bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple Test Flags Changes in Taste and Odor
Authors: Burlingame Gary A. , McGuire Michael J.
Published: June 2018

This sensory test is a powerful tool for process control and can be used for routine testing and early warning. If a potential problem is detected or jar testing is needed to determine treatment changes, the reliable, yet more complex tests, such as TON and FPA, should be used. If a geosmin episode occurs, use an FPA panel to monitor the odor intensity of the earthy odor. It is vital to focus the limited energies of operators and process scientists on the changes in taste and odor quality. Once changes are flagged – hopefully taking only a small percentage of the overall time spent in testing water–then more detailed tests or actions can be pursued.
Can Model Unravel Haz‐Chemical Reg Tangle?
Authors: Brackbill Craig E. , DeZellar Jeffrey T.
Published: June 2018

Water treatment chemicals are subject to increasingly restrictive operational requirements. These restrictions are due to public concern about the potentially harmful environmental, public, and worker safety effects involved in the accidental release of toxic or explosive vapor clouds. The result of these regulations is a tangled, overlapping mosaic of programs and agencies. The authors suggest that a Risk Management Program model should be developed to reduce implementation costs and lighten the regulatory load of many systems.
One Step at a Time: Continuous Quality Improvement
Authors: Harmon Rick
Published: June 2018

Like most people, you've probably heard a lot about the quality movement in the past several years–how it's improving the products we buy and the services we receive. A commitment to quality in your organization can help you and your co‐workers do your jobs better and improve how your organization functions. Although launching a quality program takes time and effort, it's not as hard as you might think. A general outline of continuous quality improvement steps is contained in the article.
Reduce Injuries When Installing Heavy‐Duty Manholes
Authors: Elliott Sullivan James
Published: June 2018

Strained backs, pinched fingers, and wrenched hands are some of the common injuries that can occur when installing heavy‐duty manholes. To prevent these types of injuries, we fabricated a rim‐setting tool that allows a single employee to set a manhole rim or frame in place. We use this type manhole in many of our valve vaults and large meter pits.
Lower Your Maintenance and Operating Costs
Authors: Sheridan Brien
Published: June 2018

Pump failure, loss of capacity because of internal check valve problems, internal relief valve malfunctions, leaking oil, air in the hydraulic system, drive motor and electrical control failures–these were just some of the problems we experienced with our old system of metering pumps. This article describes a new, more reliable feed system, which is now in place at several of our plants.
Spring Storms: Operating Under Pressure
Authors: Yockachonis Larry J.
Published: June 2018

Maintaining operations during severe weather can be difficult. One particularly vulnerable area of a water treatment system is the storage tank telemetry unit. This article lists calculations used for making a chart listing psi values and corresponding levels, in feet, of storage tanks.
Pump Addition Fixes Tank Problem
Authors: Gardner Robert R.
Published: June 2018

The distribution system for the City of Westerville, Ohio, includes two pressure districts and three elevated water tanks. The first district includes two water storage tanks. Otterbein tank, the system's original tank, holds only 300,000 gal. Pointview tank, constructed later to meet increased system demand, holds a significantly higher volume of water—1.5 million gallons. The hydraulic gradient of the overflow on the Otterbein tank is 9 feet lower than the overflow of Pointview tank. Pointview was designed with an elevation difference to increase distribution system supply and pressure. The Otterbein tank uses an altitude valve to shut off the flow of water to the tank as it reaches overflow level. When distribution system pressure drops, the altitude valve opens and lets water out of the Otterbein tank. In order to drop distribution system pressure, we had to lower the Pointview tank considerably and shut off the plant's high‐service pumps. When demand peaked during the summer, it was not prudent to lower the tank level for fear of a resulting shortage of finished water. At the same time, there was concern about the Otterbein tank water becoming stagnant. One option was to take the tank completely out of service. However, we ruled this out because we wanted to maintain as much elevated storage of potable water as possible. The Westerville Water Plant Mechanical Department constructed a system that pumps water out of the Otterbein tank while allowing the altitude valve to continue working normally. The new system, which still employs an altitude valve to fill the tank, uses a pumps to lower the tank level.
Question of the Month
Authors: McDonald Joe
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks what AWWA does to help small water systems; why aren't small water systems represented in the leadership of AWWA Sections; and, how can a small water system manager play a meaningful role in AWWA at the section level? The answer stresses that too much is made of the distinction between small and large water systems; regardless of size, all water systems face the same challenge of consistently delivering water of acceptable quality and quantity to customers. The article states that all systems, regardless of size, use Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater as a tool for measuring the same maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). The article provides an example of a small systems manager moving up through the ranks in AWWA to become the Chair of AWWA's Intermountain Section .
Making Your Cross Connection Program Successful
Authors: Howell Mary , Nelson Linda
Published: June 2018

