bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communication, Accountability, and the Engineer
Authors: Filmon Gary A.
Published: February 2018

Engineers must develop their communications skills and also must increase their accountability for the decisions they make that will affect government policy. Because of the growing public demand for information on costs and alternatives, and the increasing restraint mentality now prevalent in many levels of government, communication and accountability are becoming important areas of responsibility.
Face to Face
Authors: Kimm Victor J. , Preston David B.
Published: February 2018

This discussion examines how well the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) has met its intended goals. The drinking water program is almost two separate programs: one aspect of which is to bring the public water systems into compliance with regulations regarding the traditional contaminants of concern. That is a task of a different character than dealing with the new contaminants of concern, which led in great measure to the SDWA's being passed. Universal monitoring, training and source protection, information dissemination, establishment of MCLs, development of demonstration plants, spills, synthetic organic compounds, and giardiasis are problems covered.
An Experimental Approach to Corrosion Control
Authors: Shull Kenneth E.
Published: February 2018

For more than thirty years the Philadelphia Suburban Water Co. has conducted an ongoing study program to determine the extent of corrosion in its distribution system and to evaluate various treatment methods that could reduce it.
Health Effects of Alternate Disinfectants and Their Reaction Products
Authors: Bull R.J.
Published: February 2018

Chlorine dioxide and its organic reaction products may present a higher risk from acute toxicity than chlorine, combined chlorine, or ozone, but its use may be advantageous when the generation of possibly carcinogenic byproducts by other disinfectants is considered.
Curbing the Distribution Energy Appetite
Authors: Patton James L. , Horsley Michael B.
Published: February 2018

Efforts to reduce energy costs of water distribution should focus on the area of greatest consumption—electrical energy for high‐service pumping. The economic importance of energy cost reduction measures may double, or perhaps triple, within the life of current distribution system improvements; overall, the greatest price increase is expected in the demand charge area.
Pump Systems: What Price Inefficiency?
Authors: Daffer Robert A. , Price John M.
Published: February 2018

Witn the energy crunch, it is more important than ever for utilities to have the most efficient pump system possible. One energy‐saving approach is to base pump system design on “total system analysis,” from the selection of the proper pumps (based on system head curves) to the selection of the proper drivers.
Algae as Sources of Trihalomethane Precursors
Authors: Hoehn Robert C. , Barnes Donald B. , Thompson Barbara C. , Randall Clifford W. , Grizzard Thomas J. , Shaffer Peter T.B.
Published: February 2018

The organic substances most frequently mentioned as precursors of trihalomethanes in public water supplies are the naturally occurring humates found in all surface waters and in many groundwaters. However, laboratory data have shown that algae—both their biomass and their extracellular products—also react readily with chlorine to produce THMs.
How Much Water Supply Capacity Is Enough?
Authors: Boland John J. , Carver Philip H. , Flynn Charles R.
Published: February 2018

Risk management strategies can enable utility managers to select the best compromise between, on the demand side, the risk and the cost of water use restrictions, and on the supply side, the economic, social, and environmental cost of providing increased capacity.
Trihalomethane Levels in Public Water Supplies Drawn From the Sacramento River System
Authors: Nelson Stephen J. , Khalifa Safy
Published: February 2018

All of the finished water samples collected from nine public water supplies treating water obtained from the Sacramento River system contained higher levels of trihalomethanes than the raw water sources; THM levels up to 25 μg/L were found in all the raw waters tested.
Water Supply in the Paris Suburbs: Changing Treatment for Changing Demands
Authors: Schulhof Pierre
Published: February 2018

Increasing demand and decreasing raw water quality have plagued the treatment plants serving the Paris suburbs In recent years. These problems have been partly offset by Improvements implemented gradually at all stages of the treatment train, which make the most of the facilities already in place.
Can Prices Tame the Inflationary Tiger?
Authors: Beattie Bruce R. , Foster Henry S.
Published: February 2018

The past decade has seen a dramatic change in attitude concerning the use of natural resources. We have come to realize that our nation's resources, including water, are finite, and that it is essential to examine the “need” for water in the face of increasing demand from all sectors and a precipitous rise in the cost of providing additional supplies.
Reevaluating Hunter's Model for Residential Water Demand
Authors: Chan Wen‐Yung W. , Wang Lawrence K.
Published: February 2018

Hunter established values for the frequency and duration of water consumption at various residential fixtures. Because his estimates are now regarded as too high, use of Hunter's model may lead to oversizing of water supply piping.
Controlling the Cost of System Maintenance
Authors: Hoye Walter W.
Published: February 2018

When trimming the fat from an already lean budget for pipeline maintenance and repair is impracticable, utilities can by inaugurating common sense cost‐cutting measures achieve significant savings.
New Facilities Increase Capacity, Improve Efficiency
Authors: Campbell Frank C. , Cosens Kenneth W.
Published: February 2018

