bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing effluent limitations for hardness‐based metals considering dynamic variability of effluent and receiving water hardness
Authors: Laputz Adam , Saiz Steve
Published: February 2018

Effluent hardness and flow data from two publicly owned treatment plants were superimposed onto 15 receiving water data sets to investigate the effect of hardness variability on implementation of the US Environmental Protection Agency—s (2000) hardness‐dependent water quality criteria (e.g., metals). A mass balance model was used to compute metals water quality criteria for the hardness variability in effluent and receiving water mixtures. Random subsets of the observations were used to estimate the sample size required to develop protective metals criteria and effluent limitations. For the 30 effluent and receiving water scenarios, protective chronic cadmium, copper, chromium, nickel, and zinc limitations can be developed using the minimum observed effluent hardness value; however, large hardness sample sizes (n > 24) were required in many cases. More sophisticated methods and comprehensive data sets are required to develop protective lead and silver limitations, although some simplified relationships are described. Criteria developed using the mass balance model are compared with criteria developed using methods proposed by Emerick et al (2006).
Total Coliform Rule Brain Teaser
Authors: Messner Mike , Bauer Jeremy
Published: February 2018

This brain teaser deals with a hypothetical situation where a small public water system (one that is normally required to only assay one routine total coliform sample during a month) will have to assay five samples in one month's time. The five samples can be either one routine and four repeat samples or five routine samples and no repeats. Two possibilities for this situation occuring are presented, and the reader is challenged to find an explanation for this. The answer is provided, turned upside down at the bottom of the same page.
Health Advisories Issued for PFOA and PFOS
Authors: Pontius Fred
Published: February 2018

In 2004, a class‐action settlement was reached by DuPont Chemical with local residents living near DuPont's Washington Works facility south of Parkersburg, West Virginia. The residents alleged that the company had contaminated their drinking water supplies with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) for decades. As part of the court settlement, a multiyear effort was launched to assess PFOA's potential health effects, known as the C8 Health Project. In 2008, three status reports were issued (C8 Science Panel, 2008a; 2008b; 2008c) presenting preliminary results suggesting possible links between disease in the community and exposure to PFOA. A fourth status report was issued in January 2009 (C8 Science Panel, 2009). This article discusses the results of these reports, specifically focusing on PFOA in sewage sludge, toxicity data for PFOA, toxicity data for perfluoroctanesulfonte (PFOS), derivation of provisional health advisories, and future regulation.
Innovation and Energy Savings Prove a Great Idea for Oxnard Desalting Facility
Authors: Frenkel Val S. , Reynolds Todd K.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the Groundwater Recovery and Treatment (GREAT) program used by the city of Oxnard, California to manage community water resources as an integrated, fully functioning regional water supply system. The concept behind the program was to reduce the need for imported water by creating facilities that can use local brackish groundwater resources, and thus reduce dependence on costly imported water supplies. The GREAT program links all the water resources in the Oxnard Plain – including imported water, local groundwater, wastewater, recycled water, and brine wastes – and delineates how each resource can be used for maximum benefit to the Oxnard area. Under the program, highly treated recycled water will be delivered to agricultural and industrial customers currently using groundwater for nonpotable purposes. In winter, when irrigation needs are low, recycled water will be used to recharge groundwater aquifers and help prevent saltwater intrusion in coastal wells. Desalination of brackish groundwater will allow the city to continue providing high‐quality drinking water while reducing reliance on imported water. The article discusses the advanced energy‐efficient treatment technology used by the Oxnard desalination plant that eliminates inefficient series pumping, reduces the size of the building required, and removes the need for noise reduction in the facility. Additionally, the design of each of the three Oxnard reverse osmosis (RO) units incorporated an interstage boost/energy‐recovery turbine. The design of the Oxnard facility incorporates principles and elements of the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Initiative, and the facility's numerous green building elements are listed.
Looking Beyond the Beltway
Authors: Blette Veronica
Published: February 2018