During the last year, the City of Forth Worth, Texas, has worked to improve its cross‐connection control program. Like most cities that work on backflow prevention issues, Fort Worth had many concerns about improving their program, protecting public health, and at the same time: providing clean safe drinking water; ensuring adequate fire protection; developing an active, ongoing but affordable program; involving everyone affected by the cross‐connection control program; controlling costs to the city and water users; and assessing the negative impact the program could have on the city's public relations program.
Trenching Excavations—Safe Work Site or Death Trap?
Authors: Brown Randy
Published: June 2018

It makes no difference if the workers in the trench are employed by your utility or by an outside contractor. Safe excavations are a must. Engineers should ensure that a project is done to OSHA standards. This article discusses: soil classifications; classification methods; and protection systems.
Why Is a Cross‐Connection Control Program Important?
Authors: Brammer Ray Ann
Published: June 2018

Recent court cases involving water purveyors make it clear that the water purveyor still has a duty to provide pure and wholesome water to its customers; that anything less can result in liability. A cross connection can jeopardize the integrity of the entire water system and can result in liability to the water purveyor. This article discusses several considerations in the adoption of a cross connection control program.
New Ammonia Feed System Meets Fort Worth's Needs
Authors: Hyde Ronny
Published: June 2018

The Fort Worth, Texas, Water Department has installed an innovative ammonia feed system at its Rolling Hills Water Treatment Plant. This article presents the rationale for the new feed system, including problems with the traditional ammonia feed system and its inability to handle the varied water pressures that occurred after a new ammonia injection site on the raw water pipeline was installed.
Use Log Measurements to Optimize Treatment
Authors: Hancock Keith W.
Published: June 2018

Before water managers, operators, and regulators can enhance treatment plant performance, it is essential to identify effective methods to accurately assess plant processes. There are many ways to evaluate plant conditions, including: particle counting; a composite correction program (CCP); turbidity reduction; microscopic particulate analysis (MPA); and pathogen removal. To enhance treatment plant operations, it is important to use an assessment tool that: provides enough sensitivity to evaluate even subtle changes in plant performance, and can produce repeatable information for comparing day‐to‐day operations. Although several tools are available, we will focus here on particle counting. Armed with our tool, we must now select a meaningful measurement to use with it.
Lowering Pumping Costs With Standby Generators
Authors: Rama K. Kalyan
Published: June 2018

Raw and finished water pumping typically consumes more than 70 percent of the energy at a surface water treatment plant. The Second Taxing District Water Department (STDWD) in Norwalk, Connecticut, realized that the annual energy costs at one of its pump stations could be reduced by 45 percent by making optimal use of a standby generator to power the pumps. This paper describes the four steps the STDWD used to decide whether to use commercial electricity or standby generators each month.
Source Water Protection: What's in It for You?
Authors: Ainsworth Steve , Brown Hamilton , Jehn Paul
Published: June 2018

Most of us would agree that a vaccination to prevent illness is well worth the time, expense, and inconvenience. Similarly, many communities are using source water protection methods to prevent drinking water supply contamination. Many communities, counties, and locally financed water districts have found that the less polluted water is before it reaches the treatment plant, the less extensive–and expensive–the efforts needed to safeguard the public's health.
It's in the Bag! Sandbagger Saves Money, Time, Backs
Authors: Earnest Al , Rudolph Bruce
Published: June 2018

Although a crew of eight people made 400 sandbags by hand per day, the demand for sandbags was higher than we could meet. We solved this problem by constructing a sandbagging device. Now, our crew can make 1,600 sandbags per day. This device saves two full workdays, translating to $1,920 per day in labor costs.
Well Site Selection—a Deep Subject
Authors: McDonald Joe
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns selecting the best site for drilling a new well. The answer states that the two most important considerations in site selection are well yield and water quality. The first step is to study available data at the state and federal geological and water resources agencies. The article lists what to look for as far as water quality issues, aquifer contamination, treatment costs vs. storage costs, seismic and resistivity tests, computer modeling, and sources of contamination.
Top 10 Questions About Alum and PACI
Authors: Lind Chris
Published: June 2018

General Chemical's Syracuse, New York, Technical Center, which has been in existence since the mid‐1940s, fields hundreds of inquiries from water treatment facilities each year on how to make best use of aluminum‐based coagulants. This article lists questions that are among the most frequently asked. The answers offer general guidelines that should be tailored to specific treatment situations.
Main Disinfection—Why Do It the Way We Do?
Authors: Burlingame Gary A. , Haas Charles N. , Pipes Wesley O.
Published: June 2018

