch experiments were conducted on three diverse water sources to study the formation of dissolved organic halogen (DOX), trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs), and cyanogen halides (CNX) during chloramination. The authors used preformed chloramines to examine the effect of pH, mass ratio of chlorine to ammonia–nitrogen (Cl2 to N), and bromide concentration on disinfection by‐product (DBP) formation. Formation of specific DBPs as well as the group parameter DOX was greatest at low pH and high Cl2‐to‐N ratios and followed the general trend of decreasing with increasing pH and decreasing Cl2‐to‐N ratio. Bromide addition increased the concentration of bromine‐substituted DBPs and DOX. These experiments demonstrated that because of dihaloacetic acid formation, HAA formation is more problematic during chloramination than THM formation. Because the specific DBPs measured in this research (THMs, six HAAs, and CNX) accounted for no more than 35 percent of the DOX concentration, utilities may want to consider both specific DBPs and DOX in selecting appropriate chloramination conditions.
Public Notification Rule Revised
Authors: Pontius Frederick W.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a revised public notification regulation that was published by the US Environmental Protection Agency on May 4, 2000. The final rule streamlines the requirements in the regulation to more effectively meet the objectives of the public notification process. An entirely new Code of Federal Regulations subpart is created, which incorporates the new provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act as amended in 1996.
Accounting for lost water
Authors: Buie Leslie M.
Published: February 2018

One county found ways to identify and reduce the amount of lost water while realizing efficiencies and cost savings.

This article reports on efforts by DeKalb County (Ga.) to identify, measure, and reduce the amount of unaccounted‐for water. This information may help those with similar concerns and interests to realize that this type of effort can benefit customers. DeKalb County used methodical and logical analysis of data that reflected the county's experience as well as applied guidance from other studies and research to resolve the issue of unaccounted‐for water.
Defining a Guideline for Uranium
Authors: Pontius Frederick W.
Published: February 2018

In this article, US Environmental Protection Agency's proposed approach to setting a concentration for uranium that protects public health is compared with that of other regulatory and health agencies.
Adding PAC to remove DOC
Authors: Campos Carlos , Schimmoller Larry , Mariñas Benito J. , Snoeyink Vernon L. , Baudin Isabelle , Laîné Jean‐Michel
Published: February 2018

An upflow floc blanket reactor installed upstream of ultrafiltration membranes assists adsorption of dissolved organic carbon.

The hybrid process resulting from adding powdered activated carbon (PAC) to ultrafiltration (UF) reactors is being used to remove organic compounds in full‐scale drinking water treatment plants. One way to increase the adsorption efficiency of PAC is to add it to continuously stirred tank reactors (CSTRs) or to plug flow reactors installed upstream of the membranes. Additionally, the PAC that is recovered from the membrane backwash can be recycled to a floc blanket reactor (FBR) installed upstream of the PAC/CSTR–UF process. This study developed an adsorption model that predicts the removal of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the FBR–PAC/CSTR–UF system. The model was verified experimentally using two commercially available PACs in a laboratory‐scale pilot unit. Removal of DOC by coagulation with aluminum salts and adsorption on the recycled PAC in the FBR substantially reduced carbon use. The model was used to assess the effect of various operating parameters on DOC adsorption efficiency and to determine optimal operating conditions.
Evaluating TOC analytical results
Authors: Najm Issam , Marcinko Joseph , Oppenheimer Joan
Published: February 2018

Tests indicate particulate fraction of total organic carbon in a natural water is more accurately measured by the combustion method than by the ultraviolet–persulfate oxidation method.

The Disinfectants/Disinfection By‐products (D/DBP) Rule includes total organic carbon (TOC) as a regulatory compliance parameter with the idea that TOC concentration is a direct indicator of the potential for DBP formation upon chlorination. A comprehensive study was conducted to evaluate the ability of the two most common methods—ultraviolet (UV)–persulfate oxidation and catalytic combustion—to measure the particulate fraction of the TOC in water and determine whether this fraction contributes to DBP formation. Results showed that particulate TOC fraction in a natural water was more accurately measured by the combustion method. Therefore, the method used by a water utility to evaluate TOC removal through a water treatment plant can significantly affect the chemical dosages required for regulatory compliance and treatment cost. Furthermore, chlorination testing results suggest that the DBP formation reactions may not be affected by particulate TOC, leading the authors to propose that dissolved organic carbon rather than TOC is a more appropriate indicator of DBP formation potential in water treatment.
Using UV to inactivate Cryptosporidium
Authors: Clancy Jennifer L. , Bukhari Zia , Hargy Thomas M. , Bolton James R. , Dussert Bertrand W. , Marshall Marilyn M.
Published: February 2018

Even extremely low dosages of ultraviolet light can be highly effective for inactivating Cryptosporidium oocysts.

