bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why Water and Wastewater Utilities Should Be Concerned about Cyber Security
Authors: Johnson Seth , Edwards Dave
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the importance of water utilities adopting a comprehensive security program, including cyber security controls, appropriate control system policies and procedures, incident response and disaster recovery planning, and a continuous monitoring and improvement process for risk mitigation. This is due to the “cyber‐vulnerability” of modern control systems and communications technologies such as supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. The article focuses on the work of an ad hoc committee of representatives from several California water districts that has taken the lead in promoting awareness of cyber security throughout the state's public water utilities.
Challenges and Opportunities in the World Water Market
Authors: Maxwell Steve
Published: February 2018

This article looks at the depth and magnitude of the world's water problems and presents opportunities for the broader commercial water industry to provide solutions to these challenges. The article estimates the size of the U.S. water and wastewater industry in terms of revenue per year, gives a percentage for yearly growth, and compares the U.S. market in size to the rest of the world market. The article presents several key factors that include economic forces, social demands, and political realities that are driving the direction of the broader water industry. Trends and developments in commercial water coming out of these industry drivers are presented with respect to supply, demand, market, and competitive conditions.
Finessing the Future
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the need for water utilities to develop a culture of communicating with and involving their consumers in the importance of investing in the future of their water systems and to involve them in how that investment will be made. He mentions two AWWA‐sponsored programs, Partnership for Safe Water and QualServe, that use local solutions to achieve national public health and safety objectives. He also mentions the AWWA “Only Tap Water Delivers” campaign as another example of utilities communicating the value of water to their customers.
Expanding a Conventional Water Treatment Plant With Low–pressure Membranes
Authors: Shorney‐Darby Holly , Dias Greg , Ryan Patrick , Hidahl Caudia , Henderson Ron , Abraham Ken
Published: February 2018

This article provides details of one approach for evaluating whether to install low‐pressure membranes as part of a water treatment plant (WTP) expansion. Even though the conventional WTP at the Modesto (California) Irrigation District (MID) was exceeding all state and federal water quality requirements, the decision was made to switch to a new filtration technology for the expansion. To verify the membranes' applicability and performance, the MID embarked on an extensive pilot testing program. It also evaluated options for residuals handling and for treating membrane cleaning wastes. Even a well‐operated conventional water treatment plant can have good reasons to expand with a newer technology, such as low‐pressure membranes. For the MID, the anticipated regional population growth and limited land for future water plant expansions, were significant reasons for expanding its conventional water plant with membranes. The authors have presented information that will be useful for utility managers facing their own treatment plant expansions by providing an example of one approach to evaluating a new technology for a plant expansion. Water utilities can see how MID proceeded with evaluation of low‐pressure membranes and how decisions were made. They can also learn about the design considerations for ozone, residuals handling, and disposal of membrane cleaning wastes. Readers will also be interested in the use of a siphon arrangement for drawing water through the membranes, a technique that will help to lower the overall energy use at the expanded facility.
Assessing RBF reduction/removal mechanisms for microbial and organic DBP precursors
Authors: Partinoudi Vasiliki , Collins M. Robin
Published: February 2018

Significant reductions/removals of selected microorganisms and disinfection by‐products as defined by dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were observed in four riverbank filtration (RBF) facilities. The objective of this study was to quantify the contributions of subsurface filtration (or underground passage) and groundwater dilution to overall RBF reductions/removals. The microbes quantified included aerobic spore‐forming bacteria, total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and male‐specific bacteriophage. Both groundwater dilution and subsurface filtration appeared to be important reduction/removal processes but subsurface filtration was considered most influential with regard to microbial reductions. The relative importance of subsurface filtration removals may be a function of RBF site characteristics, especially travel time and distance between the river and the RBF extraction well. Complete removals were observed for all microorganisms except virus indicators, which were considered the most problematic. The significant DOC reductions observed were attributed to dilution, biodegradation, and adsorption reduction/removal mechanisms. The relative contribution of each mechanism was site‐specific.
Energy Recovery for Water Utilities
Authors: Smith Jim H.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a joint venture between Mouchel plc, an international support services company, and the U.S.‐based renewable‐energy‐recovery company Rentricity Inc. to recover untapped energy in water utilities' distribution systems. The joint venture revolves around Rentricity's innovative Flow‐to‐Wire? microturbine solutions. These small turbines are designed to capture the energy that is typically released through pressure‐release valves. The Flow‐to‐Wire package consists of a microturbine, a generator, sensors, processors, electronic controls, and communications equipment that operate synchronously. The unit converts the energy to electricity that can then be used by customers, such as United Kingdom water companies, to reduce their own energy expenses, or it can be sold to a local electrical grid. This “smart” technology is built around integrated sensors that actually enhance the capacity for water companies to manage their systems with real‐time performance data that help to maximize security and operational effectiveness. The article summarizes this technology use in the United Kingdom, and discusses U.S. efforts at harnessing untapped energy within water systems.
Arsenic Removal by Coagulation With Aluminum, Iron, Titanium, and Zirconium
Authors: Lakshmanan Divagar , Clifford Dennis , Samanta Gautam
Published: February 2018