The Louisville (Ky.) Water Company's new intake crib, raw water conduits, and raw water pump station on the Ohio River meet projected population increases—and demand for water service—over the next twenty years.
An Empirical Kinetic Model of Trihalomethane Formation: Applications to Meet the Proposed THM Standard
Authors: Kavanaugh Michael C. , Trussell Albert R. , Cromer John , Trussell R. Rhodes
Published: February 2018

Even though it is still in the developmental stage, a two‐parameter kinetic model of trihalomethane formation can be useful for predicting THM formation in the distribution system following postchlorination, providing an analytical method for estimating the allowable effluent TOC levels that must be achieved to ensure compliance with the 100‐μg/L THM standard.
Quenching the thirst for potable water in arid Saudi Arabia
Authors: Manwaring James F. , Lee Ramon G. , Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

From shallow contaminated farm wells to one of the world's most advanced reverse osmosis treatment plants, from precise plant operation In urban areas to wholly inadequate operation and maintenance of facilities in rural municipalities, Saudi Arabia's water supply system is one of extreme contrasts. Establishing a safe, steady supply for the nation as a whole is a goal whose success hinges on institution building and massive social change as well as on training and retaining capable personnel at all levels of operation and project management.
Declining block rates can encourage water conservation
Authors: Sawchuk Lloyd
Published: February 2018

Water consumption is a function of complex interactions of physical, social, and economic influences on individual consumers. In the present era of shrinking budgets and rising costs, curbing consumer demand is increasing in importance. Pricing policies are frequently singled out as a tool to manage that demand. Single unit rates and even inclining block rates are promoted by many would‐be conservationists, while declining block rates are seen as encouraging waste. The author suggests that, given measured tendencies of residential and commercial and industrial consumers, declining rate structures can encourage water conservation.
Package Plants: a cost‐effective solution to small water system treatment needs
Authors: Clark Robert M. , Morand James M.
Published: February 2018

Many small and rural water systems have both cost and quality problems. As drinking water quality standards become more stringent, costs will increase and both problems will be compounded. One economical alternative to conventional treatment is the package plant—a self‐contained unit that can be installed at minimum cost.
Controlling trihalomethanes while attaining disinfection
Authors: Vogt Craig , Regli Stig
Published: February 2018

Chloroform, the most common trihalomethane (THM) in drinking water, has been shown to be a carcinogen in rodents and thus poses a risk to consumers of drinking water. Reduction of THMs can be accomplished by using a disinfectant that does not generate THMs, by reducing precursor concentrations prior to chlorination, or by reducing THMs after formation. Modification of existing treatment facilities for THM reduction must be carefully controlled so that the microbiological quality of the drinking water is not compromised.
Denver's ECH2ONERGY program: a boon to homebuyers, a boost for housing
Authors: Miller William H.
Published: February 2018

A joint venture by the area homebuilders association and the water and natural gas and electricity utilities for the purpose of constructing an ideal water and energy‐conserving home resulted in the creation of a new kind of builders’ program. Accepted by area lenders, the program helped buoy a sagging construction market and provided more potential buyers with the opportunity to purchase a home.
One approach to computerized operation
Authors: Tubbs Michael K.
Published: February 2018

Today many water utilities are using computers as an operating aid in pump station, purification plant, and distribution system operations. Dallas Water Utilities first began using a computer in system operations in 1975. The approach used by the utility in specifying and acquiring the data acquisition and control system is described here.
The computer as a tool for meeting future demands
Authors: Stallworth Thomas E.
Published: February 2018

Features to be considered for the efficient operation of any water system during the next decade are meeting future consumption demands, inflation, rising costs of chemicals, energy, labor, and materials. A system should be engineered and constructed to meet future peak demands without interruptions to customers, and to ensure maximum availability of water. To meet these, requirements, a water utility should have an accurate, reliable reporting process. The Atlanta water system has established a computer control system to help accomplish these goals.
Computer administration: plan ahead and stay ahead
Authors: Shields John R. , Hackett Robert M.
Published: February 2018

Computerized systems can enhance administrative control over basic utility operations and at the same time reduce costs. Advance planning in system design is, however, an absolute must for success. The key point to remember is that a computer merely manipulates information, and then only when the information is provided to it in accordance with carefully programmed instructions.
Slow sand filter design and construction in developing countries
Authors: Paramasivam R. , Mhaisalkar V.A. , Berthouex P.M.
Published: February 2018

Sand filtration is an important unit operation in the purification of surface water supplies. It is usually achieved by either slow sand or rapid gravity filters. Because slow sand filters require a larger area than rapid filters, a general misconception prevails among decision makers that they are expensive. This is not, however, always true, and for many small water supplies, slow sand filters are appropriate and cost effective.
Chemical contamination of aquifers on Long Island, New York
Authors: Guerrera August A.
Published: February 2018