Recent studies have shown that Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts demonstrate high susceptibility to low dosages of medium‐pressure ultraviolet (UV) light. These investigations have raised several questions, which include determination of minimum medium‐pressure UV dosages necessary to inactivate C. parvum oocysts, elucidation of differences (if any) between medium‐ and low‐pressure UV light for inactivating C. parvum oocysts, and evaluation of medium‐pressure UV effectiveness in inactivating oocysts suspended in poorer quality water. To compare low‐ and medium‐pressure UV, the authors exposed oocysts suspended in deionized water to UV delivered by either medium‐ or low‐pressure UV lamps at bench scale using a collimated beam apparatus. The applied UV dosages ranged from 3 to 33 mJ/cm2, and oocyst inactivation was assessed using the neonatal mouse infectivity assay. At 3 mJ/cm2, medium‐pressure UV showed a 3.4‐log inactivation of oocysts, and low‐pressure UV showed a 3.0‐log inactivation, demonstrating medium‐ and low‐pressure UV did not differ significantly in inactivating C. parvum oocysts.
Building a better protozoa data set
Authors: Connell Kevin , Rodgers Crystal C. , Shank‐Givens Heather L. , Scheller Jennifer , Pope Misty L. , Miller Ken
Published: February 2018

Comparisons of ICR and ICRSS data indicate the Supplemental Surveys' improved methodology and procedures yield more accurate data on protozoa occurrence.

The Information Collection Rule Supplemental Surveys (ICRSS) were designed to supplement the ICR with more reliable information on protozoa occurrence. The surveys benefitted from measures that were not part of the ICR, notably an improved protozoa detection method, an expanded quality control (QC) program, and a centralized sample control center. Based on analyses of data from the protozoa monitoring portion, the ICRSS have yielded measurable improvements in the quality of protozoa occurrence data available to support current rulemaking efforts. Compared with ICR results, ICRSS field sample data are characterized by higher detection rates and fewer potential false‐positive results. Data from more than 400 source water QC samples analyzed during the surveys indicated mean Cryptosporidium recoveries of 43 percent and mean Giardia recoveries of 53 percent from field samples spiked with laboratory strains of these organisms. Results confirmed that the performance of methods 1622 and 1623 during monitoring of 87 US source waters was consistent with their anticipated performance, demonstrated through interlaboratory validation studies conducted before surveys began.
trend beat
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

Topics covered in this column include: bioaugmentation, the addition of billions of microorganisms to wastewater to achieve a range of process objectives such as improved operational efficiency and reduced levels of ammonia, grease, sludge, and odors; a new water treatment facility in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, that will be the first in the US to use biological treatment to remove manganese; an innovative and economical sidestream ozone injection system designed to disinfect drinking water in high‐pressure applications for the Greater Vancouver Water District; and, a personal immersion system (PIS) that consists of two conventional personal computers and two standard projectors with a special projection screen and interaction equipment.
Communities Banking on Congress to Find Common Ground on Water Infrastructure Financing
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the American Water Works Association's (AWWA's) recommendations to the new incoming Bush administration concerning the pressing need among local communities for financial help in upgrading water infrastructure. AWWA recommends two major steps: an expansion or reform of the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and other existing programs and/or the creation of a new financing mechanism; and, full use of other avenues for increasing access to capital.
Ozone and Biofiltration Optimization For Multiple Objectives
Authors: Carlson Kenneth H. , Amy Gary L.
Published: February 2018