Arsenite [As(III)] and arsenate [As(V)] removal using zirconium and titanium coagulants was compared with removal using ferric chloride (FeCl3) and alum in a standard challenge water. As(III) adsorption was significantly lower than As(V) adsorption at all pH levels with all coagulants. The highest As(V) loadings both on mass and molar bases were observed with FeCl3. As(V) removal increased with decreasing pH with all coagulants. The small amount of As(III) removal observed was generally independent of pH. Alum did not remove any As(III). The highest As(III) loadings were observed with titanium(III) [Ti(III)], which appeared to be oxidized to As(V) by peroxide resulting from Ti(III) hydrolysis. The types of sludge produced by all coagulants passed the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure and the waste extraction test. When chemical costs were compared, FeCl3 was the most cost‐effective coagulant for As(III) and As(V) at all three pH values, and As(III) chemical coagulation costs were five to 20 times higher than those for As(V). Alum was four to eight times the cost of FeCl3 for As(V) removal.
In the Long Run
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Infrastructure continues to be a top concern of water utility executives ‐ remaining among the top five critical issues identified in AWWA's State of the Industry survey since it first began in 2004. Among the specific issues identified by utility managers in the 2007 survey was the need for information about developing long‐term plans to replace aging, failing infrastructure instead of just patching problems as they occur. More and more utility managers are using asset management techniques to develop strategies to cost‐effectively manage their assets over the long term.
A valuation of ecological services in the Laurentian Great Lakes Basin with an emphasis on Canada
Authors: Krantzberg Gail , De Boer Cheryl
Published: February 2018

An estimated 35 million people rely on the Great Lakes for safe drinking water, and millions depend on healthy fish and wildlife safe for consumption. The authors note that the natural capital of the Great Lakes is worth tens of billions of dollars each year and that investing in the protection of this resource is ethically and financially imperative. The economic value of the Great Lakes and its value to the health of the people and the economy in Ontario, Canada, are described in this article. The authors provide a credible assessment of the contributions made by the Great Lakes to the local, provincial, regional, and national economies of Canada and to the Great Lakes region of the United States. The major uses of the Great Lakes for which economic value can be calculated either directly or indirectly are characterized, and the different benefits ascribable to different aspects of the Great Lakes economy that rely on water quality and water quantity are described.
Young Professionals Committee Surveys AWWA Sections for Student Activities
Authors: Mastran Trina
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the AWWA Young Professionals Committee's efforts at involving students in AWWA. It discusses a survey done of AWWA Sections to determine which sections had student committees and what activities they were providing. Results of the survey are discussed, in particular the need to develop student chapters or committees with section support. Tools and best practices should be developed based on existing section success stories. A national design competition or other type of student competition should be considered at the section level that would culminate at the association level to provide further student recognition. Using this information, the YP Committee will work with other association committees, staff, and the sections to develop a strategic plan to accomplish these goals.
Effect of water main repairs on water quality
Authors: Besner Marie‐Claude , Lavoie Jean , Morissette Chantal , Payment Pierre , Prévost Michèle
Published: February 2018

Sixteen planned repairs of pipe leaks in two distribution systems were investigated in 2004‐2005 to study the occurrence of microbial contamination associated with repair activities in full‐scale distribution systems. Soil and water samples were collected in pipe trenches, and distribution system water was collected at consumers— homes and at flushed hydrants. The frequency of detection of fecal microbial indicators in the soil and water surrounding the mains was low. Evidence of contamination in distribution system water (based on total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and aerobic endospores) was obtained at seven of the sixteen sites. The 17 positive samples (of a total of 424) were almost all collected during flushing; results suggested that adequate pipe flushing after a repair has been completed is an effective way to minimize contamination for this type of repair. Loss of chlorine residuals and turbidity peaks were also observed outside the repair areas.
Pressure‐relief valve selection and transient pressure control
Authors: Zhang Katherine Qinfen , Karney Bryan W. , McPherson David L.
Published: February 2018

