bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SELECTING lead pipe Rehabilitation and Replacement Technologies
Authors: Boyd Glen R. , Tarbet Neil K. , Kirmeyer Gregory , Murphy Brian M. , Serpente Robert F. , Zammit Mario
Published: February 2018

This article describes a 1997 study funded by the AWWA Research Foundation in which a team of international investigators began testing and evaluating techniques for rehabilitating or replacing small‐diameter (less than 1 in. [25 mm]) lead piping in distribution systems. The approach included a literature review and survey of utilities, case studies, and field trials with manufacturers at participating utilities in North America and Europe. The project found that numerous lead pipe rehabilitation and replacement techniques are both currently available and being developed, and include: open‐trench replacement; replacement on new routes; replacement using existing routes; slip lining; and, pipe coating. Factors affecting the use and performance of these technologies can be classified as controllable and noncontrollable. On the basis of the project's findings, a systematic procedure was developed that utilities can use as a guide for planning lead pipe rehabilitation and replacement programs, evaluating and selecting technologies, and estimating the costs for site‐specific applications.
Wider Horizons
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

Topics reported on in this month's column include: developers in the Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico are working on specific anion nanoengineered sorbents (SANS) that could reduce the cost of removing arsenic from drinking water; the Nessie curve, originally developed by the South Australia Water Corporation, describes how to assess physical assets and financial needs for rehabilitation or replacement of existing infrastructure and the use of various scenarios for replacement strategies and financing; the AWWA Research Foundation's budget has steadily increased over the past three years due to a growing awareness on the part of utility managers that progress will only come through research of specific utility issues; and, more utilities are seeing the benefits of the past two decades of research on their bottom line because in many areas research pays for itself in the first year.
Usepa Adopts Streamlined Filter Backwash Recycling Rule
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the streamlined filter backwash recycling rule (FBRR), adopted by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), which requires all systems using conventional or direct filtration and practice recycling to submit certain information to states by December 8, 2003, and to comply with a treatment technique by June 8, 2006. The essentials of the rule are discussed, along with the simplified reporting/recordkeeping requirements, amending the public notification rule, costs and benefits, and implementation assistance. A list of internet resources is given.
Massachusetts Rate Increase Challenged under “Used and Useful” Standard
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

For costs to be included in the rate base of a water treatment plant, expenditures must be prudently incurred, and the resulting plant must be used and useful to its customers, according to the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts.
EfficientUtilities
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the AWWA sponsored website, EfficientUtilities.com, an electronic procurement exchange with a technology partner that was developed by AWWA to better serve its members. It allows buyers and suppliers to rout business documents privately to each other via a centralized Internet location. Once a supplier receives a request, it can be forwarded automatically to the right contact who can respond quickly to the prospective buyer. When a request goes to a manufacturer, it can be electronically forwarded to the appropriate representative or distributor. When a supplier provides a bid, only the utility that requested the bid will receive it because EfficientUtilities will maintain strict privacy and security. This will allow suppliers to reduce bid submittal costs and response time.
Where are the Statistics?
Authors: Edberg Stephen
Published: February 2018

I read the article “Assessing the Vulnerability of Groundwater Sources to Fecal Contamination” by Roger S. Fujioka et al in the August 2001 issue of Journal AWWA. There are absolutely no statistics presented.
MWRA rulings transform SDWA enforcement landscape
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

Recent Federal court rulings rejecting efforts by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to force the Massachusetts water resources authority (MWRA) to filter its surface water supply have left many in the water supply community wondering what this unexpected turn of events may mean, if anything, for future enforcement of Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) regulations. This article aims to clarify the view by highlighting just what the two sides argued and what the judges decided in a case that has been building since USEPA promulgated the SWTR 12 years ago.
Ambiguous Insurance Wording Means Water Damage Must Be Covered
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

Because of a policy's ambiguous wording, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia has ruled that an insurance company was liable for property damage resulting from the rupture of an underground water main.
People Make the Difference in Meeting the Challenges of SDWA's Capacity Development
Authors: Ronnebaum Elmer
Published: February 2018

This column describes how a small rural Kansas water district was experiencing several problems at the same time that included PVC contamination, water loss that averaged 46%, the district's bookkeeping and maintenance had not been kept current, and its governing body was not actively seeking solutions to the problems. To solve these problems, district officials realized that they needed to provide new leadership to restore the utility's integrity. With administrative support, a new operator and a new accountant implemented changes. They worked with regulatory agencies, the PVC industry, and other professionals to determine remedies for the PVC issue as well as the district's other problems.
Interlaboratory validation of an atrazine immunoassay
Authors: Brady James F. , Tierney Dennis P. , McFarland Janis E. , Cheung Max W.
Published: February 2018