On Jun. 21, 1978, the US Environmental Protection Agency determined that the aquifer system underlying Nassau and Suffolk counties on Long Island, N.Y., is the principal source of drinking water for these counties and that if the aquifer system were contaminated, it would create a significant hazard to public health. This “sole source” designation made pursuant to Section 1424 (e) of the Safe Drinking Water Act (Public Law 93‐523) requires that a federal agency may not commit funds (through a grant, loan guarantee, contract, or otherwise) to any project that may contaminate the aquifer system through a recharge zone. Although this designation has only rarely been utilized to influence the commitment of any federal funds on Long Island, it does emphasize the unique hydrologic situation there, where almost three million people are served exclusively with groundwater developed on an island surrounded by salty water.
Trichloroethylene and methyl chloroform in groundwater: A problem assessment
Authors: Petura John C.
Published: February 2018

The national effort of past decades to reduce pollution has made great strides on some fronts, while practically ignoring potential disasters on others. Billions of dollars have been expended to equip and operate air pollution control systems, such as electrostatic precipitators, SO2 scrubbers, and catalytic converters. Similarly, water pollution control has seen tremendous investment in both the industrial and municipal sectors, including advanced waste treatment practices for phosphorus removal, nitrification and denitrification facilities, and tertiary organic removal via carbon adsorption. Groundwater pollution remains a problem of immense importance, and only recently have methods been developed to help decontaminate polluted wells.
The relationship between asbestos and turbidity in raw water
Authors: Severson Richard K. , Harvey James , Polissar Lincoln
Published: February 2018

Determining historical exposure to asbestos in drinking water has been a limiting factor in many studies dealing with waterborne asbestos and disease. Thirty‐five raw water samples from a watershed area were analyzed for turbidity and asbestos levels. A significant correlation between turbidity and asbestos was found. It is concluded that asbestos levels are significantly related to turbidity levels in raw water; thus, it may be possible to use historic turbidity data to assess past imbibed asbestos exposure. However, more research is needed to document this relationship fully.
Water hardness and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Wolman Abel
Published: February 2018

This letter calls attention to two articles summarizing the issue of water hardness and cardiovascular diseases.
Regionalization effort reaffirmed
Authors: Palmer Robert T.
Published: February 2018

This letter disputes the approach taken to regionalization in “The Politics of Regionalization: A Public Perspective” by J.C. Bumstead in the December 1979 Issue of JOURNAL AWWA.
Regional allocation off water resources
Authors: Smith William R.
Published: February 2018

Establishing a regional water management district can be difficult in any area but is especially trying in California, where a multitude of water‐related organizations vie for power. This report details how one such regional effort was initiated, noting the importance of establishing viable reasons for the organization's existence, inventorying powers and comparing them with similar organizations, and developing a good public relations program.
The occurrence and reduction of sodium in drinking water
Authors: Lauch Richard P. , Sorg Thomas J.
Published: February 2018

Sodium, from natural and man‐made sources, occurs in varying amounts in raw and finished drinking waters. How sodium concentration can be increased during drinking water treatment, what concentrations can be expected after treatment, and how sodium in drinking water can be reduced or eliminated are questions discussed in this paper. A literature review on treatment techniques for reduction of total dissolved solids—hence sodium reduction—and a brief introduction on the health effects of sodium are also included.
Cavitation damage to hydraulic structures
Authors: Rahmeyer William J.
Published: February 2018

Cavitation damage can occur to almost any type of hydraulic structure. It is often neglected or ignored in the design and construction of hydraulic structures, and the results can be costly. This paper discusses the different types, causes, and mechanics of cavitation and cavitation damage and the methods for preventing damage to hydraulic structures.
Hydropower update
Authors: Snyder Gary
Published: February 2018

This letter updates information on hydroelectric plants, their capacity and costs which appeared in “Hydropower: A Step Toward Energy Independence” by R.B. Christensen and W.M. Emerson (JOURNAL AWWA February 1981).
What Price Political Involvement?
Authors: Kuranz Joseph H.
Published: February 2018

This article explains the economic and career disadvantages of political participation in the regulatory process by engineers.
A successful training program in Brazil
Authors: Costa Walter P. , Montanari Francis W.
Published: February 2018

The Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (ABES) has conducted a comprehensive, nationwide training program for manpower development in the water supply and sewerage utilities since 1973. This program has included training classes, workshops, and seminars and has trained some 73 000 people. It has produced 11 training manuals, 76 teaching films, and 32 technical books. The training program provides the human resources for the National Sanitation Plan (PLANASA), which has an immediate goal of providing water supply and sewerage services to the urban population of Brazil. It provides an excellent model for the training needed to support the International Drinking Water and Sanitation Decade.
Staff training for water supply projects in the West Indies
Authors: Batchelor Dale , Harem Fred E. , Sankeralli Merlevyn A.
Published: February 2018