Biofiltration can be an effective drinking water treatment process when ozonation is practiced beforehand. The objectives and therefore the designs of these two processes are usually not related to biological treatment goals, and no effort has been made to determine the compatibility of the goals of these integrated treatment processes. The optimal application of ozone (O3) for disinfection is the minimum dose that provides a target level of microorganism inactivation. This dose was equivalent to the optimal O3 dose for biological treatment, defined as the minimum dose that would achieve the maximum relative BDOCrapid removal. Additionally, the O3 process is limited with respect to controlling the formation of BDOCrapid. Increasing the O3 dose beyond the optimal dose will result in little additional BDOCrapid formation, little additional release of biodegradable dissolved organic carbon to the distribution system, and an increase in the cost of operation. A conceptual approach for optimizing the O3 and biofiltration processes for biological treatment objectives is described for three case studies. The results indicate that biological treatment goals can be satisfied to a large degree while simultaneously meeting other drinking water treatment objectives such as disinfection and particle removal.
Radionuclides rule clears compliance picture
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the radionuclides compliance requirements for US water systems that will go into effect in 3 years, according to the “rads” rule published in the December 7, 2000 Federal Register. Topics covered include: a list of the regulated radionuclides; monitoring requirements; treatment technologies; and, enforcement.
The Pressure's On
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his monthly column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses how the water industry management is feeling pressured to succeed in a demanding environment that features an aging infrastructure, growing consumer demands, increasingly stringent federal mandates, a changing workforce, and in some cases, diminishing water resources. He describes how a comprehensive approach that includes measures to gauge the industry's performance in meeting consumer needs, fulfilling social responsibilities to public health and the environment, and helping employees learn and grow will give the industry a much better picture of its success in adding value to the services provided.
Private Water Company Must Pay Prevailing Wages
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The Missouri Court of Appeals has ruled that a not‐for‐profit private water corporation providing water to a city was subject to the prevailing wage law regarding its construction of a water intake and treatment plant.
DISCUSSION OF: “Evaluation of USEPA Method 1622 for detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in stream waters”
Authors: Connell Kevin , Clancy Jennifer , Regli Stig , Messner Mike , Rodgers Crystal , Fricker Colin , Telliard William A.
Published: February 2018

This discussion concerning USEPA Method 1622 for Cryptosporidium detection in stream waters points out the fact that the performance assessment resulting from the use of the outdated version of the method in the article by Simmons in the January 2001 issue of the Journal of the American Water Works Association does not reflect the performance of the interlaboratory validated version of the method. The authors of the Simmons article report lower recoveries in source water than those achieved by the seven laboratories that generated data in the US Environmental Protection Agency's Information Collection Rule Supplemental Surveys (ICRSS) and AWWARF studies and suggest that the method is inherently compromised by excessive turbidity. Contrary to the very limited data in the Simmons article, the data from the much larger ICRSS data set demonstrate that there is no relationship between method recovery and turbidity.
WHERE ARE WE HEADED? Ten Key Trends AND DEVELOPMENTS IN THE WATER INDUSTRY
Authors: Maxwell Steve
Published: February 2018

This article discusses 10 overarching trends and developments that are characterizing the US drinking water industry and will combine to shape its future. They are: rising water prices; stronger enforcement of regulations; broader regulatory focus; increasing privatization; greater water reuse; more and better information; continuing industry consolidation; new technology; conservation and more efficient use; and, innovative policies and revolutionary philosophies toward water use.
DAWNING of a New Age
Authors: Duranceau Steven J.
Published: February 2018

For the drinking water community, long‐term water supply; distribution system repair, replacement, and rehabilitation; privatization; e‐commerce; cross‐connections; public perception; and, vulnerability to and security from terrorism are a few of the challenges that will redefine how our profession solves critical drinking water issues in the future. The important thing to remember is that opportunities are present in challenges. These opportunities will manifest as a result of the need for the water community to provide a higher level of service to consumers under more stringent conditions. Because more stringent and more comprehensive regulations will present additional cost burdens to the water community in the foreseeable future, a significant challenge will be to balance compliance mandates and control costs. These costs will have to be recovered in some form or other.
SPENT filter backwash water CONTAMINANTS AND TREATMENT STRATEGIES
Authors: Arora Harish , Di Giovanni George , Lechevallier Mark
Published: February 2018