An immunoassay method was validated in an interlaboratory study as an alternative test procedure to US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) method 508.1 rev. 2.0 for monitoring atrazine in drinking water in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). The study plan was approved by the USEPA Office of Water (OW). Nineteen laboratories participated in the study. Participants included personnel from water treatment plants and private and government laboratories certified to perform SDWA compliance monitoring. Field samples and reagent water were fortified with atrazine and shipped to study participants in a blind fashion. Data were used to generate quality control criteria to provide guidance for laboratories to evaluate method performance. The results of the study have been submitted to the USEPA OW for approval and promulgation of the method. This is the first immunoassay method to be validated under the SDWA.
Stepping Up Water System Security
Authors: Rose J. Allen
Published: February 2018

Since September 11, water system security has become a critical issue. Although most systems already have security measures as well as an emergency response plan in place, the actions of that day call for increased, and perhaps heretofore unthought of, efforts to secure America's water supplies from attack. These and other issues were discussed in a phone interview with J. Allen Rose, Vice‐president of Black & Veatch's special projects corporation and are reported in this article.
Mobile Solutions Deliver Improved Utility Infrastructure and Operations Management
Authors: Stern Christopher T. , Kendall Donald R.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the cost savings and improved system reliability utilities can realize by making an investment in Internet‐based software and mobile solutions. These solutions include two‐way radios, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, distribution system modeling software, and time‐keeping and activity management systems.
Cross‐connection: Is a Federal Mandate Needed? Who's Responsible?
Authors: Howell Mary L.
Published: February 2018

The number of backflow incidents nationwide seems likely to increase, but often it isn't clear who is responsible, or liable, in backflow situations. This article discusses the reality of backflow incidents causing illness or injury, whether a federal mandate addressing cross‐connections is needed, and what a mandate should include.
Metropolitan Unbundles Services, Rates
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a rate structure adopted by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWDSC) that gives incentives for sound water management and supports a financial framework for MWDSC investments in future water supplies. The new rate structure has two tiers that use price signals to encourage water agencies to invest in cost‐effective conservation, water recycling, transfers, desalination, and groundwater programs.
A New Pipe Replacement Approach
Authors: Shamsi Uzair M.
Published: February 2018

This report discusses a new pipe replacement technology that uses a probabilistic model to predict future deterioration, pipe breaks, and reliability of water supply. Since pipes make up the bulk of a distribution system, this article focuses solely on pipes. The proposed methodology, however, is also applicable to other system components such as valves, pumps, and tanks.
Water Wars
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the two viewpoints of whether the next major war will be fought over water, or whether water disputes act to unify groups and nations rather than to create violent conflict or wars. He discusses several points that are putting stress on the world's water resources that include: world population growth; demand for water for irrigation purposes; and, as new nations are formed, new international watersheds are formed, which can become sore points for conflicts.
Abiotic and Biotic Perchlorate removal in an activated carbon filter
Authors: Brown Jess C. , Snoeyink Vernon L. , Kirisits Mary Jo
Published: February 2018

Granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration experiments demonstrated that perchlorate was removed by ion exchange rather than by chemical reduction. A column ion‐exchange capacity of 0.172 mg perchlorate per g GAC was calculated. Batch tests confirmed that ion exchange was the dominant mechanism of perchlorate removal by GAC. When influent dissolved oxygen (DO) was 2.5 mg/L and an electron donor solution was supplied, efficient reduction of 50 μg/L perchlorate was achieved using biologically active carbon (BAC) filtration. Perchlorate reduction decreased as the concentration of nitrate in the filter increased. With low influent DO and nitrate concentrations and excess electron donor added, the BAC filter removed 50 μg/L perchlorate to below detection for 103 days of flow at a 25‐min empty bed contact time. Batch biological experiments verified the occurrence of biological reduction and demonstrated that microorganisms in the BAC filter converted perchlorate completely to chloride.
Effects of prefluoridation on removal of particles and organic matter
Authors: Pommerenk Peter , Schafran Gary C.
Published: February 2018