A pressure relief valve (PRV) is installed for surge relief and pressure protection in a pipeline system. The valve, which is normally closed, is designed to open rapidly once its pressure setting is exceeded. A PRV—s effectiveness depends on the properties of the system, the characteristics of the surge experienced, and the way in which the valve—s attributes and settings are configured. This article illustrates the challenges inherent in PRV design and shows that an appropriately designed PRV can protect some systems from excessively high or low pressures and that inappropriate use can actually worsen a system—s transient response. The general principles of PRV use and selection are presented along with a sensitivity analysis of PRV parameters. Although this understanding is essential to effective system design, a PRV is selected by evaluating PRV viability and cost‐effectiveness in specific systems using numerical simulation.
Vertical Profiling Safeguards Drinking Water and Sheds Light on Cyanobacteria
Authors: Werblow Steve
Published: February 2018

This report discusses a search for algal toxins in North Carolina reservoirs that evolved into an ongoing early warning system for three important drinking water reservoirs that serve two large cities. The search also yielded a greater understanding of the dynamics of blue‐green algae, or cyanobacteria, in the state's reservoir system. Building on a pair of grants from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to explore key reservoirs for cyanotoxins, the Center for Applied Aquatic Ecology (CAAE), directed by JoAnn Burkholder at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, teamed up with the North Carolina cities of Raleigh and High Point to track cyanobacteria blooms throughout the water column. On the basis of continuous in situ water quality monitoring of the water column near the intake structures in three reservoirs, treatment plant operators can vary the depth at which they draw water into their plants, avoiding cyanobacteria blooms that can introduce toxins or affect taste and odor. The in situ data as well as manually collected measurements and grab samples also provide insight about the effect of weather and land use on cyanobacteria.
It's All About the Source
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Source water issues were named by utilities in the 2008 State of the Industry Report (to be published next month) as the most important ones they will face over both the near term (one to two years) and the long term (three to five years). Some of the more forward‐thinking utilities are ahead of the game, and already have programs in place to address such issues as augmentation, watershed protection, source water management, and sustainability, to name just a few.
Tualatin Valley Water District takes next steps toward sustainability
Authors: Welch Cheryl
Published: February 2018

Many U.S. water agencies are operating in the business‐ as‐usual mode when it comes to sustainability. With today's climate variability and increasingly scarce resources, utilities must look at the bigger picture; it makes sense to align today's decisions with our long‐term financial, environmental, and social goals. This article outlines how one mid‐sized water district has taken simple steps to be responsible to today's customers as well as to future generations. By acting now to reduce toxins, save energy, and support employee health and safety, water utilities can save money, avoid future regulatory problems, and garner public goodwill. Water suppliers can apply this information in their operations today and in the future. Many of the steps listed are not difficult. However, if a majority of water suppliers took these actions, great progress could be made in lessening the negative environmental effects and in strengthening the positive effects their organizations have in their communities, while keeping rates affordable for their customers.
Zeroing in on ZLD Technologies for Inland Desalination
Authors: Bond Rick , Veerapaneni Srinivas (Vasu)
Published: February 2018

Many communities need affordable inland desalination to meet increasing water demands by making brackish water sources available for use in supplementing existing water supplies or to control the salinity of current sources. Most desalination technologies generate two streams, a desalinated product water stream and the saline byproduct referred to as concentrate. Management of the concentrate stream, typically 15‐30% of the feed flow, presents the greatest challenge to implementing desalination. This research demonstrated the novel use of existing technologies to reduce the cost and energy consumption for desalination with zero liquid discharge (ZLD) of concentrate. Test results indicated treatment of the concentrate for further recovery by a second application of reverse osmosis could lead to significant reductions in desalination costs and energy consumption to achieve ZLD. The approach described here could cut ZLD costs by 50‐70% and reduce energy consumption by 60‐75% compared with established methods currently in use.
Red Flags Rule Summary
Authors: Holmes Tommy
Published: February 2018

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the federal bank regulatory agencies, and the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) have issued regulations (the Red Flags Rules) requiring financial institutions and creditors to develop and implement written identity theft prevention programs as part of the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions (FACT) Act of 2003. The programs must be in place by Nov. 1, 2008, and must provide for the identification, detection, and response to patterns, practices, or specific activities. This article lists basic requirements of the rule, and provides program details.
System Planning for Total Site Security
Authors: Scott Bill
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the critical components of an effective security system for the water utility industry. Perimeter security, gate security, CCTV/video systems, building security systems, and access control are discussed.
Is Moore's Law at Work in the Water Industry?
Authors: Zimmerman Gary J.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Director Gary Zimmerman correlates Moore's law to the rapid advancement of detection methodologies for trace amounts of pharmaceuticals in some U.S. drinking water supplies. However, Zimmerman points out there is no scientific evidence that shows an impact on human health at these trace levels. He goes on to state that if Moore's law has created a gap between detection and known public health effects, AWWA will continue to be an advocate for research to ensure that regulations and public perception are properly grounded in science.
Maintaining the Status Flow
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Whether you're talking about preparedness, emergency response, or security, the end goal is the same: to ensure the continued provision of safe water to your community. This month's focus articles look at three significant issues and provide guidance on how to handle each one: chlorine gas security, pandemic influenza, and the cultural fit of security in day‐to‐day operations.
Improving OMB Regulatory Review
Authors: Pontius Fred
Published: February 2018