Twenty‐five representative water treatment plants were surveyed to compare differences in microbial, physical, and chemical water quality of raw waters and spent filter backwash waters (SFBWs). On the basis of the observed Giardia and Cryptosporidium levels, it was determined that a recycle ratio of 5–10% would be sufficient to minimize the impact of protozoa on ambient raw water. Using the cell culture–polymerase chain reaction method, infectious Cryptosporidium oocysts were observed in raw water and SFBW samples. The presence of particles in the SFBW samples increased the potassium permanganate demand by a factor of 5.5 and the chlorine dioxide demand by a factor of 4.0. However, the presence of particles in SFBWs did not affect the inactivation of Cryptosporidium. Conventional treatment of SFBW with polymers resulted in excellent removal of turbidity, particles, and microorganisms. A backwashable depth filter can be used in place of a conventional filter for control of Cryptosporidium in clarified SFBW.
UCA™ for the water industry
Authors:   AWWA Utility Communications Architecture Standards Committee
Published: February 2018

In an effort to help water utilities realize significant cost reduction, the AWWA Utility Communications Architecture (UCA) Standards Committee is recommending that the water industry adopt the UCA standard. This is because current monitoring and control systems that are based on proprietary and de facto standard communications protocols require costly custom data‐translation and data‐mapping components. UCA is an existing, proven standard that can significantly take the bite out of such expenses because it eliminates the need for this customization. This Committee Report highlights UCA's benefits to the industry and provides a road map for adopting it. Because UCA is a major advance in monitoring and control system technology, it simplifies system design, implementation, and maintenance, therefore reducing costs in the process.
What Is Quality Worth?
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the importance of quality improvement to water utilities and focuses on the QualServe program as a means to achieving that goal. QualServe was designed by utility personnel to assist utilities in identifying strengths and areas for improvement by self‐assessment, which allows a broad spectrum of the utility's employees to become involved in the improvement process. This has proven to enhance employee buy‐in and teamwork, which are essential any time change is involved. The peer review aspect of the program uses experienced personnel from other utilities to provide an objective and supportive perspective of operations and practices.
Assessing Acute Diarrhea from sulfate in drinking water
Authors: Backer Lorraine C. , Esteban Emilio , Rubin Carol H. , Kieszak Stephanie , McGeehin Michael A.
Published: February 2018

Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act in 1996 directed the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to jointly conduct research to explore adverse health effects from exposure to sulfate in drinking water. The studies described here were undertaken to provide USEPA with information about these health effects, especially as they affect sensitive subpopulations such as infants and travelers. A planned study of infants had to be abandoned when the authors were unable to identify enough exposed individuals. Some information was gleaned from a questionnaire that included questions about using tap water to mix infant formula. An experimental trial with adult volunteers did not uncover a significant dose‐response association between acute exposure to sodium sulfate and reports of diarrhea. An expert workshop convened to review these findings and the existing sulfate literature concluded there was insufficient scientific evidence on which to base a regulation creating a maximum contaminant level for sulfate in drinking water. On the basis of this work, the literature, and the recommendation of the expert workshop, USEPA will decide whether and at what level to regulate sulfate in drinking water.
Microbial Regrowth in household Water Storage Tanks
Authors: Evison Lilian , Sunna Nawal
Published: February 2018

In parts of the world with severe water shortages, distribution mains may only supply water for a few hours each week, and householders must store the water in tanks on the rooftop or in a reservoir beneath the house. When these intermittent supplies are stored over a period of several days, water quality may rapidly deteriorate, creating a health risk to the consumer. A study conducted in Amman, Jordan, examined the extent and characteristics of microbial regrowth in different types of household storage tanks as well as the parameters influencing this regrowth. Study results showed that heterotrophic bacterial counts increased significantly from log 1.7 to log 5.2 and log 5.7 cfu/mL after water was stored for four and seven days. Microbial regrowth was dominated by Actinomycetes, Pseudomonas species, and Moraxella spp. The different materials of the household tanks (polyethylene, fiberglass, and cast iron) did not significantly influence the total bacterial count of the stored water. Temperature was the factor that most influenced microbial regrowth in household tanks. More research on this topic is needed, particularly to identify the most effective means of reducing the scale of regrowth. To reduce the public health hazard associated with drinking stored water (especially in hot climates), the authors propose various strategies including point‐of‐use devices, secondary chlorination in household tanks, and annual tank cleaning.
Small Systems Give High Marks to AWWA's Capacity Assistance Project
Authors: Clark Patsy
Published: February 2018