The focus of this article is on efforts outside of our nation's capital to support the water community to continue to carry out programs and activities needed to ensure the safety of the nation's drinking water. The article highlights the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA's) 10 regional offices located throughout the country that serve as a critical bridge between headquarters and staff in the states, developing regulations, providing assistance on implementation, and overseeing state programs. They also carry out initiatives that reflect the concerns of their geographic regions. A second support system is found in state drinking water programs, and the article discusses how the USEPA delegates primary enforcement responsibility to states to work directly with public water systems.
A Water Supply Crisis or a Water Management Crisis?
Authors:   Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the distinction between lack of water supply and inefficient water management. It states that it is all too often assumed that there is not adequate water supply because shortages develop under status quo water management strategies, when new approaches could result in a more efficient allocation of water resources. The article provides an example of questionably sustainable water supply practices currently in use that will require significant management improvements in the future to remain sustainable. The article lists considerations that share a common basis in institutional legal policies for water resource allocation, and discusses the fact that effective and efficient water management should combine public interest regulation with clearly defined rights to use water resources.
Minimizing financial risk in today's turbulent economy
Authors: Matichich Mike
Published: February 2018

These days, utility managers face tougher financial decisions than ever. Faced with the need to move forward with capital programs in a period where revenues are less certain because of reduced development and declining use by customers, utility managers can turn to proactive financial management to identify a sound financial path forward. Using the strategies of enhanced prioritization, strategic financial planning, cost of service and rate studies, optimization of operation and maintenance expenses, and exploring outside funding, managers can reduce their financial uncertainties and manage risk. This article helps utility managers figure out what their most critical activities are and presents strategies that help identify reliable funding streams so those endeavors can proceed. In this article utility managers will find help coping with the more complex financial climate most find themselves in as well as case studies that show the benefits of the strategies that are presented.
Water conservation made legal: Water budgets and California law
Authors: Hildebrand Mark , Gaur Sanjay , Salt Kelly J.
Published: February 2018

California is among the most progressive states regarding cost‐of‐service requirements for water rates. With the increasing need for water conservation, and increasing popularity of water budget rate structures, recent changes to California laws should be of interest to water utility managers. Water rates are regulated at the state level. The evolution of these regulations in California created a situation in which utility managers were not certain if conservation‐oriented rate structures would be upheld in court. The recent passage of Assembly Bill 2882 has lifted this uncertainty and set a precedent for other states. The growing popularity of water budget rate structures may accelerate even more now that they have been validated by California lawmakers. Allocation‐based inclining‐block rates were until recently infeasible because of the data management and lack of political will. The tide has changed in favor of such rates with the development of new information management tools, the public awareness of on‐going water resource issues, and the green light from lawmakers.
NOM coprecipitation with solids formed during softening
Authors: Russell Caroline G. , Lawler Desmond F. , Speitel Gerald E.
Published: February 2018

The effect of precipitate characteristics on natural organic matter (NOM) removal during softening was evaluated by conducting jar tests with synthetic organic water under varying conditions—calcium only, magnesium only, and calcium plus magnesium—using humic substances extracted from Lake Austin, Texas. Results from these experiments showed that both calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and magnesium hydroxide [Mg(OH)2] adsorbed NOM during precipitation. Each solid was capable of achieving the same maximum percent removal under the conditions evaluated; however, a greater mass of CaCO3 was required to achieve the same degree of NOM removal. These research results have important implications for softening plants. First, such plants may be able to increase NOM removal by operating at a slightly higher lime dose, maintaining a minimum calcium concentration but avoiding Mg(OH)2 precipitation. Second, an increase in NOM removal with increasing initial magnesium concentration was attributed to the formation of Mg‐CaCO3 and suggests that some softening plants may be able to enhance NOM removal by adding magnesium. Third, results supported findings by other researchers that soda ash is detrimental to NOM removal and should be added to the second stage of a two‐stage softening process if NOM removal is to be maximized.
Will CERCLA Allow Water Entities to Recover Response Costs From Pharmaceutical Companies?
Authors:   Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Published: February 2018