An AWWA Research Foundation project, Development of Disinfection Guidelines for the Installation and Replacement of Water Mains, completed in 1996, investigated the questions of why we disinfect water mains the way we do. AWWA issued the first standard for disinfecting water mains in 1947. Over more than 40 years, the AWWA standard appears to have provided adequate safeguards for public health. Current practices are based on years of field experience and common sense. It was time to test new and used pipe and look at actual field situations of new construction and repairs to put some actual data behind the standard. This paper discusses the importance of water main disinfection and the dynamics of chlorination in mains.
Building Support for a Public Education Program
Authors: Post Dallas
Published: June 2018

While most system operators are aware of the benefits of a public education program, many do not know how to develop one of their own. This paper describes the evolution of a public education and information program in a small community and makes suggestions for initiating such programs.
Optimizing Distribution System Operations
Authors: Pizzi Nick
Published: June 2018

In addition to providing an adequate water supply and proper treatment at the water plant, facilities for distributing water to the consumer require careful attention. An improperly operated distribution system can be a source of problems and complaints and will undo the good that is accomplished at the plant. It makes no sense to optimize water plant operations and not optimize distribution system operations. This paper makes suggestions for effective distribution system flushing, recordkeeping, corrosion control, and monitoring. Storage tank turnover and cross connections are also addressed. Finally, construction and repair of pipes, main cleaning and operator training are discussed.
Distribution Valves: Selection, Installation, Maintenance
Authors: Hoff Joseph W.
Published: June 2018

Because many of the valves in a water distribution system are buried beneath roads, sidewalks, or landscapes, maintenance requirements can be costly to the utility and disruptive to the public. This paper discusses valve selection criteria, purchasing specifications, storage and installation practices, maintenance records, and valve exercise programs. By selecting and properly maintaining the right valves, the amount of maintenance required will be minimized.
Question of the Month
Authors: McDonald Joe
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks why the water looks milky during the cold winter months. The article discusses several reasons for this condition: water density is greater in cold weather, causing slower chemical reactions which make it difficult to get floc to settle; or, floc carrying through the filter as particulate floc. Adjusting pH in response to seasonal temperature variations, using ferric salts for coagulation during the winter months, jar testing, and temperature changes in cold water causing air binding in the filter are all discussed.
Symons Engenders Trust
Authors: Bendix Gilbert G.
Published: June 2018

Currently, in the field of chlorination, there appears to be a spreading misuse in the terminology of chlorine and chlorination compounds. The authors define gaseous chlorine, liquid chlorine, solid chlorine, aqueous chlorine and chlorine tablets, granules or powder.
So You Want to Be the Boss?
Authors: Ainsworth Leonard
Published: June 2018

At one time or another almost every waterworks employee has opined that he or she could do as good a job as—or a better job than—the boss. The boss may be an immediate supervisor, the superintendent, or even the general manager. What does it take to become the boss? The unspoken rules for advancement in the waterworks profession are at least as important as the more obvious steps. The article discusses the most straightforward steps that an entry‐level operations employee could take, as well as the unspoken rules for professional advancement.
Putting the Squeeze on Flexible Pipe
Authors: Glaser Russ
Published: June 2018

Clark Public Utilities in Vancouver, Washington, uses polyethylene (PE) pipe to provide water from the main water lines to the water meter at each customer location. During the process of installing water distribution mains and providing service for new construction, it sometimes is necessary to shut off the water service line connected to the meter. It also is necessary to shut off the flow of water when repairs, pipe maintenance, or pipe damage are encountered at an existing site. This article discusses the procedure used for squeezing off the flow in polyethylene pipe, including choosing a proper clamp and how to stop a water leak in the field.
Installing Relief Valves the Right Way
Authors: Noe Norman
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how to create a system whereby a water tank acts as a relief valve on the water system. This is usually a fail‐safe mechanism that stops excessive amounts of pressure from building up in the underground water lines. The article especially focuses on how to install relief valves, which are critical to the success of “replacing” the tank and relieving any excess water pressure.
Fine‐tuning Operations for Turbidity Problems
Authors: McDonald Joe
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns fine‐tuning operations for turbidity spikes after backwashing. The article suggests minimizing this problem by using a filter‐to‐waste cycle immediately after backwashing; or if this is not possible, simply keep the filter out of service for at least 4 hours. The article discusses approaches to use for low‐turbidity cold water and recommends a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) document as a resource guide for a Composite Correction Program (CCP). The article discusses the steps involved in the CCP, and provides a list of AWWA resources.
Process Optimization and the O&M Manual
Authors: Peterson Timothy
Published: June 2018

Process optimization is an important facet of maximizing efficiency in the water treatment industry. One of the most basic, yet often overlooked, optimization tools is proper process documentation. The most critical document is a complete operations and maintenance (O&M) manual, including standard operating procedures for all aspects of the process. This article discusses the value of an O&M manual, the processes involved in creating or evaluating a manual, the stakeholders that need to be involved, and what the manual should and should not contain.
Bennie's Baskets Make ‘Catchy’ Gadget
Authors: Ekman John , Iradi Bennie
Published: June 2018