For the past decade, US water utilities have been working to optimize their treatment processes to meet increasingly stringent regulations. Of the many unit processes employed in conventional treatment, water fluoridation appears to have been overlooked as a potential obstacle to effective compliance with the new requirements. A review of treatment plant schematics collected for the Information Collection Rule found that many utilities add fluoride to the process train at points where it can interfere with particle and natural organic matter (NOM) removal. In this research, bench‐ and pilot‐scale studies provided evidence that addition of fluoride to water prior to treatment with aluminum sulfate (alum) can severely affect removal of turbidity and NOM under enhanced coagulation conditions. Utilities disregarding these effects may face increased chemical costs, lower removal of organic matter and disinfection by‐product precursors, elevated concentrations of aluminum in the finished water, shorter filter run times, and the potential for turbidity breakthrough in filters.
Demystifying the Endangered Species Act
Authors: Goss Scott
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the Endangered Species Act (ESA) consultation process and presents a successful case study. Important points to remember when going through the process are given.
“Social costs” of open‐cut trenching can be avoided
Authors: Sullivan Ed
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how trenchless construction technologies such as microtunneling can virtually eliminate expensive social costs from the installation of sewer or water pipeline systems. Although it is sometimes more expensive than the traditional open‐cut approach in terms of direct construction costs, microtunneling installations can actually provide extensive savings over the life of a project, in terms of safety as well as the prevention of business and residential disruptions. Plus, using vitrified clay pipe can extend the lifespan of sewer systems for many years, avoiding the need to reinstall new pipes for a long time to come.
Contributions in Aid of Construction: IRS final regulations
Authors: Kermode Danny P.
Published: February 2018

Early in 2001, the Internal Revenue Service released its new rules on contributions in aid of construction (CIAC). CIAC provides water utilities a method of tax‐free financing for plant improvements, but only if the transactions are structured to be consistent with the new rules. If a utility fails in some way to properly configure the transaction, it may be exposed to an unexpected tax liability. In some cases, the liability could be quite large. The CIAC rules affect all economically regulated water utilities operating in the corporate form. Even though the rules can be quite beneficial to water utilities, few articles have covered these financial management issues. This article attempts to fill that void by providing utility managers with information necessary to discuss and maximize the use of nontaxable CIAC financing without inadvertently triggering income tax complications. Because these rulings are new, issued in 2001, the management and advisors of regulated investor‐owned water companies must become acquainted with them to provide service at the lowest cost. Kermode provides a detailed overview of the requirements and accounting procedures for the new regulations. The article covers the sometimes complex characteristics of CIAC and also addresses in more depth the four types of transactions that result in a qualified transfer of CIAC.
California's First aeration plants for corrosion control
Authors: Schock Michael R. , Holldber Jerry , Lovejoy Thomas R. , Lowry Jerry
Published: February 2018

The Idyllwild Water District and Pine Cove Water District are small groundwater systems with multiple wells. Both systems have soft, mildly acidic waters with high carbon dioxide content and dissolved inorganic carbon concentrations of approximately 18 mg/L C, and both systems exceeded one or both of the lead and copper action levels in 1993 and 1994. In 1997, aeration was investigated to increase pH and replace inhibitor or other chemical additions. Four designs were evaluated, and a deep bubble aeration system was pilot‐tested. Full‐scale systems were designed and built and became operational in October 1998. Aeration raised the pH from 6.1–6.3 to 7.1–7.6, and by January 1999, both systems easily met both the lead and copper action levels. Radon (Rn) samples taken at Pine Cove showed a 99% reduction to 33 ± 8 pCi/L, assuring compliance with the proposed Rn regulation. Using aeration for corrosion control has considerably simplified treatment and improved water quality in most respects. Treatment was integrated with system designs, enabling the use of one treatment plant for the multiple wells at each system, locating the treatment plants above storage to eliminate repumping, and maximizing electricity savings by increasing operation at off‐peak times.
Risky Acronyms
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr makes the point that the public expects too much of science and government when it comes to defining what “safe” is when dealing with trace amounts of chemicals. The public thinks that the US Environmental Protection Agency, in particular, knows all the bad pollutants, precisely what adverse health or environmental effects they cause, how to measure them exactly, and control them absolutely. Hoffbuhr states that since there are no easy answers, it is important to maintain a continuing dialog between the public and government on the importance of a rational approach to making risk‐based decisions, or society will continue to be plagued with risky acronyms.
Institutional Alternatives for Small Systems in the 21st Century
Authors: Shanaghan Peter E. , Beecher Janice A.
Published: February 2018

The increasing number of challenges facing small water systems (e.g., regulatory standards, aging infrastructure, and issues of source water quantity and protection) are bringing about new institutional models to meet these challenges. This paper suggests six criteria for assessing existing or proposed alternative institutional structures.
Public–private venture receives award
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