An ongoing staff training program and a comprehensive maintenance management system are evolving as a result of recently constructed water treatment plants on the Island of Trinidad. With approximately 130 trained technical staff needed to operate the treatment systems, an accelerated four‐phase training program was Initiated. Local water system engineer and superintendent trainees were sent to the United States for specialized classes and plant tours; a full‐time operator trainer was employed; and, with guidance from outside consultants, operators and maintenance technicians are being trained in specializations by equipment manufacturers and suppliers.
Trainee involvement in the training process
Authors: Austin John H. , Batchelor Dale
Published: February 2018

Training procedures for the staff of six newly constructed water treatment plants in Trinidad, West Indies, were designed with an interactive, self‐propagating approach. Personnel for the new facilities were selected from existing employees, according to a systematic selection process that ascertained individual motivations, needs, and potentials. Subsequently, competent, well‐motivated candidates were involved in a training program emphasizing individual input into system evaluation and implementation, on‐the‐job experience and feedback, trainee development of job aids and instructional materials, and the preparation of trainees to instruct future recruits.
Water quality monitoring in a limited‐use watershed
Authors: Shulters Michael V.
Published: February 2018

Hydrologic characteristics are being defined and effects of human activity on water quality are being investigated for the Bull Run River basin, the source of water supply for Portland, Ore. Water quality data are collected at nine hydrologic stations representing various levels of activity. Characteristics under investigation include sedimentation, periphyton production, and selected physical properties. Since the initial eruption of Mount St. Helens on Mar. 27, 1980, precipitation and dry ash collectors have been used to collect information on conditions resulting from volcanic ashfall in the Bull Run basin. No significant changes in stream pH have been observed since volcanic activity began.
Interstate highways versus watershed protection in New England
Authors: Adams William R.
Published: February 2018

The New England philosophy regarding watershed protection has centered around the precept that drinking water sources should be of the highest quality possible and that every effort should be made to protect such sources from degradation. This has been a fortunate approach because tew of the surface water supplies in the New England area are subject to municipal or industrial waste discharge, a practice that has become the rule rather than the exception in many parts of the United States.
Field management of hazardous spills
Authors: Westgarth Warren C.
Published: February 2018

Field management of hazardous material spills is becoming up to date as modern management procedures and technology are brought to bear on the problem. Federal, state, and local regulations are addressing the problem, and that is creating both aid and confusion in identifying spilled materials that are hazardous and in indicating what can be done with them. Water supplies are particularly vulnerable to spills of hazardous material and need to be protected. Contingency planning on the part of water purveyors is a necessity.
Outbreaks of waterborne disease in the United States: 1971–1978
Authors: Craun Gunther F.
Published: February 2018

Since 1971 a cooperative effort has existed between the Health Effects Research Laboratory, US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), in Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Ga., for the purposes of investigating, documenting, and reporting waterborne disease outbreaks in the United States. Local and state health departments investigate waterborne disease outbreaks and, at times, request assistance from CDC and USEPA. As part of the reporting system, state epidemiologists and engineers in state water supply organizations cooperate in providing data on waterborne outbreaks to these two agencies annually. This report summarizes data reported to USEPA and CDC on waterborne disease outbreaks during 1971–1978.
Comparative performance of dual‐ and mixed‐media filters
Authors: Qureshi Naeem
Published: February 2018

In an ideal filter the pore size decreases progressively with depth. It is generally believed that mixed media, which contain anthracite coal, sand, and high‐density sand, is closer to an ideal filter than dual media, which contain only coal and sand. However, comparative pilot‐ and plant‐scale studies conducted under identical pretreatment conditions at Minneapolis and at other locations indicate very little difference in performance between the two types of filters.
Removing color and chloroform precursors from low turbidity waters by direct filtration
Authors: Scheuch Use E. , Edzwald James K.
Published: February 2018

Direct filtration was evaluated by using synthetic waters with raw color of 55 and 110 Pt‐Co units and Raquette River water with raw water color ranging from 40 to 70 Pt‐Co units and turbidities of 0.68–1.4 ntu. A cationic polyelectrolyte was used; dosages for direct filtration were selected from jar tests. Excellent filtration performance was achieved for color and turbidity. CHCI, precursor reduction was evaluated from CHCI3 formation potential data for raw waters and filter effluent samples. Precursor reductions were 50–60 percent for the synthetic waters and approximately 40 percent for the Raquette River water.
Tailoring design off treatment plants to local conditions
Authors: Prendiville Paul W.
Published: February 2018

A description and comparison of five water treatment systems and supply sources—located in Sydney, Australia; Manila, Philippines; Springfield, Mass.; Rochester, N.Y.; and Long Island, N.Y.—are used as the basis for a discussion of tailoring the design of treatment facilities to local conditions. Water quality, existing treatment facilities, the supply source and method of regulation, climatic conditions, labor intensive design versus automation, equipment maintenance, cost of chemicals, emergency measures, and waste‐solids disposal are considered as they relate to the process train and other considerations relevant to the system.
Will New Orleans miss the Mississippi?
Authors: Kazmann Raphael G.
Published: February 2018