The Jersey City Water Treatment Facility is a traditional 80‐mgd surface water treatment plant. The plant's sedimentation basins are equipped with plastic tube settlers to help increase settling efficiency. Over the years, sunlight, ice and overly aggressive cleaning techniques have deteriorated and damaged the plastic tube settlers. As a result, pieces of plastic commonly break off whenever the tube settlers are cleaned and can clog downstream piping. This article discusses how one of the plant's maintenance technicians used milk carton‐style crates to strain out any pieces of plastic or other debris.
Beating the Drum for Multi‐Drum Siphon Tubes
Authors: Simantel Gary
Published: June 2018

To meet the action levels of the Lead and Copper Rule, the Canby Water Treatment Plant (OR) used 25 percent sodium hydroxide (NaOH or caustic soda) to raise the pH of its water. They started with 50‐gal (190‐L) poly drums and used a diaphragm pump to inject the liquid directly into filter effluent. It became apparent that they needed to be able to have more than one drum on‐line at a time; under some conditions, a single drum would not last for even one day. This article discusses how, after some experimentation, staff came up with a design to allow many drums to be hydraulically connected by means of siphon tubes. The equipment and costs per device are listed, as well as construction and user information.
Consensus Reached on New Certification Requirements
Authors: Scheltens John P.
Published: June 2018

At its October 1997 meeting, the National Drinking Water Advisory Council (NDWAC) completed its formal recommendations to the US Environmental Protection Agency on the minimum guidelines for operator certification. These recommendations will affect every community water system (CWS) and every nontransient, noncommunity water system (NTNCWS) in the United States that serves 25 or more people or 15 or more service connections. Under these guidelines, every CWS and NTNCWS will require at least the oversight of a certified operator. This article discusses the NDWAC recommendations for establishing minimum national guidelines for operator certification, while giving states maximum flexibility to administer and implement the program. Since forty‐nine states already have some sort of operator certification program, the recommendations were intended to strengthen, rather than dilute or diminish, existing programs. The article also discusses the baseline operator certification standards as recommended by the NDWAC.
Keys to Lime Handling and Process Control
Authors:   AWWA Coagulation and Filtration Committee, Elliott Larry E. , Alvarez Matthew B.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses solutions to make conveying lime slurry easier and to control scale buildup after lime addition. This article is the first of a two part series prepared by the AWWA Coagulation and Filtration Committee. Part II follows in the June 1998 issue of Opflow.
Program Could Aid Source Water Protection
Authors: Talbert Gerald F.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the National Conservation Buffer Initiative, a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) program to help US farmers install 2 million miles of conservation buffers by the year 2002. Topics discussed include: the definition of a conservation buffer; how buffers form a second line of defense in conservation strategy; how a successful agricultural program translates into benefits for water utilities; how stakeholders can contribute; and, financing for similar programs.
Current Practices in Water Tank Maintenance
Authors: Lund Theodore
Published: June 2018

This article discusses new cleaning and maintenance methods for water storage tanks. Topics include: operation issues created by tank cleaning; sediment disposal problems; underwater cleaning by divers; remotely operated vehicle (ROV) cleaning; and, cathodic protection. A companion article on page one of this issue, New Methods Improve Water Tank Inspection, examines improvements in water tank inspection methods.
Book Offers Case Studies in Corrosion Control
Authors: Faust Samuel D. , Aly Osman M.
Published: June 2018

This article is an excerpt from Chapter 10 of the book, “Chemistry of Water Treatment, 2nd ed.” Several case studies of corrosion control are given in this section in chronological order. A historical perspective of corrosion control techniques prior to the advent of the Lead and Copper Rule is given.
Only a Mad Scientist Would Ignore It
Authors: Brown Randy
Published: June 2018

This article gives suggestions on how to adequately evaluate a laboratory for safety concerns. Topics covered include: hazardous chemicals; Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS); employee safety training; personal protective equipment; earthquake preparedness; chemical minimization and waste disposal; and, hazardous waste drums.
Millennium Bug: Y2K Less Than 10 Months Away
Authors: McDonald Joe
Published: June 2018

The Small Utility Network received a call from a small water system concerned about the possible effects of the Y2K bug on their water systems. Topics discussed include: electrical power outages; interruption of service from suppliers of treatment chemicals; embedded systems in chemical pacing controllers; possible legal implications; importance of having a disaster plan in place. Other sources of information from AWWA on Y2K preparedness are given, along with results from a survey on Y2K preparedness.
Pressure Tanks Suitable for Some Systems
Authors: McDonald Joe
Published: June 2018