This article describes the Capacity Assistance Project (CAP) that was originally developed by members of what is now AWWA's Small Systems Division. The idea has evolved into a workbook, a self‐help tool that is intended to help the managers of small water utilities think through every aspect of their systems ‐ equipment, personnel, and rates ‐ as well as existing and future regulations that may affect the utility. This analytical process helps managers identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. To make this process relatively quick and easy, the workbook has been set up in a simple, fill‐in‐the‐blank format and attempts to address every aspect of a water system that should be considered.
Performance Assessment in Us Water and Wastewater Utilities
Authors: Paralez Linda L.
Published: February 2018

Performance assessment is not a new quality measurement technique, dating back to the 1930s. But it has only been in the past few years that water and wastewater utilities have used performance assessment to better plan, improve, and manage their facilities. The key to ensuring that investments in performance assessment are worthwhile is to use the data that are gathered. This article explores that notion and looks at the current state of the industry by examining information gathered from three sources: a 2001 custom survey known as the Water and Wastewater Utility Survey; a 1998 survey sponsored by the Government Accounting standards Board; and a five‐year benchmarking study by the Western Regional Water Utilities Benchmarking Group. The resulting findings provide some insight into applying performance assessment techniques to water supply and wastewater systems. Traditionally, relatively few water utilities use operational data to drive decision‐making. The findings show that some utilities are using performance assessment, but overall, the techniques can be more widely and more consistently used. All utilities can benefit from sharing lessons learned and information gathered that lead to more effective practices. These findings will encourage continued investment in better data analysis systems, management of information, and use of that information to support better decision‐making.
Chromium VI: a review of recent developments
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the regulatory fallout for the suddenly high‐profile inorganic contaminant chromium VI, resulting from the popular movie “Erin Brockovich.” Total Chromium was long regulated at 50 ug/L by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and states until USEPA in 1991 set a maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) of 100 ug/L and an MCL to match. When the USEPA set its total chromium MCLG 10 years ago, it rejected public comments claiming ingested chromium VI is carcinogenic and therefore should have its MCLG set at zero. The agency determined that because humans detoxify ingested chromium VI, it only presents a risk of noncancer endpoints if it is ingested at levels high enough to saturate the body's normal detoxification mechanisms.
Satellite Management—Is It the Way to Go?
Authors: Odegard Kevin
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the experiences of one utility as a satellite management agency (SMA) in Washington State that indicate there are both pros and cons to acquiring and then operating small water systems and individual wells. In the state of Washington, an SMA owns or operates multiple public water systems within a region under an approved ownership/operation plan. SMAs understand the pros and cons of owning and operating small water systems. On the positive side, they create continuity and reliability for rural water systems. They are also a common entity that the customers of small systems can trust to provide all the benefits of “big city” services. On the downside, newly acquired systems sometimes need expensive upgrades, which can undermine the financial stability of a utility's SMA operations.
Finding the optimal flocculation point with a streaming potential instrument
Authors: Wang Junli
Published: February 2018

This article describes a new online streaming potential instrument, called a streaming potential system (SPS), which provides two measurement signals, an absolute signal and a relative operating signal. The absolute signal measures the net charge density with charge polarity and magnitude, in which the neutral charge point is always displayed as zero. The relative signal is adjustable so that the zero point can be set to the desired operating point. Operators can use the absolute signal to determine the theoretical operating point. The relative signal is used when the desired operating point is different from the theoretical point.
Using GIS Technology to Manage Infrastructure capital assets
Authors: Booth Ron , Rogers John
Published: February 2018

This article reports on a geographic information system‐based decision‐support system that can enhance an organization's ability to plan maintenance and replacement, forecast funding needs, reduce risks and costs, and improve credibility with customers and funding authorities.
What Lies Ahead?
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr reviews the events of 2001 and outlines what he sees lying ahead for the water profession, such as security of critical infrastructure, a reprioritization of critical infrastructure funds for vulnerability assessments, and at least eight different regulations from the US Environmental Protection Agency that have compliance dates before 2008.
Ratepayers' Merger Costs Limited to Service‐Related Expenses
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