Cities with water supplies that are vulnerable to the vagaries of nature must have alternative means of obtaining water. In the case of New Orleans, Louisiana, the Mississippi River may change its course, leaving the city without its water supply. Alternatives should not only be planned but should be implemented before an emergency occurs.
Leak detection programs recover revenues
Authors: Sowby Stephen E.
Published: February 2018

This article briefly reviews seven case histories of leak detection that reduced water losses significantly. Examples of flow measurement techniques, location and detection methods, costs for typical studies, and benefits of repair are included. The examples illustrate the economic benefits of leak investigations and water audits.
Innovative design overcomes regulatory constraints on elevated water storage
Authors: Haven Robert C.
Published: February 2018

The Washington (D.C.) Suburban Sanitary Commission was delayed in constructing new potable water storage facilities because of adverse public reaction to the appearance of existing standpipes and elevated structures. In response, local governing bodies ruled that all future water storage facilities would be either low‐profile or subsurface. An innovative design overcame public objections and regulatory constraints, resulting in construction of a landmark globe‐tank depicting the earth as viewed from a satellite.
The siderite model of the formation of corrosion‐resistant scales
Authors: Sontheimer Heinrich , Kölle W. , Snoeyink Vernon L.
Published: February 2018

Recent studies suggest that formation of siderite is critical for the formation of highly protective, corrosion‐resistant scales in water distribution pipes. Conditions that tend to hinder siderite formation lead to higher corrosion rates and nonuniform, thick scales.
The search for a corrosion index
Authors: Singley J. Edward
Published: February 2018

Repeated attempts have been made to develop a corrosion index that would be applicable to all waters. These attempts have made it clear that a series of indexes must be employed to take into account the many different types of corrosion as well as all mitigating parameters.
Concrete pipe: is it immune to corrosion?
Authors: Husock Bernard
Published: February 2018

This author disputes the claim made in “Concrete Pressure Pipe Performance in Acid Soils” by Joe A. Willett (JOURNAL AWWA September 1981) that underground prestressed concrete pipe is unaffected by corrosion.
Increasing meter readers’ productivity
Authors: Chiaraluce Marshall T. , Rogala Kenneth A.
Published: February 2018

Productivity is a useful gauge of management's ability and effectiveness in utilizing the work force. In a meter‐reading department, productivity is affected by diverse working conditions, different types and locations of meters, customer demand, number of meter readers, and other comparable factors. This constantly fluctuating environment prompted the New Haven (Conn.) Water Company to refine its planning and scheduling capabilities.
Productivity gains through job reorganization and rotation
Authors: McGuire John H.
Published: February 2018

A productivity measuring system developed to assess the maintenance functions of the distribution division of the Santa Cruz Water Department indicated rapidly decreasing productivity rates. A program was developed with the goal of raising productivity levels through increased motivation based on improved job satisfaction. Job rotation, reduction of crew size to create additional, smaller crews, monthly production meetings, and reorganization decreased sick leave usage and substantially increased productivity levels.
The behavior of asbestos–cement pipe under various water quality conditions: Part 2, theoretical considerations
Authors: Schock Michael R. , Buelow Ralph W.
Published: February 2018

A water chemical model involving the complexation and solubility equilibria of calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, manganese, silica, chloride, orthophosphate, and carbonate has been developed and applied to laboratory pipe‐loop‐coupon and field data on asbestos–cement pipe. Calculation of the saturation states of the relevant solids enables graphic guides to be prepared for the prediction of dosage levels for in‐situ pipe coating by zinc compounds as well as protection afforded by coatings formed by natural inhibitory constituents of the water.
The real price of urban water
Authors: Mann Patrick C. , LeFrancois Paul R.
Published: February 2018

Pricing of water service has not kept up with inflation and rate increases of other public utility services. In this context, two conclusions can be drawn. First, residential and commercial users of urban water have benefited from declining real prices of water. Also, the continued underpricing of urban water may have serious consequences in the forms of massive rate increases to cover system renovation or substandard and unreliable water service.
Drought in the East: 1981 style
Authors: McGowan F.M. , Inhoffer W.R. , Hansler G.M. , Buchanan T.J.
Published: February 2018

The following Roundtable discussion took place June 8,1981, at the Centennial Conference in St. Louis, Mo. The panel consisted of Francis M. McGowan. consulting engineer and discussion leader; Thomas J. Buchanan, assistant chief hydrologist of the US Geological Survey; Gerald M. Hansler, executive director of the Delaware River Basin Commission; and Wendell R., Inhoffer, general superintendent of the Passaic Valley Water Commission.
Energy‐input‐controlled direct filtration to control progressive eutrophication
Authors: Bernhardt Heinz , Schell H.
Published: February 2018