The Oklahoma City, Okla., wastewater management program, administered by US Filter Operating Services, was singled out by the National Council for Public–Private Partnerships with the 2001 partnership award for the program's innovation and efficiency. Over the 17‐year partnership, Oklahoma City and US Filter have provided substantial cost savings and quality service for 1 million citizens in the metropolitan area.
What's It Worth?
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the value of membership in AWWA, and that it should be more than what an individual can get for himself. It should also include what that individual can give back or contribute to the association. Hoffbuhr states that AWWA's message to prospective members focuses on the reality that AWWA needs their expertise and support to further the mission of public health protection.
Predicted Public Health Consequences of Body‐contact Recreation ON A POTABLE WATER RESERVOIR
Authors: Stewart Mic H. , Yates Marylynn V. , Anderson Michael A. , Gerba Charles P. , Rose Joan B. , De Leon Ricardo , Wolfe Roy L.
Published: February 2018

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California recently completed construction of an 800,000 acre‐ft (1 × 109 m3) drinking water reservoir. Recreational activities, including swimming and other sports involving direct body contact (BC) with the water, have been the subject of considerable interest by local community members. Consequently, a modeling‐based risk assessment study was conducted to assess the potential public health consequences to downstream potable water users consuming water from this reservoir if BC recreation was permitted. Results of the study indicated that the annual risk of waterborne illness would increase three times above background, despite conventional treatment. Moreover, the occurrence of high‐loading pathogen events associated with BC recreation was observed to significantly increase the daily risk of waterborne illness to downstream consumers. The study also considered the cost of additional treatment that would be necessary to address the increased risk. The modeling approach used in this study provides guidance for policymakers and stakeholders who are examining issues associated with BC recreation and drinking water reservoirs.
Effect of Grounding and electrical properties ON WATER QUALITY
Authors: Bell Graham E.C. , Duranceau Steven J.
Published: February 2018

The use of metallic water piping as part of a building's electrical grounding system has been a commonplace practice for more than 80 years. When electrical transformers serve multiple buildings, the water services and distribution piping can act as parallel neutral return paths for stray current from building electrical systems to the transformers. Electrical resistance in pipe connections, if present, forces some fraction of the stray current to flow through the parallel water path. Discharge of current on the inside of the pipe increases metal release. Previous studies on the effects of grounding on water quality and metal release did not investigate the effects of resistance or dielectric fitting. This study investigated the effects of dielectric fittings on water quality. Copper tubing that had been modified with inserted dielectric fittings was filled with potable water from two different water sources and was tested with applied alternating current (AC) voltages of up to 123 V for periods of up to 110 h. Significant increases in copper, lead, and zinc in stagnant potable water were measured in less than 24 h at applied voltages of ∼50 VAC. Metal release generally increased with charge transfer, in accordance with Faraday's law.
Use of BAC for HAA removal—PART 2, COLUMN STUDY
Authors: Xie Yuefeng F. , Zhou Haojiang (“Joe”)
Published: February 2018

This study investigated removal of five haloacetic acids (HAA5) (monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid, monobromoacetic acid, and dibromoacetic acid) in biologically active carbon (BAC) columns. An acclimated granular activated carbon (GAC), or BAC, column effectively removed four of the HAA5 that had been spiked in the influent at 50 μg/L each. Only trichloroacetic acid, detected at 10 μg/L in the effluents, was not completely removed. After the biological activity on acclimated GAC was eliminated by autoclaving, the HAA removal efficiency was significantly reduced. In another experiment, the removal of HAAs in a new GAC column was continuously monitored for 76 days. The new GAC effectively removed HAAs. HAA removal at the beginning of this experiment was from carbon adsorption, whereas biodegradation was the HAA removal mechanism later in the experiment. The results of this study are significant to the water industry—removal of HAAs using BAC may provide a new technology for control of disinfection by‐products.
Measurement and Effect of Trace Element Contaminants in Alum
Authors: Eyring Adam M. , Weinberg Howard S. , Singer Philip C.
Published: February 2018