The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) within the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has played an important role in the federal regulatory process for many decades. The regulatory review process is multifaceted, and several Executive Orders and laws have been enacted over the years that added various requirements to improve the process. Existing requirements regarding drinking water regulation under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) are briefly reviewed in this article, including the following: administrative procedures; evaluation of significant regulatory actions; consideration of small entities; paperwork reduction; achieving regulatory flexibility; unfunded mandates reform; input from state and local governments; input from Indian tribal governments; protection of children; actions affecting energy supply, distribution, or use; use of voluntary consensus standards; environmental justice; SDWA consultation provisions; effect on technical, financial, and managerial capacity; congressional review; and, defining a new regulatory process.
It's a Small World After All
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

It's no coincidence that all of this month's articles are identified as being part of the focus topic ‐ International Issues ‐ because there really aren't any topics that aren't of concern worldwide. While it's true that not all opportunities or problems exist at every water utility, water professionals around the globe are always interested in what their counterparts are doing. The subjects covered in this issue ‐ from media coverage of emerging contaminants to an alternative method for reclaiming perchlorate‐contaminated waters ‐ are but a sampling of the myriad issues faced by water purveyors around the world.
The Final Barrier
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

From the treatment plant to the tap, water quality can change significantly. As this month's articles show, it can be compromised by such occurrences as pipe repairs, interactions between disinfectants and pipe walls, and copper leaching from system materials. On the other hand, water quality in the distribution system can also be improved ‐ by using components made from nonleaded‐brass alloys and by optimizing operational control.
ACESA Cap‐and‐Trade to Affect Water Utilities
Authors: Pontius Fred
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACESA), proposed by Representatives Henry Waxman (D‐CA) and Ed Markey (D‐MA), and is also referred to as the “Waxman‐Markey Cap‐and‐Trade Bill.” The bill is more than 900 pages long and includes a two‐pronged approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The first is a set of mandates requiring efficiencies on industry and consumers without regard to costs and benefits. Mandates include requirements for low‐carbon motor fuels and a tenfold increase in the production of electricity from renewable sources. The second is a cap‐and‐trade program that sets absolute limits on total emissions of greenhouse gases. The article discusses the following specific aspects of the bill: Title 1 ‐ Clean Energy; Title 2 ‐ Energy Efficiency; Title 3 ‐ Global Warming; Title 4 ‐ Transitioning to a Clean Energy Economy; effectiveness of ACESA; ACESA economic effects; and, effect on public water system rates.
Rate of chloramine decay at pipe surfaces
Authors: Westbrook Andrew , Digiano Francis A.
Published: February 2018

Characterizing the rate of chloramine loss at pipe surfaces is crucial for predicting the rate of decay within the distribution system (DS). Chloramines in finished water are relatively stable, yet they do autodecompose. However, significant loss of stability can occur in the DS where interaction with pipe surfaces is a major source of chloramine loss. Myriad factors complicate in situ measurement of the surface reaction rate including spatially varying pipe material, age, and condition, as well as temporally varying hydraulics. In this study, a bench‐scale, pipe section reactor was used to determine chloramine surface reaction rate constants for cementlined ductile‐iron pipe and tuberculated, unlined cast‐iron pipe. Chloramine decay was found to be first order for both of these pipe materials. Surface reaction rates were calculated by accounting for the influence of water velocity on mass transfer of chloramine to the pipe surface, and therefore the overall chloramine decay rate. Temperature and pH were varied to determine the effect on surface reaction rates for a range of conditions common to the DS.
Foundation Problems Evaporate for Maryland Plant
Authors: Ourand Chris
Published: February 2018

In early 2008, the Frederick County (Maryland) Division of Utilities and Solid Waste Management awarded a $72.9 million contract to expand its New Design Road Water Treatment Plant (NDRWTP). The project nearly tripled the size of the treatment plant's capacity from 8.8 to 25 mgd. The article discusses construction challenges created by the karst terrain around Frederick County, and describes the use of micropiles to provide both tension and compression resistance when drilled through overlying weak layers of soil, and then “socketed” into bedrock.
Ameliorating water crises through sustainable wastewater reuse in Hengshui, China
Authors: Ojekunle Olusheyi Z. , Zhao Lin , Li Ruopu , Tan Xin , Lv Wenming , Bangura Hamza I.
Published: February 2018