The Wahnbach Process employs energy‐input‐controlled direct filtration with phosphate precipitation, destabilization, agglomeration, and multimedia filtration. This process has reduced the phosphorus input into the Wahnbach Reservoir to a significant extent, which has controlled the nature and amount of algae growing in the reservoir.
Regulations or public service?
Authors: Bertram Albert E.
Published: February 2018

This reader disagrees with the approach to division of regulatory responsibilities between state health departments and environmental agencies suggested by John Bumstead in “Viewpoint ‐ Regulations or Public Service?” (JOURNAL AWWA March 1982). It is suggested that a move back to the state and local health departments offers the most promise for a successful preventive approach, with system evaluation accomplished primarily through plan reviews and periodic sanitary surveys.
Private industry accused of shunning public sector
Authors: Sharpe William E.
Published: February 2018

This letter provides background information on the article entitled “Industry Helps Conserve Municipal Water” by Paul R. Levine (JOURNAL AWWA March 1982). Although the article implies that private industry can manage water resources without any assistance from the public sector, a significant role in this story was played by the Water Resources Institute at Pennsylvania State University, which supplied needed research support and trained professionals to help solve the problem.
Risk: a regulator's perspective
Authors: Brezner Gerald P. , Weaver Leo
Published: February 2018

Determination of an “acceptable level of risk” is not a quantitative scientific question, but a sociological‐political issue. A valid uniform model for estimation of health effects and a means to evaluate the diverse interests of the populace are not easily‐solved problems; but if the proper questions are identified, then research by sociologists and scientists may be more useful aids to regulators during the decision‐making process.
Water rates and residential water conservation
Authors: Lippiatt Barbara C. , Weber Stephen F.
Published: February 2018

Descriptions of the five major types of water rate schedules are presented. A national sample of rate schedules is analyzed to measure the effect of existing water pricing policies on the dollar value to homeowners of a unit of conserved water. This value is found to be significantly lower than the average price of water, which analysts often incorrectly use to evaluate water conservation investments.
Policing demand through pricing
Authors: Griffith Fred P.
Published: February 2018

By concentrating on the peak‐use season, the Fairfax County (Va.) Water Authority developed a rate structure that reduced demands and equitably charged its customers. Practical improvements were made in traditional rate schedules by approaching marginal costs on a more refined basis.
Statistical sampling technique for controlling the accuracy of small water meters
Authors: Tao Penchih
Published: February 2018

Drawbacks associated with the periodic age change program for water meters can be corrected by a statistical sampling program based on random sampling theory.
Advanced water treatment for color and organics removal
Authors: Constantine Ted A.
Published: February 2018

The biological activated filtration process can offer reduced capital and operating costs, lower chemical dosage requirements, and lesser sludge‐disposal problems for treatment of highly colored waters than conventional treatment processes.
Colorado water rights—an engineer's case studies
Authors: Fassett Gordon W.
Published: February 2018

A brief description of a water rights doctrine—the appropriation doctrine—as applied in Colorado supplies the background for an engineer's analysis of two case histories on how new water supplies were obtained legally for a municipality and a recreational development in Colorado.
The economics off municipal wastewater reuse
Authors: Young C. Edwin
Published: February 2018

As water supplies become scarce, reuse of municipal wastewater becomes increasingly practical under certain circumstances. An economic model is provided to aid in evaluating the factors that influence decisions on reuse.
Financial Planning During Times of Economic Uncertainty
Authors: Saleba Gary S.
Published: February 2018

Traditional sources of revenue for water utilities, including general obligation bonds, special assessment bonds, and revenue bonds, are described. The financial crunch of the 1970's forced utilities to adapt new methods to generate revenue. The following are discussed: internal expense controls such as retrofitting pumping stations and expediting billing procedures; internally‐ generated revenue sources such as collecting fixed expenses through initial monthly fees, connection fees, and general facility charges for new customers; and innovative methods of external financing such as floating rate bonds, put bonds, warrants, and tender offerings.
Asbestos analysis case history: surface water supplies in Southern California
Authors: McGuire Michael J. , Bowers A. Eugene , Bowers Daniel A.
Published: February 2018

In 1974, analyses for asbestos fibers were conducted on a one‐time basis at the surface water supply reservoirs of The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Although no asbestos fibers were found at that time, a further analysis in 1980 detected the presence of asbestos in the water supply that originates in Northern California. This paper presents the data from the initial and follow‐up surveys (1980–1981) and identifies potential sources of the asbestos fibers, which include high background counts from erosion of serpentine minerals in the aqueduct watershed and a point source near Coalinga, California. Based on these studies, a program was initiated to remove asbestos‐contaminated sediments from the bottom of the aqueduct between Coalinga and the A.D. Edmonston Pumping Plant.
Evaluating water treatment techniques for barium removal
Authors: Krause Terry L. , Stover Enos L.
Published: February 2018