Public concern over the effects of prescription medications on the country's potable water system has grown in recent years. As the debate over the impact of pharmaceuticals continues, the Supreme Court of the United States is considering a case that could allow water entities, water rights holders, or states to recover “response costs” from the suppliers of pharmaceuticals under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq. (CERCLA). The Court heard oral arguments in the case, Shell Oil Co. v. United States (Case No. 07‐1607), which were heard in conjunction with Burlington Northern & Santa Fe Railway Co. v. United States (Case No. 07‐1601), at the end of February 2009. Although the primary issue in the Shell case is the apportionment of liability for contamination caused by a soil fumigant, also at issue is the “useful product” defense. This defense has been used by defendants in CERCLA actions to avoid liability when a manufactured product is eventually disposed of following use. A decision by the Court to limit the availability of the useful product defense could leave pharmaceutical companies more susceptible to liability for contamination to water supplies caused by prescription drugs.
ARRA Boosts State Revolving Loan Funding
Authors: Pontius Fred
Published: February 2018

This article announces that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, enacted February 17, 2009, provides more than $7 billion for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) programs. Funding provided includes $600 million for Superfund, $4 billion for USEPA's clean water revolving‐loan fund, $2 billion for the drinking water revolving‐loan fund, $100 million for the Brownfields Program, and $300 million for the diesel‐retrofit program. USEPA has issued guidance on the distribution and use of ARRA funds (USEPA, 2009a). The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has released interim final guidance (OMB, 2009) with public comments due no later than June 22, 2009. The article discusses state applications, Intended Use Plan (IUP) requirements, green projects, additional subsidization, award requirements, buy American provisions, prohibited uses of ARRA funds, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews, and how to apply for receiving assistance.
Legionella control by chlorine dioxide in hospital water systems
Authors: Zhang Zhe , McCann (Deceased) Carole , Hanrahan Jennifer , Jencson Annette , Joyce Daniel , Fyffe Steven , Piesczynski Steve , Hawks Robert , Stout Janet E. , Yu Victor L. , Vidic Radisav D.
Published: February 2018

This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of chlorine dioxide (ClO2) fed into the incoming main water line to control Legionella bacteria in two hospital water systems. In both hospitals A and B, positivity of all distal outlets (sinks and showers) for Legionella decreased from 60% to ≤ 10% after the ClO2 treatment. In hospital B, the heterotrophic plate count bacteria in hot water were reduced from 15,400 cfu/mL to 2,900 cfu/mL after ClO2 treatment. Mean concentrations of ClO2 and chlorite (ClO2 ‐) in cold and hot water did not exceed the maximum residual disinfection level of 0.8 mg/L and the maximum contaminant level of 1.0 mg/L, respectively. No cases of healthcare acquired legionellosis have been identified in the postdisinfection period in these two hospitals. The study indicates that ClO2 is a promising disinfectant for controlling not only Legionella, but also other microorganisms in drinking water
The Big Gulp: The Future of Groundwater Storage in the Los Angeles Coastal Plain
Authors:   Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Published: February 2018

This article discusses an agreement referred to as the “Big Gulp” that was recently developed by California's state and local water agencies, public and private water purveyors, and local cities to create a framework for underground water storage and recapture in the previously unused empty aquifer space of the Central and West Coast groundwater aquifer basins. To meet the challenges posed by the current drought in California, the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) recommends that local groundwater agencies engage in conjunctive‐use projects, including the management and use of available aquifer space for artificial recharge. The Big Gulp would establish 450,000 acre‐ft of available dewatered space for active conjunctive use, and would create a governance structure to promote use of the basins’ storage space dedicated to the principles of local control, stakeholder participation, and transparent administration.
Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding Proposed
Authors: Pontius Fred
Published: February 2018

On April 24, 2009, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) proposed to find that greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere endanger the public health and welfare of current and future generations. Section 202 of the Clean Air Act (CAA) sets motor vehicle emissions and fuel standards. This article discusses how a positive finding for endangerment to human health and/or welfare from GHGs would trigger first‐time rules to limit the pollutants from mobile as well as stationary sources. The finding is specific to six GHGs: carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride. The USEPA is also proposing to find that the combined emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and hydrofluorocarbons from new motor vehicles and new motor vehicle engines are contributing to GHGs in the atmosphere.
Water supply: Is it still a local decision?
Authors: Wortzel Andrea West
Published: February 2018