Analytical methods were developed to accurately determine the levels of the most prevalent trace metal contaminants in a variety of alum feedstocks used in the coagulation process of drinking water treatment. A combination of chelation ion chromatography, chelation extraction–atomic absorption spectrometry, and hydride generation atomic fluorescence allowed for the selective isolation of trace metals from the alum matrix with a high degree of precision and sensitivity. Trace levels of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, manganese, nickel, lead, and zinc were found in the range of 20–330 μg/g aluminum (Al); iron, recognized as a co‐contaminant in the raw material, was present at 20 mg/g Al. By extrapolating these measured levels to an upper yet realistic applied dosage of alum in drinking water treatment, the authors could predict the contaminants' concentrations (under a worst‐case scenario) in both the finished water and alum sludge. For finished water even if it was assumed that none of the trace metals was removed during coagulation, the contaminants' concentrations did not exceed drinking water standards, and their contribution reached only a small fraction of the permitted maximum contaminant level. In a scenario in which the trace metals were assumed to be removed during the coagulation process, levels that would accumulate in the alum sludge would not be significant enough to heavily influence decisions to apply alum sludge to land for agricultural uses.
Facing the workforce reality: making more out of less
Authors: Brueck Terry
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. This article describes the workforce changes utilities will face.
Approval of Alabama's Hydraulic Fracturing Possible Under SDWA's Class II Well Regs
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

Alabama's hydraulic fracturing programs to enhance the recovery of methane gas from coal beds could be approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) under a more flexible provision of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), according to the US Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit.
The case for management/executive development programs
Authors: Hunt James W.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the benefits of a management/executive development program in organizing a utility to retain its top managers. The article gives suggestions on how to create such a program including benchmarking current personnel, backup plans to deal with the loss of personnel, and building competency models for key jobs that include critical skills.
Committee Report: Options for a Taste and Odor Standard
Authors:   AWWA Water Quality Division Taste and Odor Committee
Published: February 2018

With increased public awareness of drinking water issues, water suppliers are under growing pressure to adhere to an acceptable standard of aesthetic quality. However, establishing a practical, feasible level of control for tastes and odors in drinking water is fraught with difficulties. A variety of chemical compounds can affect taste and odor, and the analytical methods available for detecting them vary in cost, effectiveness and ease of use. Taste and odor preferences are also subjective, and sensitivities to tastes and odors vary not only from customer to customer but for the same individual from day to day. The Taste and Odor Committee of AWWA's Water Quality Division reviewed existing taste and odor guidelines, from the US Environmental Protection Agency's 1979 guidance establishing secondary maximum contaminant levels to more recent regulatory actions regarding volatile organic chemicals and methyl tertiary butyl ether. In addition, the committee critiqued a range of possible regulatory options based on such criteria as chemical concentrations, frequency of occurrence, treatment techniques, and use of surrogates. The committee concluded that there was little possibility of establishing a single taste and odor standard that could apply equally to public perception of tap water quality nationwide. As an alternative, they proposed self‐regulation by the industry, through the creation of a quality program similar to the Partnership for Safe Water. Such a program could help improve the taste and odor quality of drinking water and, at the same time, eliminate the need for cumbersome regulatory standards or guidelines.
Water suppliers, USEPA, Congress addressing terrorism threat
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

Continuing White House warnings that further terrorist attacks are all but certain have brought heightened attention to bioterrorism risks faced by thousands of American water suppliers and triggered actions by the water supply community, the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and Congress to address the threat.
Water District Within City Ruled Unconstitutional
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

In a decision only recently reported, a law creating a county water district within the extraterritorial jurisdiction of a city was declared unconstitutional by the Court of Appeals of Texas.
Water Supply in Latin America and the Caribbean—A Critical Look
Authors: Otterstetter Horst
Published: February 2018

The consistent improvement experienced in the water supply in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is chiefly the result of the political commitment, starting with the Charter of Punta del Este in 1961. In addition, a successful process of transferring experiences and technologies to LAC has provided the vital ingredients for growth. Today, Latin America has the capability to develop some of its own technologies and is able to export some of its experiences. Nevertheless, a new set of challenges is bringing about a new demand for transfer of experiences to LAC. The new challenges are basically in the area of sector policies, sector structures, institutional and human development, and the application of technologies for specific and indigenous technical problems.
AWWA Exposition Showcases Innovations for Water Suppliers
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

This article describes various product premiers and showcases by industry manufacturing companies at AWWA's 2002 Annual Conference and Exposition in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Susceptibility of Materials to Cavitation erosion in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan W.M. , Cheng F.T. , Chow W.K.
Published: February 2018