Wastewater recycling and reuse systems are commonly used to ameliorate water crises and could provide additional water resources as well as reduce or eliminate pollution. Given the economic difficulties of sustaining operations, however, a cost‐effective wastewater reclamation system is critically important. A wastewater reclamation system was designed for the Taocheng District of Hengshui, China, a region suffering both a water crisis and financial difficulties. The project incorporates a sewage treatment plant, natural waterways, and a constructed wetland, all designed with careful consideration of local hydrologic and geographic conditions. The authors address the system—s role in guaranteeing effluent quality and quantity and the estimated anticipated benefits—including those from accompanying land‐use changes—that serve to offset operational expenses. The authors believe that when cost‐benefit considerations are taken into account, the wastewater reclamation proposal described here represents a viable and feasible project that offers a sustainable solution to China—s water crisis.
Occurrence of Naegleria fowleri in Arizona drinking water supply wells
Authors: Kelly R. Bright , Francine Marciano‐Cabral , Charles P. Gerba
Published: February 2018

Naegleria fowleri is a protozoan found naturally in hot springs and warm surface waters. It can cause usually lethal primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. The goal of this study was to determine the occurrence of N. fowleri in drinking water supply wells in Arizona. Nested polymerase chain reaction was used to detect trophozoites and cysts, but not to assess viability. A total of 185 samples were collected from 113 wells before disinfection. The presence of N. fowleri deoxyribonucleic acid was confirmed in 10.6% of wells. No correlations were found between the presence of N. fowleri and heterotrophic bacteria, coliforms, Escherichia coli, temperature, specific conductance, or turbidity. N. fowleri was detected in 10.0% of initial and 17.2% of purged well samples, suggesting that N. fowleri may be present in the aquifer or detach from the well casing or pump column during pumping.
Water quality assessment of groundwater treated with a membrane biofilm reactor
Authors: Ziv‐El Michal C. , Rittmann Bruce E.
Published: February 2018

A water quality evaluation was conducted for groundwater treated by a membrane biofilm reactor; the treatment target was bioreduction of nitrate (~ 9.4 mg/L N) and perchlorate (12.5 μg/L). When hydrogen (H2) was limited, the order of H2 utilization was dissolved oxygen, nitrate, nitrite, chlorate, perchlorate, and then sulfate, which was reduced to H2S only if the H2 pressure was high and all other oxidized compounds were at least 99.5% reduced. Because nitrite and H2S are easy to measure in the field, this reduction order allows a convenient means for onsite monitoring of the appropriate H2 pressure. Advective H2 loss was negligible, acetate and methane were not formed, and increases in dissolved organic carbon and biodegradable dissolved organic carbon were negligible. The increase in alkalinity (20‐40 mg/L as calcium carbonate) was associated only with nitrite reduction, and hardness was not lost to calcium carbonate precipitation when the influent Langlier saturation index was ~ ‐0.44.
Trust Fund Versus Water Bank: Which is the Better Way to Increase Infrastructure Investment?
Authors: Curtis Tom
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a proposal put forth by AWWA for Congress to create a national water infrastructure bank and authorize it to be capitalized by borrowing money from the treasury at or below long‐term treasury rates. The bank, in turn, would lend to (i.e., invest in) water and wastewater infrastructure projects at those low rates. There is no net loss to the federal government over time and no effect on the deficit, assuming the bank offers no subsidy. The bank would also lend to states that wish to “leverage” their state revolving funds (SRFs) by purchasing SRF bonds at very low interest. Unlike a trust fund, a water bank would not require new taxes nor would it increase the federal deficit. It represents a way for the U.S. Treasury to make an investment in U.S. infrastructure – an investment that would be repaid with interest.
How effective is utility leadership?
Authors: Gerstberger Richard L. , Gromala Karen A.
Published: February 2018