Because of its suspected effects on the cardiovascular system, the maximum level of barium in public drinking water supplies has been set at 1.0 mg/L. However, levels substantially exceeding 1.0 mg/L have been found in isolated groundwater supplies throughout northern Illinois. This study was conducted to evaluate three water treatment techniques for removing barium and to determine the cost of implementing the treatment systems at an existing well supply. Pilot studies demonstrated that ion exchange, lime softening, and chemical precipitation‐direct filtration would reduce barium in the finished water to levels below the current maximum contaminant level. The costs associated with each technique, however, varied greatly.
Maintaining aging systems—Boston's approach
Authors: Sullivan John P.
Published: February 2018

Boston's aging water system has been inaccurately portrayed as being past the point of no return. The creation of an independent water and sewer commission has helped establish a long‐term capital improvement and system maintenance program that will ensure continued service to some 86 000 customer accounts. By concentrating on three major areas—metering, leak detection, and a relaying and relining program—Boston is expected to reach its goal of having all mains more than 100 years old cleaned and relined or replaced by the year 2000.
Constructing and maintaining distribution storage structures
Authors: Carpenter Carl H.
Published: February 2018

Distribution storage systems provide the means to improve and stabilize water flows and pressures, to store treated water during low‐demand periods for peak–demand use, and to meet fire fighting needs or other contingencies. This article describes the types of structures commonly used for distribution storage, discusses how to choose an appropriate structure, and offers suggestions on maintenance.
Obtaining an analytical grasp of water distribution systems
Authors: Siedler Moses
Published: February 2018

Thorough field investigations of water distribution systems are necessary for efficient operation and future planning. Water audits can analyze leakage, erroneous meter registration, and other problems in a distribution system. Such information is also necessary before cost‐effective plans for upgrading systems can be developed.
Developing and monitoring municipal groundwater supplies in Florida
Authors: Heath Gene
Published: February 2018

Developing new municipal groundwater supplies involves comprehensive projections of the effects on other users of the aquifer as well as studies of the terrestrial effects on the area surrounding the wellfield. This article describes the studies undertaken by the West Coast (Fla.) Regional Water Supply Authority to develop a wellfield and to monitor the effects of municipal use on the aquifer in relation to a wet and dry cycle climate.
An evaluation of the calcium carbonate saturation indexes
Authors: Rossum John R. , Merrill Douglas T.
Published: February 2018

Formulas for calculating six saturation indexes are derived. The indexes are expressed in terms of commonly measured characteristics of water quality. They are evaluated for their ability to determine whether a water is undersaturated, saturated, or oversaturated with respect to calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and to predict the water's capacity for CaCO3 deposition or dissolution. Important concepts that are often poorly understood are clarified.
ViewPoint – Can the Water Supply Industry Fend for Itself in the Future?
Authors: Wolman Abel
Published: February 2018

In this article, the author discusses the future of the water supply industry relevant to motivation, manpower, management, and money.
Desalting water in Florida
Authors: Dykes Glenn M.
Published: February 2018

The scarcity of water resources of suitable quality for drinking water near some of the most rapidly growing coastal communities in Florida has made desalting a feasible means of using brackish groundwater for potable supplies in many areas. Reverse osmosis has proven to be the most satisfactory and widespread technique for development of these alternative sources of potable water.
Desorption of compounds during operation of GAC adsorption systems
Authors: Thacker William E. , Snoeyink Vernon L. , Crittenden John C.
Published: February 2018

Desorption of previously adsorbed compounds from granular activated carbon beds is a problem that can produce effluent concentrations that are temporarily greater than influent concentrations. The research reported in this article was performed with a verified mathematical model to evaluate factors affecting desorption caused either by a reduction in influent concentration or by competition. The factors studied were mass transfer coefficients, equilibrium capacity characteristics, and process variables (bed length, hydraulic loading, and carbon particle size). For conditions roughly approximating treatment plant operation, results indicate that the time during which the concentration in the effluent is higher than that in the influent can be significant, possibly on the order of weeks. A system designed for efficient adsorption may also provide for efficient desorption.
Organizing and managing South Dakota's rural water systems
Authors: Davis Dennis N.
Published: February 2018

Rural water systems have been developed in South Dakota within the past 12 years to provide sufficient quantities of good water to thousands of farmers, ranchers, and small towns. Grass roots initiatives evolved into functioning water systems and cooperation among systems to improve services economically. The concept is expected to result in a growing number of systems to serve the dispersed rural population of South Dakota.
Management training programs for small water utilities....
Authors: Burke Clyde A.
Published: February 2018

Management training programs for small water utilities are frequently neglected for budgetary reasons, but careful planning to meet specific objectives and limitation of training to obtain better on‐the‐job performance can be achieved for a reasonable cost.
Tetrachloroethylene leached from lined asbestos–cement pipe into drinking water
Authors: Larson Charles D. , Love O. Thomas , Reynolds Gardiner
Published: February 2018