The US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) is becoming increasingly involved in water supply planning decisions. The Water Supply Act of 1958 authorizes the COE to partner with state and local entities to provide a water supply source in connection with its primary responsibilities of construction, operation, and modification of federal navigation projects as well as flood damage reduction. Water shortages in recent years have increased the demand for water from COE reservoirs, pushing the COE's secondary role of water supplier to the forefront. The author examines the Georgia‐Florida‐ Alabama conflict over the COE's water allocation, and how the effects of water supply decisions can range beyond the local, or even regional, planning level. The author concludes that by becoming more aware of the scope of the COE's authority, water suppliers can make educated decisions about whether to involve the COE in local water supply planning efforts.
Designing pretreatment to control arsenic leaching in ASR facilities
Authors: Bell Katherine Y. , Lee Wiseman , Turner Leslie A.
Published: February 2018

Aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) has become a major component in numerous water supply initiatives, particularly in Florida. Despite the recent focus and reliance on ASR, challenges remain because of undesirable water chemistry changes in the storage zone aquifer, specifically, arsenic dissolution and subsequent detection in recovered water above the drinking water standard of 10 μg/L. The purpose of this study was to select engineering design parameters for log removal of dissolved oxygen for a degasification pretreatment system that would minimize the leaching potential of aquifer materials at an ASR project sited in the Upper Floridan aquifer. The basis of selection of design criteria was from results of a simple geochemical model used to evaluate geochemical conditions resulting from injection of treated recharge water. The final pretreatment system design was to include provisions for 2‐log removal of dissolved oxygen from recharge water.
Going Green While Saving Money
Authors: Fleming Jason
Published: February 2018

“Going green” has become an important initiative for many organizations over the past several years. This has been the result of increased awareness of the effect that our organizations can have on the environment, as well as increased pressure that customers put on suppliers to produce products and services in an environmentally conscious manner. Although efforts to reduce carbon footprints and protect the environment are popular, they can sometimes meet resistance when it comes time to budget and green projects that can show a reduction to the bottom line are much more likely to move forward. Young professionals can take a leadership role in identifying, evaluating, and presenting some of these opportunities to their organizations. This article presents a case summary at the Greater Cincinnati (Ohio) Water Works (GCWW) that can be used as a starting point to begin the process. GCWW recently evaluated its many programs and projects for reducing energy consumption, including deenergizing excess transformer capacity, removal of isolation transformers, LED lighting for elevated tanks, and facility lighting upgrades. The article also discusses managing energy use by coordination between the water utilities and the energy utilities of a community, and the recovery of energy for the purpose of offsetting the need to purchase power at a utility.
Long‐term effects of orthophosphate treatment on copper concentration
Authors: Schock Michael R. , Sandvig Anne M.
Published: February 2018

In laboratory, pilot, and Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) monitoring studies of copper solubility, cupric hydroxide or a highly microcrystalline tenorite appears to be the dominant solid phase, supporting the theoretical cupric hydroxide copper solubility model. This model predicts that as pipe ages, tenorite or malachite will form and predominate as the surface phase, lowering copper levels. Orthophosphate treatment initially may lower copper levels and yield temporally stable copper concentrations instead of displaying this aging phenomenon. Given enough time (i.e., years to decades), systems without orthophosphate likely will experience copper concentrations lower than what would be achieved with orthophosphate. Because LCR‐compliance monitoring structure is intentionally biased toward sites that may exhibit elevated lead rather than elevated copper, water utilities should be aware that copper concentrations above the action level and several times the 90th percentile value can be prevalent in parts of their distribution systems. To achieve maximum health protection and strict regulatory compliance, systems with higher percentages of newer construction with copper water lines may need to consider the tradeoffs between pH and/or alkalinity adjustment and orthophosphate addition for their optimal corrosion‐control treatment strategy.
Nonleaded brass—A summary of performance and costs
Authors: Sandvig Anne M. , Triantafyllidou Simoni , Edwards Marc , Heumann David , Boyd Glen , Kirmeyer Gregory
Published: February 2018

The increasing demand to remove all lead from potable water distribution systems has driven the development of nonleaded brass alloys. Three families of nonleaded brasses that contain < 0.25% lead by weight and have adequate mechanical properties, are now available for drinking water systems. Limited metals‐release studies indicate that the nonleaded alloys contribute much lower levels of lead to water than do leaded brasses under comparable conditions. Although concerns remain about possible failure from dezincification and stress cracking, utilities that have installed nonleaded components do not report compromised performance. Although individual nonleaded components may be more expensive than their leaded counterparts, the increase in overall replacement costs is minimal (i.e., 2‐5%) when taking labor, equipment, and other expenses into account.
S. 787: Extending CWA Jurisdiction Too Far?
Authors: Pontius Fred
Published: February 2018