A leadership assessment analysis administered nationwide to nearly 30,000 participants measured the intention or energy put forth by managers toward 22 leadership and management behaviors. The results of that analysis were then used as a yardstick against which the results of a study of the effectiveness of more than 300 utility managers were measured. The article discusses four patterns that surfaced from the data which, according to the authors, signal that many utility leaders will be unprepared to deal with the coming tide of changes in business operations and the workforce. Utility managers must delegate the day‐to‐day operations, develop their leadership team, and guide long‐term organizational goal attainment.
A new reason to sing in the shower
Authors: Thornton Stephanie , Tanner Stephanie
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA'S) WaterSense® showerhead development. Staff on the USEPA's (USEPA's) WaterSense program have spent the past two years developing the agency's draft specification for showerheads, which was released for public comment in September 2009. To create the specification, WaterSense staff members collaborated with a number of plumbing industry leaders, including product manufacturers, product certification bodies, water utilities, and other stakeholders, who participated in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) joint task force on water‐efficient showerheads. Together with this task force, USEPA has created a protocol that will be used to test and certify WaterSense‐labeled showerheads that deliver water efficiency and performance.
Shared Challenges
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Whether you run a utility in Paris, France, or Paris, Nebraska, it's likely that you share a number of common concerns and face similar challenges. Issues such as supply availability, water rates, revenue shortfalls, disaster recovery, and operational considerations know no borders.
Emergency Water Supply Planning, Part 1: Hospitals and Health Care Facilities
Authors: Spence Shannon , Roberson J. Alan , Tebrand Dave Hil
Published: February 2018

This article begins by providing examples of the negative impact on a community of losing its water supply, and in particular, the impact of such a loss on hospitals and other health care facilities. AWWA, in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), developed a health care facility handbook titled “The Emergency Water Supply Planning Guide for Hospitals and Health Care Facilities”. The goal of this project was to provide guidance for health care facilities in evaluating their water use and determining how it might be curtailed in an emergency, and in developing an emergency water supply plan (EWSP) for the facility. The planning guide walks a facility through four steps to develop an EWSP: Step 1 ‐ assemble the team and background documentation; Step 2 ‐ water use audit; Step 3 ‐ analyze emergency water supply alternatives; and, Step 4 ‐ develop EWSP and test/exercise/revise.
A look at the challenges—and opportunities—in the world water market
Authors: Maxwell Steve
Published: February 2018

This wide‐ranging article provides a generalized overview of broad trends in the water industry, including expected drivers of future growth, not the least of which will be ever‐increasing demand as population, economic output, and standards of living continue to increase and the supply of water remains fixed. The article also comes with a warning that we have been careless with our most precious natural resource. Unless we are willing to make some changes in our habits and ante up the money to pay for something closer to what it really costs to produce and deliver our water, we may find that in the not‐too‐distant future it will not be so readily available. Utilities need to learn how to better market the value of the product they produce ‐ water ‐ so that a cost‐conscious and skeptical public is more appreciative and aware of the fact that clean water is not a simple, free luxury. It costs money to produce, it will cost more in the future, and it is well worth it.
A conversation with water utility managers
Authors: Ginley Jim , Ralston Sandra
Published: February 2018

This article provides insights for utility managers who have an “ear” to the conversation about what their peers across the country believe to be the most important issues affecting their utilities, and what they believe are possible solutions. In a series of lunchtime workshops held across the country over the course of 2009, managers discussed the effects of five areas on their utilities: environment, finance, infrastructure, workforce, and community. Within these five areas the major issues that surfaced were remarkably consistent, given the diversity of the participants. One especially significant finding was the need for utility managers to continue talking to one another in order to move collaboratively toward solutions. The consistency of these findings brings into focus the need for solutions that can provide momentum for utility managers to act together.
Chlorine fate and transport in distribution systems: Experimental and modeling studies
Authors: Clark Robert M. , Yang Y. Jeffrey , Impellitteri Christopher A. , Haught Roy C. , Schupp Donald A. , Panguluri Srinivas , Krishnan E. Radha
Published: February 2018

It has become generally accepted that water quality can deteriorate in a distribution system through microbiological and chemical reactions in the bulk phase and/or at the pipe wall. The most serious aspect of water quality deterioration in a network is the loss of the disinfectant residual that can weaken the barrier against microbial contamination. Studies have suggested that one factor contributing to the loss of disinfectant residuals is the reaction between bulk‐phase disinfectants and pipe wall material. Free chlorine loss in corroded metal and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, subject to changes in velocity, was assessed during an experiment conducted under controlled conditions in a specially constructed pipe loop at the US Environmental Protection Agency's test and evaluation facility in Cincinnati, Ohio. These studies demonstrated that in older unlined metal pipes, the loss of chlorine residual increases with velocity but that wall demand in PVC was negligible.
Effect of UV treatment on DBP formation
Authors: Reckhow David A. , Linden Karl G. , Kim Junsung , Shemer Hilla , Makdissy Gladys
Published: February 2018