Regarding the merger costs of two merging water companies, an Illinois appellate court ruled that ratepayers were responsible for only the merger costs related to provision of service.
Infrastructure Manager Software Provides Comprehensive, Multidiscipline Plant Assessments
Authors: Elliott Larry E. , Stecklein Maria
Published: February 2018

This article discusses an electronic manual, produced by the American Water Works Association Research Foundation (AwwaRF), called “The Water Treatment Plant Infrastructure Assessment Manager” (AwwaRF project 460). The CD‐ROM and user's manual offers a multidisciplinary approach for assessing the condition and functionality of a treatment plant's infrastructure, including its subsystems and components. The manual's state‐of‐the‐art assessment techniques, coupled with user‐friendly software that records and represents the data, allow managers to efficiently conduct meaningful and standardized field assessments that can then be used by staff at all levels of an organization. The infrastructure manager software can be customized to reflect the specifics of an individual plant, and users can input more detailed information to generate more detailed reports. The infrastructure manager software allows utilities to reduce the amount of maintenance that is performed as a reaction to deteriorating conditions. Instead, they can initiate predictive maintenance and rehabilitation programs that are less costly but still produce safe, dependable drinking water.
Effect of PHOSPHATE inhibitors on lead release from pipes
Authors: Edwards Marc , McNeill Laurie S.
Published: February 2018

Hexametaphosphate tends to increase release of both particulate and soluble lead to drinking water. In this study, for every milligram per litre of residual hexametaphosphate, soluble lead increased by ∼ 1.6 mg/L after 72‐h stagnation in pure lead pipes compared with the same condition dosed with orthophosphate. Utilities need to consider these adverse effects whenever polyphosphate is used to prevent scaling or iron precipitation; in fact, polyphosphates cannot be recommended for lead corrosion control. Although soluble lead release in these experiments was in reasonable agreement with predictions of solubility models, particulate lead release was dominant. In some cases, a peak in lead release was observed as water was held stagnant in pipes. Analysis of these data indicated that particulate lead can reattach to the pipe surface under some circumstances.
Draft LT2ESWTR Out of the Box
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This column summarizes a draft proposal of the Long‐Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2ESWTR) released last November by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Although signers of the regulatory agreement were able to recommend quantified log removal and inactivation credits for 15 treatment and management options, they left it up to the USEPA to develop specific design and implementation criteria for each option. The draft is the first time the agency has disclosed its conclusions regarding these criteria, which are discussed in this column.
High stakes, high skills
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the importance of a competent and skilled workforce to deal with the sophisticated water treatment, monitoring, and security technology that will be in place in the near future. He stresses how a human‐technology connection ensures productivity and effectively protects public health.
Few surprises with final LT1ESWTR
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

With the recent promulgation of the Long‐Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1ESWTR) by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), all public water systems using surface water or groundwater under the direct influence (GWUDI) of surface water should be in compliance 2005 with tougher new federal requirements to control chlorine‐resistant Cryptosporidium. This month's column discusses the essential requirements of the LT1ESWTR.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know (Well Almost) About Financial Options for Small Water Systems
Authors: Harvey David J.
Published: February 2018

This article describes how managers of small water systems, who don't have a financial background, now have an online resource to help them achieve financial capacity under the 1996 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). A document titled “A Guidebook of Financial Tools” is available online at www.epa.gov/efinpage/guidbk98/index.htm> This book is a reference work intended to provide an overview of a wide range of ways and means that are useful in paying for sustainable environmental systems. It is divided into 10 sections, presenting outline information on approximately 340 financial tools. Each tool is described, along with its actual and potential uses, advantages and limitations, and references for further information. The Guidebook contains forms for users to provide comments and suggestions, and it will continue to be revised and updated as necessary.
Nevada's CWS Managers assess the CCRs
Authors: Benson Marnee , Walker Mark , Montecinos Crystel
Published: February 2018

The 1996 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) require community water systems (CWSs) to provide an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) to their customers (USEPA, 1998). The CCR must contain information about the source and quality of delivered water and characterize any risks from exposure to detected contaminants. The content of the report and the method of delivery are regulated by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and individual states. The first CCRs were delivered to water customers in October 1999, and subsequent reports are due by July 1 each year.
Alternative Service Delivery Models
Authors: Patrick Roger
Published: February 2018