This article discusses U.S. Senate bill S. 787, The Clean Water Restoration Act. The stated intent of this bill is to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, commonly known as the Clean Water Act (CWA), to clarify the jurisdiction of the U.S. government over waters of the United States. The article focuses on the expansion of federal government power by this bill to regulate all interstate and intrastate waters and their tributaries. The article provides the conclusions of the Supreme Court Justices on similar cases that questioned the federal jurisdiction over interstate and intrastate waters. The Supreme Court's ruling on these cases was that “navigable waters” only applies to large, continuously flowing bodies of water.
Building and recruiting qualified candidates for water industry jobs
Authors: Davis Cheryl , Bailey Susan , Day‐Burget Jennifer , Sinclair Amy Kiernan , Shan Anup , Curtis Catherine
Published: February 2018

The water industry is increasingly aware of the need to draw new talent into mission‐critical jobs, especially as Baby Boomers retire. At the same time, public expectations regarding water quality, environmental stewardship, and security continue to escalate. It is critical that utilities use Web 2.0, the new generation of information technology, to promote workforce development and to recruit today's and tomorrow's job candidates. This article presents specific examples of how water agencies and organizations are using new tools and technologies on their websites and social media networks (e.g., Facebook and Twitter) to describe available jobs, their benefits, and the education and skills necessary to obtain them; to market themselves as desirable employers and proactively reach out to potentially desirable candidates; and, to perform quality control and get feedback on their recruitment and selection processes. The authors also encourage collaboration at the regional and national levels to facilitate these efforts.
Eight Habits of the Heart: Values that Build Strong Communities—and Strong Organizations
Authors: Wodrich Victoria
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a memoir by Clifton Taulbert called “Eight Habits of the Heart: Embracing the Values That Build Strong Communities.” These eight habits can be used by organizations to improve the working relationships of their employees and, in turn, their accomplishments. The article lists them along with an explanation of each and an example of how it can be used in the workplace.
It All Begins at the Source
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Source water once again ranked among the top five issues of concern identified by utilities in the 2009 State of the Industry Report (to be published in October). Hit by both demand increases and drought, source water concerns are strongest in the majority of states west of the Mississippi as well as in Alaska, British Columbia, western Canada, Hawaii, Mexico, and Michigan. With mounting stresses being placed on source water (e.g., rapidly multiplying demands, drought, climate change), it is becoming increasingly important to protect existing treatable sources.
Clean Water Act Jurisdiction: The Saga Continues
Authors:   Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Published: February 2018

This article reviews the current state of recent Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisprudence and the U.S. Senate's efforts to change the law. The article also raises a variety of issues that if left unaddressed by the Senate legislation, may have dire consequences for efforts to protect the nation's waters.
Critical Operations Power Systems
Authors: Myres Glenn , Moyer Jack
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the landmark Article 708, Critical Operations Power Systems, that is part of the 2008 National Electrical Code (NEC). It addresses new or significantly upgraded electrical systems for all critical infrastructure ‐ including water and wastewater facilities. The article discusses two key definitions of terminology found in Article 708: Critical Operations Power System (COPS); and, Designated Critical Operations Area (DCOA). It goes on to discuss specific requirements the facility must meet after being classified as a DCOA.
Improving Public Health Protection
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Chloramines are important weapons in the battle to maintain and improve water quality in the distribution system. Each new study of disinfection practices yields tweaks that not only increase our current understanding of this process but improve the protection of public health.
Trekking Uncharted Territory
Authors: Lacey Marcia
Published: February 2018