In an effort to control corrosion of asbestos‐cement (A‐C) pipe, water utilities worked with pipe manufacturers to develop a lined A‐C pipe. Application of the lining usually involved thinning the vinyl toluene resin with tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and spraying it on the inside of the pipe. In a follow‐up to the National Organics Monitoring Survey, the USEPA and several New England states found residual PCE in the drinking water of communities where lined A‐C pipe was being used. The authors of this article describe some of the history behind the development and use of lined A‐C pipe, the reasons why its production was discontinued, and actions taken to correct the problem. Strategies suggested by the USEPA include steps that individual homeowners can take to improve water used for drinking and cooking as well as actions that can be taken by communities, states, and the USEPA. These strategies are briefly outlined. Two widely employed methods for lessening tetrachloroethylene concentrations are flushing and installing continuous bleeders.
Discussion of tetrachloroethylene in drinking water: a manufacturer's perspective*
Authors: McCallie S. Wyatt
Published: February 2018

This article outlines the actions taken by Johns‐Manville, manufacturer of vinyl‐lined asbestos‐cement (A‐C) pipe, in 1980 in response to evidence gathered by the USEPA which cited A‐C pipes as the source of tetrachloroethylene in drinking water. Johns‐Manville took the following steps: discontinued further production or sale of vinyllined pipe; commenced flow and tetrachloroethylene (PCE) level testing; printed 10,000 data sheets on PCE for distribution by water companies to their customers; generated computer lists for the USEPA and the states showing customers and amounts of vinyl‐lined pipe sold in New England; met with state water officials to explain how PCE came from the pipes and how levels could be reduced by bleeding and flushing; distributed a chronology and explanation of the problems to several radio and television stations; and took back, for full credit, all inventory stocks of vinyl‐lined pipe when requested by customers. The author also expresses concern over the lack of long‐term, fixed maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and suggested no adverse response levels (SNARLs) for PCE, the lack of which fails to provide the public and the media with balanced, scientific data necessary to evaluate a situation without over‐reaction and unneeded expense.
More on Determining Free Available Chlorine
Authors: Johnson J. Donald
Published: February 2018

Writing in response to “Determining Free Available Chlorine by DPD‐Colorimetric, DPD‐Steadifac (Colorimetric), and FACTS Procedures” by Cooper et al (JOURNAL AWWA July 1982) and “Letters to the Editor” by Palin (JOURNAL AWWA March 1983), this reader states that the practical significance of a 4 percent error in monochloramine (NH2Cl) is debatable. Two situations commonly occur in which this error is much higher than 4 percent. If the concentration of NH2Cl is 2.5 mg/L and free chlorine is 0.1 mg/L, then the error chlorine measurement after 1 minute is also 0.1 mg/L or a 100 percent error in free chlorine. Of even greater significance is the error caused by a small amount of iodide coupled with the fact that the DPD method uses 10 g potassium iodide/L in the total chlorine measurement.
Overview of rural water and sanitation programs for Latin America
Authors: Donaldson David
Published: February 2018

Though many rural inhabitants of Latin America now have access to safe water, millions remain unserved, and increasing populations place added stress on existing systems. Improvements are still greatly needed in administration and financing of water and sanitation projects and for extensive training programs for paraprofessional rural water technicians.
Preozonation as a coagulant aid in drinking water treatment
Authors: Saunier Bernard M. , Selleck Robert E. , Trussell R. Rhodes
Published: February 2018

The effects of preozonation on the treatment of Seine River water were evaluated in a pilot plant consisting of flocculation with basic aluminum polychloride (PAC) followed by sedimentation. Preozonation significantly increased the removals of turbidity, particle numbers and volumes, chemical oxygen demand, and UV absorbance at all treatment levels investigated (0.3–1.2 mg/L for ozone, and 15–60 mg/L for PAC), with the optimum ozone dose appearing to be about 0.8 mg/L. The favorable effects of ozone increased with pH and the particle count of the untreated water. The increases in particle removals appeared to stem partly from increases in floc size and settling velocity.
Softener performance
Authors: Matson Jack V.
Published: February 2018

Writing in response to the article “Reusing Cooling Water in an Electric Power Plant” by W.P. Grobmyer et al (JOURNAL AWWA March 1983), Matson states that the experimenters were wrong in eliminating sidestream treatment because they felt problems in controlling sludge would make their results unreliable. Also, the experiments with silica removal as a function of sludge aging and concentration were misleading. Sludge aging is not related to time in terms of calendar days but to the time the sludge is in the softener.
From dream to reality: Lake Michigan water for four Chicago suburbs
Authors: Callan John E.
Published: February 2018

The Northwest Water Commission was organized to supply water to four cooperating suburban Chicago communities. With supplies from wells that served individual communities shrinking, it became apparent in the late 1950s that water would have to be obtained from an alternative source. Securing the legal right to use water from Lake Michigan took 25 years and involved a US Supreme Court ruling. The system is now under construction and will be in operation by 1984.