This question of the month concerns the purposes of hydropneumatic tanks, the advantages and disadvantages of pressure tanks, and whether they are the best choice for a water system.
Water Hose Chlorinator Takes Top 1999 Honors
Authors: Greeley Mark
Published: June 2018

This article describes the Potable Water Hose Chlorinator, which was developed to efficiently disinfect hoses used for temporary water service and to ensure customer safety.
Gritty Problems Call for Irrigation Technology
Authors: Norum Edward
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how, if sand is a problem in your water supply system, it should be possible to specify equipment that provides the best possible commercial answer. This starts with a sand separator capable of removing at least 95 percent of total sand contaminants. The sand separator can then be followed in‐line by a disk or screen filter capable of removing also at least 95 percent of remaining sand contaminants retained on a 140‐mesh sieve. This standard can be met by commercially available hardware. Ultimately, an established performance standard on sand filters and sand separators for water utilities could improve overall system operation.
Surveys Uncover Undetected Leaks
Authors: Fenney Gary A.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses leak detection and the use of a leak survey to pinpoint the location of the leak. A leak survey uses sensitive electronically amplified sensors that allow the technician with headphones to hear leaks through pipes from fire hydrants, main line valves, and service valves and meters up to several hundred feet away from the leak, depending on pipe size, material, and pressure on the system.
Main Break Spray Shield Keeps Crew Dry
Authors: Dunn Bob
Published: June 2018

The Main Break Spray Shield has been used to repair breaks on 6‐in. water mains at 60 to 65 psi without getting crews wet. The only real limit to the use of the shield has been if damage to a pipe is so severe that the pumps being used to dewater the excavation cannot keep up. The Main Break Spray Shield minimizes a main break's impact on water service by allowing crews to fix leaks easily without shutting off large areas and by reducing the need to notify extended areas of a water shutdown.
Pressure Management Helps Reduce Losses
Authors: Thornton Julian
Published: June 2018

This article discusses pressure management, which is the practice of controlling the amount of water pressure by decreasing it where it is excessive, maintaining it where it is sufficient, and sustaining it where it is weak or unpredictable. Topics covered include: management by sector; pump control; throttled system valves; fixed outlet hydraulic control; time‐based modulation; and, flow‐based dynamic modulation.
Solving Customers' Taste and Odor Complaints
Authors: Burlingame Gary A.
Published: June 2018

This is the second article of a two‐part series. The first installment, published in last month's issue, addressed the importance of the first response to a customer complaint when solving taste and odor problems. This installment details how to identify and solve problems.
Top Ten Steel Storage Tank Tasks to Tackle
Authors: Promin Janet T. , Braune Steven L.
Published: June 2018

This article describes the ten most important things to know to avoid potential problems when designing, erecting, demolishing, or rehabilitating your steel water storage tanks.
Storage Tanks Can Be a Contamination Source
Authors: Yarlott Nelson
Published: June 2018

This question of the month concerns using hydrogen peroxide to disinfect water storage tanks where positive total coliform test results were found in the distribution system without having to take the tank out of service. Citing the Total Coliform Rule, the answer states that the proper procedures for disinfection of the storage tank require that it be taken out of service and drained.
Well Water Disinfection Sparks Surprises
Authors: Reiber Steve , Dostal Glenn
Published: June 2018

The installation of chlorination at a mid‐size Midwestern water system set in motion a series of events that shocked managers and raised a perplexing chemical question. The situation, ironically, also may have briefly threatened the health of the public they were working diligently to serve.
More Help from Online Resources Around the World
Authors: Yarlott Nelson
Published: June 2018

As a follow up to the March Question of the Month that discussed Internet access and AWWA's website, this article describes several other sites that give information on regulatory updates, changes in treatment technologies, and educational opportunities. They are also broken down into geographic areas such as the United States, Native American sites, Canadian sites, and international sites.
New Reg Tightens Small System Requirements
Authors: Hamele William , Robichaud Jeffery
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the three purposes of the proposed Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment and Filter Backwash Rule (LT1FBR), which applies to public water systems using surface water or groundwater under the direct influence of surface water. Other topics of the rule discussed in this article include turbidity, benchmarking, and recycling provisions. The AWWA Filter Backwash Recycle Statement is included.
Rates—Consider Conservation Pricing
Authors: Jordan Jeffrey L.
Published: June 2018

Pricing for water conservation can save water resources and increase system revenues. That's why the Spalding County Water Authority voted unanimously for a new increasing rate structure. This article discusses uniform rate and increasing rate structures and outlines the results of implementing an increasing rate structure.
Planning and Budgeting Is Everybody's Job
Authors: McEncroe John
Published: June 2018

This article discusses methods to involve the entire staff of a water plant in the financial planning/budgeting for short‐term and long‐term operational, maintenance, and capital needs. Methods for categorizing investments by unit process are discussed along with tracking major maintenance costs. Suggestions are given on presenting the proposal in a concise and easily understandable format.
Hydrant Meter Assemblies Ensure Proper Use
Authors: Douglas Larry
Published: June 2018