This study—s objective was to investigate the effect of ultraviolet (UV) treatment on the subsequent formation of regulated and unregulated disinfection by‐products (DBPs). UV treatment of two sets of waters did not substantially change the waters— tendency to form trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids, or total organic halogen under the conditions of these tests. Evidence was found of small reductions in the formation of these DBPs, but the decreases did not exceed 10%. Formation of chloropicrin and 1,1,1‐trichloropropanone increased as a result of medium‐pressure UV treatment but remained at levels well below those of the regulated DBPs. Low‐pressure UV did not cause any detectable increase in chloropicrin formation. The authors propose that photonitration leads to the formation of new nitroorganics during UV treatment and these form halonitromethanes during subsequent chlorination. It is recommended that the effects of UV treatment on nonregulated DBPs be considered as new UV drinking water systems are brought on line.
Recent USPS Standard Means Implementing Stricter Mailing Requirements
Authors: Stephens Harry
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the Move Update standards implemented by the U.S. Postal Service and the possibility of increased postal fees for utilities as a result. It requires utilities and other companies to update customer and member addresses kept on file within 95 days immediately preceding a mailing, but also now assesses a fine on those mailings deemed noncompliant. However, the mandate encourages utilities to maintain their customer files and keep addresses updated, thus saving money in the long run.
Trenchless Technologies: Ensuring the Most Value for Municipal Assets
Authors: Struzziery John J.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses using trenchless technologies within a comprehensive asset management plan to minimize the effects associated with maintaining an infrastructure, particularly in terms of upgrades or replacements. Trenchless application, when properly planned, will minimize traffic disruptions and lower noise and dust levels. Other benefits of trenchless technologies are discussed, along with several different methods of performing trenchless technology.
The Silver Bullet for Aging Water Distribution Systems?
Authors: Baird Gregory M.
Published: February 2018

This article presents polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe as the silver bullet to meet the challenges and costs associated with the aging water infrastructure crisis for water and wastewater systems. PVC pipe has a smooth, noncorrosive, and bacteria‐resistant surface that stays clean for decades. The article discusses the areas of the country that have the highest pipe failures, replacement costs, developer fees and ratepayer affordability, life‐cycle costing, carbon footprint testing, leak detection monitoring of PVC pipes, and affordable pipe sustainability.
Protecting Public Health and the Distribution System—Optimizing Consequence Management Procedures in a CWS
Authors: Fencil Jeffrey F. , Lee Yeongho , Swertfeger Jeff , Noble Tom
Published: February 2018

In the April JOURNAL's Security and Preparedness column, “Developing SOPs for the Investigation of Distribution System Contamination,” Allgeier and co‐authors discussed the importance of having established procedures that guide the day‐to‐day monitoring of a contamination warning system (CWS) and the investigation that follows an alert. The article in this month's Security and Preparedness column highlights examples and lessons learned from the CWS pilot program in Cincinnati, Ohio, which is primarily operated by the Greater Cincinnati Water Works. The information is presented as a series of questions and answers that arise during a fictional contamination incident.
Estimating commercial, industrial, and institutional water use on the basis of heated building area
Authors: Morales Miguel A. , Heaney James P. , Friedman Kenneth R. , Martin Jacqueline M.
Published: February 2018

The commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) sectors are significant contributors to public water demand. To estimate CII water use, utilities historically have relied on water use coefficients that use the number of employees as the measure of size. However, it is difficult to obtain this information at a resolution fine enough to differentiate among individual water users and adequately evaluate water conservation options. To overcome these challenges, a methodology was developed to estimate CII water use through spatial, physical, and economic property‐based information publicly available from the Florida Department of Revenue (FDOR) for each of the 8.8 million parcels in the state. Water use data for 3,172 CII parcels were linked with FDOR data to develop average and peak water use coefficients normalized by heated building area. By estimating water use at the parcel level, the methodology provides baseline water use estimates essential to evaluating water conservation options.
I'm Not Oprah, Part 2
Authors: Lafrance David
Published: February 2018

In the April 2011 issue of Journal AWWA, LaFrance ventured into uncharted territory by offering a list of recommended reading for water professionals. Since then, the importance of understanding how water shapes our lives and the communities we live in continues to provide inspirational fodder for both the water professional turned author and the author turned water professional. In hopes of helping you narrow down your 2013 reading choices, LaFrance offers several recommendations.
ACE13: Where Water Professionals Shop for Value
Authors: Lafrance David
Published: February 2018

No other water event unites the world of water the way ACE does. This year ACE13 is even better. It has been redesigned to provide you with new and improved learning and networking experiences. As in past years, ACE13 will have great technical sessions. Shared learning between water professionals is a hallmark of ACE, but this year it will be taken to a new level.
A River Runs Through Him
Authors: Lafrance David
Published: February 2018