The authors studied the cavitation erosion and corrosion behaviors of materials—copper, brass, bronze, cast iron, and stainless steel—commonly used in cold water supply systems in Hong Kong. An ultrasonic vibration system was used to estimate the cavitation erosion for both local tap water and deionized water. Polarization technique was used to study the corrosion behavior of materials in tap water; the contributions of mechanical erosion, corrosion, and erosion–corrosion were also investigated. The resistance of these materials to cavitation erosion for local tap water was ranked (in decreasing order of resistance) as follows: stainless steel, brass, bronze, cast iron, and copper. The authors propose, based on their findings, a simple formula for estimating the fractional increase in metal release attributable to cavitation erosion.
Practical implications of bubble formation IN CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT
Authors: Scardina Paolo , Edwards Marc
Published: February 2018

Air entrainment and ozonation are the key causes of dissolved gas supersaturation and eventual bubble formation in water treatment plants. Total dissolved gas probes directly measure supersaturation and have many advantages over conventional gas measurement techniques. Experiments conducted during this study found that bubble formation during coagulation/flocculation hindered particle sedimentation—producing settled turbidity levels double those of solutions without dissolved gases. In a filtration experiment, the run time to one half of initial flow was decreased by 54% when the source water was increased from 0.1 to 0.2 atm supersaturation. Even at only 0.05 atm supersaturation, run length decreased to only 21 h in solutions without added particulate matter. A case study at a utility confirmed that bubble formation from supersaturated gases can interfere with coagulation and filtration processes at conventional water treatment plants.
The Future Ain't What It Used to Be
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses four key questions about leading the country's businesses through the uncertain economic times we are currently experiencing. He states that the answers to these questions will determine how successful these businesses will be in the coming years. The questions include: how do we distinguish short‐term from long‐term trends; how do we keep our organizations agile in this rapidly changing environment; how do we create knowledge from data; and, how do we prepare employees to provide the future leadership in our organizations?
No Contract Necessary to Qualify for Conditional Water Right
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The Supreme Court of Colorado has ruled that a mining company did not need a contract with the US Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) in order to show the availability of water and qualify for a conditional water right.
DBPs: A Whole New World of Monitoring
Authors: Grimm Mike
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a new requirement, beginning in 2004, where many small water systems will have to start monitoring programs for disinfection byproducts that could significantly increase their costs.
Biostability and microbiological quality in a chloraminated distribution system
Authors: Zhang Miao , Semmens Michael J. , Schuler David , Hozalski Raymond M.
Published: February 2018

In this study, two components were evaluated: biostability, measured by assimilable organic carbon (AOC) concentration; and microbiological quality, determined by heterotrophic plate counts and coliform counts. The study centered around a full‐scale chloraminated distribution system. Results from full‐scale monitoring showed that the water in the system was biologically stable and there was no significant microbial activity in the system in spite of a moderate to high AOC concentration of 162 + 24 μg/L as acetate‐carbon. Batch experiment results indicated that the treated water containing monochloramine was biologically stable, and removal of the residual chlorine resulted in rapid consumption of AOC and bacterial regrowth. This study suggested that the treated water's AOC concentration may not be the dominant factor for controlling bacterial regrowth in all distribution systems. Biostability can be achieved in a water supply containing a moderate to high AOC concentration by maintaining a high disinfectant residual throughout the system.
Groundwater Permit Exemption Not Applicable to Separate Development Parcels
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The Supreme Court of Washington has ruled that a statutory exemption from groundwater permits for domestic uses of 5,000 gpd (19,000 L/d) did not permit each lot in a developer's 20‐lot development to withdraw that amount for domestic uses.
Who's Looking After Alternative Filtration Technologies for Small Water Systems?—Part 1
Authors: Sakaji Richard H.
Published: February 2018

Alternative Filtration Technologies (AFTS) offer a number of advantages to small systems, the primary one being that they are often simpler to operate than filtration systems found in conventional water treatment plants. This first part of a two‐part article on AFTS will take a look at how AFTS are evaluated for approval and includes some tips for selecting an appropriate AFT. Next month, the second part will examine pitfalls to avoid regarding the operation and maintenance of AFTS.
DBP reduction using mixed oxidants generated on site
Authors: Hamm Beth
Published: February 2018