The new hydrant meter assemblies provide several pieces in one unit. They are equipped with a meter, a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer, and 6 ft. of 2 1/2 in. fire hose and are protected by a steel frame. Materials, costs, and construction directions are included.
Cooling Towers Provide Happy Home for Legionella
Authors: Yarlott Nelson
Published: June 2018

This question of the month discusses the bacteria Legionella pneumophila and how certain man‐made systems such as cooling towers can provide an ideal habitat for bacteria to multiply. Conditions that affect its growth rate are listed, along with treatment methods and the five basic principles for controlling Legionella. A web site is listed for obtaining a copy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's protocol for the control of Legionnaires' disease.
Taking a New Look at an Old Process
Authors: Adkinson Craig , Schnieders Michael
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the experience that the Chanute, Kansas, water plant had with fouling their anthracite and rapid sand filters. Biofilm and mineral buildup was discovered. Samples were taken to determine the extent of fouling and also to determine the proper cleaning chemicals to use. Several dispersant chemicals were selected for cleaning and it was found that laboratory analysis proved to be a valuable tool since it provided the extent and composition of media fouling.
Students Give Online Institute Thumbs‐up
Authors: Klausen Sheila
Published: June 2018

This article describes AWWA's Online Institute, which offers courses over the internet to prepare for certification, collect continuing education units, and learn new information to perform day‐to‐day jobs more professionally and efficiently. It benefits those who work in remote locations and offers unique flexibility. Immediate feedback on answers to quiz questions is given.
Learning to Live (Well) with Shift Work
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the pros and cons of working shift work and makes suggestions as to improving the lives of shift workers.
Pilot Identifies Best Backwash Pretreatment
Authors: Lew Julia , Patawaran Rowena
Published: June 2018

Filter backwash water can contain significantly greater concentrations of Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium oocysts than are present in the source water. The pending Filter Backwash Rule will require that water recycled to the treatment plant must be returned prior to the point of primary coagulant addition and a cycle self‐assessment be performed to reduce the pathogen threat. This article describes how the Betasso Water Treatment Plant in Boulder, Colorado, conducted pilot studies that determined the best pretreatment technology for the plant would be dissolved air flotation. The necessary elements of a backwash pretreatment program are listed, along with a discussion of several processes that were evaluated that included: ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection and ozonation; membrane filtration; diatomaceous earth filtration; ballasted floc; dissolved air flotation; and, inclined (Lamella) plate settling.
Iron Bacteria Still Bugging Operators
Authors: Yarlott Nelson
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about controlling iron bacteria in a new well that intersects two unique aquifers. Topics covered include: a history of iron bacteria; effects of iron bacteria; treatment for iron bacteria; and, suggestions for new well site construction.
Don't Let Sand Grind Up Pumps and Profits
Authors: Delinkos Randy
Published: June 2018

This article discusses several different methods for protecting pumps from sand, but specifically focuses on the pump‐protection sand separator that uses a centrifugal‐action process. A listing of key informational points to consider when selecting the right sand separator model for the job is given.
Automated Meter Reading a Boon for North Carolina City
Authors: Clark Jimmy A.
Published: June 2018

This article describes how the Public Works Department of the City of Conover, North Carolina, converted their meter‐reading system to an automated system (AMR). They also replaced all 3/4 inch meters with new positive displacement meters, which would be beneficial in the continued evaluation of the new AMR system and possibly increase sales revenues by providing more accurate readings.
Classifying and Categorizing On‐line Filter Turbidity
Authors: Guest Kate , Jadczak Norman
Published: June 2018

This article describes how the Philadelphia Water Department joined the Partnership for Safe Water program and now consistently produces finished water with turbidities below 0.10 ntu. Criteria is given for postbackwash turbidity performance of treatment plant filters, along with three condition categories for filters not performing at the Class 1 goals.
Good Customer Relations Key to Success
Authors: Miller Sharon
Published: June 2018