Strolling along a powerful river, the author and a friend reminisce about how that river shaped the friend's city ‐ and his professional life. As is true for many in the water profession, an innate, almost primal, connection with this most important resource led each of them to become a part of an industry dedicated to its provision and preservation.
On the Edge of a Transformation
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

One of the oldest of treatment processes, filtration ‐ like so many parts of today's finely orchestrated practices that make up the provision of safe drinking water ‐ goes largely unnoticed and underappreciated. Few remember that early distribution systems often delivered more than water. Witness the comment made by Abel Wolman that he found it incredible when rocks no longer came out of the faucet after filtration had been applied at the local treatment plant in the mid‐1900s. In those days, purveyors were concerned about filtering out actual rocks ‐ not rock‐sized particles. Today they're concerned about filtering out nanomaterials ‐ particles measuring less than a billionth of a metre on at least one dimension, visible only through a transmission electron microscope.
Desal Yields Benefits for Multiple Uses
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Desalination may still be in its infancy as a recognized part of the municipal drinking water treatment supply in North America, but its promise as a supplemental source of supply for regions where freshwater is scarce is beginning to be fulfilled. Projects such as those in Tampa Bay, Fla., and Carlsbad, Calif., are demonstrating the value of this technology for future sustainability. Although desalination is commonly thought of as a technology for the treatment of drinking water, its uses are expanding into other areas such as treatment of reverse osmosis concentrate and treatment of produced water and flowback from hydraulic fracturing.
Deciphering Drinking Water Regs
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

When you say the word “regulations,” people tend to go glassy‐eyed in anticipation of a confusing and convoluted journey through a forest of requirements. But for a concise and clear‐cut overview of the current regulatory scene, be sure to read this month's DC Beat. In addition, all of this month's peer‐reviewed articles focus on regulatory issues.
Fate or Choice—Twenty Years After Our First ACE
Authors: Lafrance David
Published: February 2018

LaFrance explores the question of whether fate or choice determines the direction of one's life and the interconnections that form unbeknownst to us as we travel on our separate journeys. Our life experiences can often follow parallel paths, ultimately culminating in synchronous events that bring us together. He chronicles his personal trek through time against the backdrop of AWWA's Annual Conference & Exposition.
Shaping Our Future
Authors: McGuire Michael J.
Published: February 2018

With this inaugural communication, McGuire pledges to begin the process of planning and implementing innovations that will serve AWWA and the Journal well into the 21st century. This month the focus was on distribution systems. In the months to come, McGuire looks forward to helping shape the future of water through the pages of Journal AWWA.
Shared Knowledge: A Celebration a Century in the Making
Authors: Lafrance David
Published: February 2018

Journal AWWA is celebrating a century of publication this month, and I confess that I am wrestling with how to put this past century into perspective. On one hand the events of 1914 and that era are events I learned about in history class. On the other hand, in the world of water a century is not a long time.
Think Your Ratepayers Don't Understand Finance? Think Again!
Authors: Lafrance David
Published: February 2018

You ‐ or someone at your utility ‐ wrestles with it almost every day ‐ how to best tackle the capital projects that will keep your utility sustainable. We hear about the backlog of projects that have resulted from the recent struggling economy, we hear about the importance of asset management strategies, and we are well aware that paying for these essential projects is complicated. Perhaps, however, the tide is turning.
Wealth‐Based Water Rates—Really?
Authors: Lafrance David , Curtis Tom
Published: February 2018

Last month in this column the authors discussed the challenges of ensuring the affordability of water service and the USEPA's new framework for addressing this challenge. As promised, this month's column would discuss a concept that some are vetting: the water industry might solve its affordability concern by overhauling its existing rate architecture and replacing it with one in which the relatively affluent pay more for water and wastewater services, and those less financially fortunate pay less.
Eddy & Me—One Big Splash!
Authors: LaFrance David
Published: February 2018

I was meeting him for the first time. I was nervous ‐ he was a big deal ‐ represented life itself. Moisture formed on the palms of my hands, beads of water appeared on my forehead, and suddenly I had cottonmouth ‐ I could use a glass of water … but would that be insulting? It was a couple of weeks before ACE15 and AWWA's newest member and mascot, Eddy, was in town. I was going to sit down with him and get to know him better. Then I thought to myself, what about the furniture? Should I put a towel down to protect it? Maybe some plastic? Then he flowed in ‐ calm and confident, with a cool, ice‐like demeanor, kind of like he covered 70% of the world. He put me at ease right away and we sat down to begin the interview.
Designing Literary Discussion With Podcasts
Authors: Bianchi‐Pennington Brooke
Published: February 2018

This forum highlights and evaluates apps, computer programs, and websites that teachers, students, and other interested parties can use to explore, research, and engage in content learning and literacy practices.