This article is part of a continuing series that draws on the findings from the recently completed AWWA Research Foundation project, “A Strategic Assessment of the Future of Water Utilities.” The project team worked in conjunction with water industry leaders to identify internal and external trends expected to influence the water industry, develop a set of scenarios for the operating environment that water utilities might face in the future, and identify the attributes of the successful utility of the future. One of the key findings of the project was that alternative service delivery models can significantly improve productivity. This article describes the challenges and opportunities that alternative service delivery modes create for water utilities.
Wisconsin Challenges Tribe's Power to Regulate Water Quality
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

Is the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) empowered to treat a particular Indian tribe as a state for purposes of certain water quality rules? The US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit ruled that it is.
Think private, stay public
Authors: Parrott James A.
Published: February 2018

Public organizations may implement private strategies by emphasizing training, cost reduction, revenue enhancements, communication, teamwork, regulatory compliance, and increased productivity with the strategic direction of an organization. This article describes how Ohio's Butler County Department of Environmental Services utilized the competitive operation formula: Time + Energy + Associates + Money = Success.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Outsourcing
Authors: Stapf Joe
Published: February 2018

Journal Editor Marcia Lacey asked Joseph Stapf, Director of Utilities for the City of Wyoming, Michigan, to talk about his experiences with outsourcing and to share his knowledge of how to get the best results when using this tool.
Water Utility Options for Low‐Income Assistance Programs
Authors: Hasson David S.
Published: February 2018

As water rates increase, in many cases faster than the public's ability to pay, greater numbers of water utility customers may experience difficulty paying their water bills, even for basic levels of service. Fortunately, there are many ways that utility managers can address affordability issues, including assistance programs that benefit both customers and the water utility. This article discusses the experiences of the City of Portland, Oregon, with more than 15 years of helping its low‐income customers pay their bills on time and avoid shutoffs.
Preventing Water Quality deterioration in Finished Water Storage Facilities
Authors: Martel Katherine D. , Kirmeyer Gregory J. , Murphy Brian M. , Noran Paul F. , Kirby Lynn , Lund Theodore W. , Anderson Jerry L. , Medhurst Richard , Caprara Michael
Published: February 2018

Finished water storage facilities play a key role in maintaining the quality of drinking water ultimately received by consumers. Without proper design, operation, and maintenance of these facilities, stored water may easily become stagnant and subject to loss of chlorine residual, as well as bacterial regrowth, contaminant entry, and a host of other water quality problems. Given that finished water storage facilities are part of the country's problem with aging infrastructure and that distribution system water quality is increasingly becoming a focus of regulators and customers, water utilities need all the tips they can get to better maintain these facilities. This paper outlines a five‐step approach to developing an operations and maintenance program for finished water storage facilities. The five steps are: understand your facility; define the water quality problems; evaluate alternatives to address water quality issues and select the best solutions; implement good management practices and monitor effectiveness; and, develop standard operating procedures. If utility managers implement this stepwise approach, the quality of water in the distribution system will most likely improve, which will improve public health protection and regulatory compliance. To be successful, though, this approach needs support from utility management to provide the resources operations staff will need to perform the work. For utilities that do not have a tank operations and maintenance program, this paper explains the need for such a program, and it offers a practical approach to setting it up. Utilities that already have a program in place may find additional ideas in this paper to refine their program.
The Internet: Beginning of the End or End of the Beginning?
Authors: Patrick Roger
Published: February 2018

This article is part of a continuing series that draws on the findings from the recently completed AWWA Research Foundation project, “A Strategic Assessment of the Future of Water Utilities.” The project team worked in conjunction with water industry leaders to identify internal and external trends expected to influence the water industry, to develop a set of scenarios for the operating environment that water utilities might face in the future, and to identify the attributes of the successful utility of the future.
USEPA Had No Mandatory Duty to Enforce CWA
Authors: Stiegiler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

According to the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, the administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) had no mandatory duty to take enforcement action in response to alleged violations of the Clean Water Act (CWA) by operators of a wastewater treatment plant.
Restoring quality of receiving water gains higher profile
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how increased regulatory pressures on cities to control combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) of pollutants to receiving waters are producing innovative engineering to improve water quality in surface waters and watersheds.