This article discusses methods of improving communication with the public on community‐intrusive improvement projects. Methods discussed include: a videotape emphasizing areas where customers commonly had problems; improving the initial letter mailed to customers; developing a fact sheet for the staff; conducting a post‐project survey; and, holding a public meeting before starting a project.
Ten Practices of Highly Effective Water Utilities
Authors: Beecher Janice A. , Rubin Scott J.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses 10 categories of recognized practices in a number of key performance areas that help water utilities improve their effectiveness. They include: preparing reports; managing information; following a budget; practicing self‐improvement; conducting audits; performing studies; seeking revenue enhancements; accepting peer review; planning strategically; and, exploring restructuring.
PAHS May Help Achieve D/DBP Compliance
Authors: Deutschman John , Exall Kirsten , Lever Gordon , Mayo Jeff , van Loon Gary
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a new coagulant called partially neutralized alum‐polyaluminum hydroxy sulfate (PAHS). The process by which it is made is discussed, along with how it performs in several case studies, and the logistics and advantages of producing PAHS.
Air Stripping Alleviates MTBE Problem in Small Kansas Community
Authors: Reetz Bill , Hofmeister Craig R.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's experience using air stripping to remove methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) from two wells in a small Kansas town in the late 1990s. The source of the contamination was determined, an action plan was initiated, construction details are given, and several important lessons were learned from the experience. Those lessons included the fact that several entities could effectively work together, good communication among all parties resulted in reduced installation costs, and the strength of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's trust fund was proven by covering all associated costs.
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Authors: Joslyn Bari , Gaddis Larry
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how the proximity of a treatment plant to an elementary school, response problems identified during a disaster drill, and the safety of customers prompted the Northern Kentucky Water District (District) to change its disinfection chemical from chlorine gas to its liquid alternative, sodium hypochlorite. Although the conversion process wasn't easy, the District's ultimate goal of a safer system was achieved.
A Self‐Guided Way to Improve Water Quality
Authors: McEncroe John
Published: June 2018

This article describes the Partnership for Safe Water program, a voluntary cooperative effort between the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), AWWA, and other drinking water organizations to help utilities move beyond the traditional USEPA regulatory model by using a set of self‐imposed, regulation‐exceeding parameters that focus on optimization of pathogen removal. A case study is presented of the city of Golden, Colorado's participation in the Partnership program. The four phases of the program are discussed, along with the overall commitment it requires from the utility's staff.
Small Town Gets Big Technology with Microfiltration
Authors: Townley Chris G. , Oberdorf Amy DeGeer
Published: June 2018

For more than 35 years, the Linwood (Michigan) Metropolitan Water District used diatomaceous earth (DE) filters for water filtration. By the mid‐1990s, these filters no longer adequately provided clean and sufficient drinking water for the utility's 375 customers. Several factors are discussed in this article that Linwood considered before deciding which new treatment would best meet its needs. It was decided to install a new microfiltration plant and the system design and configuration are described, along with the benefits and disadvantages of such a system.
Membrane Technology Treats 21st Century Contaminants
Authors: Pilutti Michael B.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how continuous improvements in membrane technology have resulted in membranes that are cost‐effective to manufacture and operate. Areas of improvement include: fouling resistance; productivity; and, capital and operating costs. The article discusses two categories of membranes, dissolved‐solids‐removal membranes and suspended‐solids‐removal membranes. Within each category, two further classifications of membrane capabilities are outlined: dissolved‐solids‐removal uses reverse osmosis and nanofiltration; and, suspended‐solids‐removal includes ultrafiltration and microfiltration. Four basic configurations of dissolved‐solids‐removal membranes are discussed.
What Technical Assistance Does AWWA Offer for Capacity Development?
Authors: Angers Jim
Published: June 2018

AWWA's Small Systems Policy Committee created a program that would benefit small systems called the Capacity Assistance Program. It consists of performing a self‐assessment to reveal strong points as well as areas that need improvement. A training workshop is then held to train the trainer who visits small utilities to complete a workbook checklist with them. The workbook, which includes everything that was identified and addressed during the assessment, stays with the utility for future reference. The goal of the program is to confirm that the utility is prepared for the future Safe Drinking Water regulations and to supply safe drinking water to its customers.
DPOC Water Distribution Operators Needed for Exam Development
Authors: Jackson Don , De la Cruz Suzanne
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how the Association of Boards of Certification develops certification exams that are used by many water and wastewater operator certification programs throughout the US and Canada. The following major steps in the exam development process are discussed: defining critical job tasks; writing and reviewing questions; and, creating the exam.
First Steps Toward Compliance Under LT1
Authors: Moriarty Edward J.
Published: June 2018

The Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1), which became final on January 14, 2002, increases public health protection by reducing the risk of exposure to microbiological pathogens. Utilities must meet the rule by improving the filtration process and by meeting strengthened turbidity limits. This article explains the deadlines and requirements needed for utilities to comply with LT1.
Law Enforcement Needs Quick Access
Authors: Chronister Tom
Published: June 2018

This article discusses access control systems that are being established to protect utilities in response to the new Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act. The article points out that while these security systems do a great job of keeping out threats that jeopardize the integrity of a local water supply, they also hinder access for the first responders whose job is to counter the very threats that imperil a facility's life‐sustaining infrastructure. The article lists eight basic methodologies for gaining entry to gated areas.
Automated Meter Reading: WASA Increases Efficiency, Revenues, and Customer Satisfaction
Authors: Bender Paul
Published: June 2018