This paper describes how mixed oxidants generated on site have a demonstrated track record of reducing both total trihalomethanes (TTHMS) and haloacetic acids (HAAS) without the attendant problems associated with bromates and chlorites or issues regarding safe handling. Mixed‐oxidant chemistry is discussed along with theories for behavioral differences that include: preferential‐acting nonchlorine oxidants; biofilm elimination; improved residual at a reduced dosage; and, microflocculation.
What Plan?
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr stresses the importance of emergency response plans for utilities that should include communication, cooperation, and coordination as the founding principles of those plans. He also stresses the importance of up‐dating the plan and having periodic reviews, drills or full‐scale exercises to identify failures and shortfalls as well as to promote better working relationships with all the participants.
USEPA: 3% solution can close infrastructure gap
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the long‐awaited but controversial Clean Water and Drinking Water Infrastructure Gap Analysis report recently published by the US Environmental Protection Agency. It concludes that US water and wastewater utilities can slash their infrastructure funding shortfalls of $263 billion and $271 billion, respectively, to $45 billion and $31 billion through 2019 by boosting spending 3% per year above the inflation rate.
Who's Looking After Alternative Filtration Technologies for Small Water Systems?—Part 2
Authors: Sakaji Richard H. , Tanner Stephen A.
Published: February 2018

This is the second part of a two‐part article on alternative filtration technologies (AFTs), technologies that are often simpler to operate than the filtration systems found in conventional water treatment plants. Last month's column discussed how AFTs are evaluated for approval and offered some tips for selecting an appropriate AFT. This month's column examines pitfalls to avoid regarding the operation and maintenance of AFTs such as excessive pressure differential buildup, excessive use of cartridge filters, and pretreatment that compromises an AFT's efficiency.
Salinity research critical to protecting source water quality
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how higher concentrations of salinity, also referred to as salts or total dissolved solids (TDS), are progressively accumulating in the soils and water supplies of regions throughout the United States. The origin and impact of salts is discussed, along with how costly potential solutions are and the need for more research. The article lists some of the key issues being addressed by a variety of government, research, and industry professionals.
Movement of Atrazine and Deethylatrazine Through a Midwestern Reservoir
Authors: Fallon J.D. , Tierney D.P. , Thurman E.M.
Published: February 2018

The three‐dimensional visualization of atrazine and deethylatrazine in a reservoir was determined by five “snapshots” over a one‐year period using immunoassay analyses, confirmed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and visualized with a three‐dimensional computer program. The surveys were conducted in Perry Lake in Kansas and showed that spring runoff laden with triazine herbicides entered the reservoir and did not mix immediately. Concentrations varied threefold between the inlet and the public water supply intakes located at the opposite end of the reservoir. The concentration range in the outflow varied much less than the concentration in the reservoir because of mixing throughout the season near the dam and outflow. A major conclusion from the study was that multiple analyses by a low‐cost immunoassay technique coupled with computer visualization software gave a good three‐dimensional view of the mass of herbicide present in a drinking water reservoir.
Water industry receives roadmap for planning, operating in homeland security environment
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

Several major developments in late 2002 provided U.S. water utilities with a strengthened federal framework for assessing and addressing vulnerabilities to terrorist attacks and updating emergency response plans as well as a measure of certainty in these uncertain times. Chief among them, and the focus of this article, are enactment of legislation creating the new Homeland Security Department, implementation by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) of a protocol for ensuring the security of written copies of the vulnerability assessments (VAs) that community water systems serving more than 3,300 people must submit (along with submission instructions), and further development of related tools, training, and technologies.
The Public Notification Rule: Are you Prepared?
Authors: Keegan Michael , Keegan Thomas
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the new Public Notification Rule (PNR) that requires all consumers to be notified, within 24 hours in some cases, if a system is not in compliance with a drinking water regulation. The importance of a crisis communications plan is discussed along with the requirements that must be satisfied in order to be in compliance. Also, an explanation is given of how the violations break down into three tiers and what must be addressed for each tier individually.
Water Rights Transfers Must Consider Hardships to Tribes
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

According to the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, any equitable consideration for the transfer of water rights between different parcels of property has to be balanced against the hardship to an Indian tribe.
Winter Woes—the Challenge of Operating a Small System in Cold Weather
Authors: Van Der Kolk Chuck , Wawiernia Tony
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how small water systems in cold weather climates have developed techniques for dealing with the problems that winter brings such as frozen service lines, ice in storage tanks, and locating valves and curb boxes under deep snow. Several rules of thumb are given for cold weather operations.
Development of a Strategic Plan: Portfolio Management for Public Utilities
Authors: Rothstein Eric , Kiyosaki Donna
Published: February 2018

This article provides utility managers with guidance to be used in developing strategic planning processes that can be integrated in a utility's annual planning cycle. The processes discussed will also help define strategies that are useful in a rapidly changing and highly competitive market. Traditionally, water utilities have struggled to adapt to a competitive market, missing opportunities to expand their purview, opting instead to preserve the status quo. This article provides a step‐by‐step methodology for managers to use to develop a more active, entrepreneurial approach to utility management and evolve their planning processes to embrace a more market‐ and customer‐focused approach to service delivery. The authors discuss how strategic planning can be readily integrated into annual planning processes and how a portfolio management approach provides for evaluation of strategic investments and risk management. They also point out the fact that strategic planning is an evolutionary process.
R&D funding shifting to security focus
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the increase in government support of research and development. Total R&D expenditures in the U.S. are expected to increase about 3.4% to nearly $302 billion in 2003. The article discusses how the September 11th attacks, the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, and the accounting scandals involving major corporations have affected R&D funding.
Introducing the Water Quality and Technology Division
Authors: Nieminski Eva C.
Published: February 2018

This article describes AWWA's Water Quality and Technology Division (WQTD), including its functions, activities, and products. The article discusses how the WQTD focuses on the practices and technologies used to produce the best drinking water quality in terms of both public health and aesthetic purposes. The article also explains how the WQTD is responsible for the entire technical program and activities of the annual AWWA Water Quality Technology Conference. This conference has addressed water quality issues, laboratory techniques, analytical methods, and treatment processes for the past 20 years and is regarded as the premier water quality conference in the world. The WQTD also sponsors many other specialty conferences and workshops, the most important of which include the Joint Residuals Conference, the Membrane Technology Conference, and the Inorganic Contaminants Workshop.
CWA Wetlands Permit Ruled Arbitrary and Capricious
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The US Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit ruled that the issuance of a Clean Water Act (CWA) permit by the US Army Corps of Engineers to dredge and fill wetlands on a road project in Utah was arbitrary and capricious.
Arsenic Treatment: Searching for Superheroes With a Good Grip
Authors: Möller Greg , Newcombe Remy
Published: February 2018

This article briefly summarizes an approach to removing arsenic by using filtration. New media such as granular ferric hydroxide, modified alumina, and iron‐ or manganese‐coated materials are available in one‐time‐use cartridges and produce spent media that can be disposed of in municipal landfills.
One Village Too Many
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses waterborne disease in developing countries and the coordination of efforts to provide safe drinking water and adequate sanitation. Hoffbuhr says that the United Nations should assign responsibility for coordinating this effort to one entity within its structure. That group should then be charged with assisting developing nations in the crafting of national action plans that prioritize the areas within the country according to needs and conditions related to water supply and sanitation. He also states that local participation is vital if any project is to succeed and recommends that the Water For People model of village participation and involvement always be followed. Finally, he stresses the importance of using only technology that is appropriate to the resources and abilities of the particular community.
Sydney 1998—lessons from a drinking water crisis
Authors: Cox Peter , Fisher Ian , Kastl George , Jegatheesan Veeriah , Warnecke Malcolm , Angles Mark , Bustamante Heri , Chiffings Tony , Hawkins Peter R.
Published: February 2018

From July to September 1998, high concentrations of Cryptosporidium and Giardia were detected episodically in the water supply and distribution systems of Sydney, Australia. The resulting drinking water crisis triggered three consecutive boil‐water advisories and a government inquiry into the management of the water supply. The episodic nature of the detections focused attention on the veracity of the laboratory results and triggered an investigation of the transport of these pathogens in Sydney's water supply system. This article provides information submitted to the Sydney Water Inquiry that explains the episodic occurrence of pathogens in the reticulated water supply, attributing it to rapid fluctuations in the quality of the water reaching the water treatment plant.
Knowledge and support are main goals of distribution systems committee
Authors: Cohen Y. Koby
Published: February 2018

The goal of the AWWA Control of Water Quality in Transmission and Distribution Systems (WQDS) Committee is to provide the water industry with the knowledge and support necessary to achieve and maintain optimal water quality in transmission and distribution systems. The methods used by the WQDS Committee to achieve this goal are discussed. The committee also provided support to the new DSS: The Distribution & Plant Operations Conference, by developing a session that provided distribution system operators and managers information on free chlorine and chloramine disinfection, chloramine decay, concerns associated with mixing free chlorine and chloramines, and how to maintain a disinfectant residual in distribution system reservoirs. The article lists issues and topics that the WQDS committee plans to cover at upcoming conferences, and describes how the committee keeps a strong focus on regulatory affairs.
Determination of Tribe's Water Rights Must Precede Issuance of Permit
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The Supreme Court of Montana has ruled that the state's Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) could not issue beneficial water use permits regarding the groundwater of an Indian reservation until the Indian tribes' federally reserved water rights had been defined and quantified.