This article describes an automated meter reading (AMR) and meter replacement project that was initiated by the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (WASA) in response to several major customer service and financial issues stemming from the district's aging metering system. A fixed network radio system using existing cellular telephone networks was selected. It uses low‐wattage, radio transmitting devices that are attached to each meter. The article discusses the process by which this system was selected, how the system operates, and its value‐added services.
Keeping the Pressure On at WaterOne
Authors: Schrempp Tom , Corkill Paul , Horsley Mike
Published: June 2018

WaterOne, the abbreviated name for Water District No. 1 in Johnson County, Kansas, experienced fast and steady growth since its inception in 1957 that lead to increased demands on supply and major changes in service, including one related to water storage. This article describes how the district switched from elevated storage to pumped below ground storage to meet maximum hour demands on the system.
Distribution Systems: Consider Water Quality and Hydraulic Quality
Authors: Hiltebrand David J. , Theiss Richard J.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the benefits of a flushing program to the water quality in a distribution system and compares and contrasts conventional flushing with unidirectional flushing. Also, several additional issues are discussed relating to water quality that include: coordinating unaffiliated groups when they perform activities affecting the distribution system such as the fire department and public works department; deteriorating water quality and biological growth in tanks or reservoirs where the level remains constant; maintaining water quality in systems with extensive uncoated iron pipe with effective corrosion control; and, reducing the number of artificial dead‐ends and minimizing the problems associated with broken valves during a flushing campaign with a regular valve exercise program.
How Can We Prevent Frozen Pipes?
Authors: Angers Jim
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks how to prevent pipes from freezing in cold weather. Tips on initially installing the pipe are given, including burying the pipe below the frost line, or if the utility is in an extremely cold environment, encasing or insulating service lines to prevent freezing. Also, sections of the distribution system and some service lines are continuously circulated to prevent freezing; however, this practice may require installation of interior isolation assemblies to prevent cross contamination inside the building and backflow‐prevention devices to stop contaminants reaching the water distribution main. A written plan that clearly states where the utility responsibility begins and ends is recommended.
Do Electromagnetic Devices Work on Calcium Salts?
Authors: DeBoer Jon
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns using magnetic or electromagnetic units to control calcium salts in drinking water, which is related to controlling copper corrosion by raising the pH. The article states that there is no scientific evidence that magnetic/electromagnetic devices consistently work, and that treating soft, low‐alkalinity waters with lime and carbon dioxide, forming calcium bicarbonate, substantially reduces copper corrosion problems. The article also suggests using orthophosphates.
Find BIG Water Savings in Nonresidential Sector
Authors: DeNileon Gay Porter
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the challenge of convincing industrial, commercial, and institutional water users, among the nation's largest nonresidential consumers of water, to cut back on water use. The article explains that the acronym BIG, which stands for business, industry, and government, is commonly assigned to this water use sector. Elements common to various conservation programs are discussed and inlcude: education and awareness; water audits; leak detection and repair; curtailing use; equipment change‐out; and, monitoring.
Understanding the IDSE Requirements
Authors: Smith Charlotte
Published: June 2018

“This article discusses initial distribution system evaluations (IDSEs), studies intended to select new compliance monitoring sites that more accurately reflect sites representing high total trihalomethane and haloacetic acid levels in relation to compliance with the Stage 2 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule.”
A Pay Plan to Pick Up Productivity
Authors: Lennox Brenda
Published: June 2018

This article describes how many companies experience the hard truth that when staff morale plummets, so does productivity. The Tualatin Valley Water District, Oregon's second‐largest water utility, experienced this situation with its meter‐reading staff when the service area expanded. As employees felt increasingly overworked and became more susceptible to injuries and mistakes, management recognized the need for reading meters more efficiently while improving staff morale. An incentive plan was implemented and meter reading was separated from other customer service duties, which increased productivity by 17%. Also, the plan implemented a flat fee of $0.07 per read over the 400 minimum standard and changed the pay period for incentive bonuses to monthly rather than quarterly.
Boring a Hot Trend with Ductile‐Iron
Authors: Carnes Kathleen , Singh Raj , Carpenter Ralph
Published: June 2018

This article reports that the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) has found success using conventional bell‐spigot and “bell‐less” ductile‐iron pipe joints for installation by trenchless methods. Due to a proactive pipeline renewal and replacement program, OUC has investigated various trenchless methods to install new transmission and distribution lines, as well as rehabilitate existing lines. The article discusses bore‐and‐jack, horizontal directional drilling, and microtunneling.
Interpreting Distribution System Water Quality
Authors: Leland Dave
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how basic water quality monitoring by a small water system can help prevent contamination in the distribution system and reduce the risk of waterborne disease. Factors discussed in the article affecting water quality include microbial contaminants, chlorine residuals, compromising conditions, corrosion products, and disinfection byproducts.