Advances in technologies and techniques often provide us with information before we're quite sure what we can ‐ or should ‐ do with it. This month's articles examine a number of emerging issues ‐ ranging from chloramine decay to microbial threats to sustainability ‐ and the ways in which the water industry is responding to them.
USEPA Reconsiders Bush‐era Water Transfer Rule
Authors:   Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA's) controversial 2008 Water Transfer Rule. This Bush‐era rule exempts water transfers from National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements under section 402 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), which bans the discharge of any pollutant from a point source without a permit (USEPA, 2008). Water agencies and the water industry generally support this rule, arguing that water transfers do not “add” pollution to water. Environmental groups counter that the CWA requires NPDES permits for water transfers because the transfers are otherwise adding polluted water to cleaner public lakes and streams and, in so doing, threatening drinking water supplies. The article presents the 2009 case, Friends of the Everglades v. South Florida Water Management District (2009) 570 F.3d 1210, as the first ruling of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit to uphold USEPA's Water Transfer Rule. In response, the environmental group plaintiffs filed a petition asking the Eleventh Circuit to hold an en banc review of this case. On Oct. 13, 2009, the Department of Justice (DOJ), on behalf of USEPA, responded to the petition by rejecting the plaintiffs’ legal arguments and noting that the court was correct in granting the federal government deference to regulate, or refrain from regulating, water transfers (DOJ's Oct. 13, 2009 Response to Petition for Rehearing en banc). However, the DOJ included the caveat that USEPA “intends to reconsider” its existing regulatory exemption for water transfers (Id.).
Benchmarking Revisited: The Global Search for Performance Improvement
Authors: Cabrera Enrique , Dane Peter , Haskins Scott , Theuretzbacher‐Fritz Heimo
Published: February 2018

This article provides a brief overview of the development of benchmarking in the water industry, from early efforts published by Harvard University, to Xerox Corporation's input on benchmarking practices along with that of the Office of Water Services (OFWAT) in the United Kingdom. Confusion in the industry over terminology and inconsistencies in benchmarking concepts was heightened by a 1996 report on benchmarking by the Awwa Research Foundation (now known as the Water Research Foundation). The article stresses the need for clear terms and a common language and understanding of benchmarking in the water industry as the importance of benchmarking grows, and discusses the confusion over the terms “metric benchmarking” and “process benchmarking”. A new manual on best practices of benchmarking will be jointly published by the IWA and AWWA, with the objective of defining a new framework in which the traditional benchmarking concepts can be clearly distinguished, thus guaranteeing more fluent and efficient communication.
Conjunctive use in India's Varada River Basin
Authors: Ramesh Honnasiddaiah , Mahesha Amai
Published: February 2018

The use of groundwater in conjunction with surface water resources has gained prominence in regions experiencing scarce or uneven distribution of water. In the Varada River Basin in Karnataka, India, for example, an optimization model was developed for the conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater resources because of the increasing demand on agricultural and domestic sectors of this area—s water supply. Monsoon rains, which occur only six months a year, predominantly control the basin—s agricultural activities. However, the area has an immense need for efficient use of available water resources during the rest of the year. The model, based on linear programming, optimizes the allocation of groundwater and surface water subject to hydraulic and stream flow constraints. The model incorporates policy scenarios that add to the sustainability of the system. The developed conjunctive‐use model is simple but effective in computing the optimal use of the Varada basin—s water resources.
Workforce Strategies Committee to Address Three Key Initiatives by 2012
Authors: Schneider Sue G.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses key initiatives and items of business of the AWWA Workforce Strategies Committee for the 2009‐2012 Workforce Programs Business Plan that include: defining a system for developing and sharing content among utilities and sections so that AWWA's workforce‐related website allows for the exchange of best practices and social networking around workforce issues; supporting completion of the Department of Labor (DOL) Water Sector Competency Model by defining competencies for four water sector workforce job areas, a career clusters map, topics for a website map for a career awareness website open to the public, topics for a website map for a careers section for youth, parents, and educators, and creating water education lesson plans for teachers; and, developing career paths based on the four priority job categories from the competency model, showing the progression from entry‐level to senior‐level positions. Other items of business that the committee is addressing are: planning a workshop for the AWWA/WEF Utility Management Conference in San Francisco, California, in February 2010; linking veterans to water sector careers; a quantitative assessment of workforce needs; and, the Workforce Strategies Committee Facebook page.
Climate‐Ready Water Utilities Among New USEPA Goals
Authors: Silva Peter
Published: February 2018

This article discusses four priorities of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's drinking water program: safeguarding public health from water contamination by implementing existing regulations, considering new ones that may be needed, and protecting our water sources; supporting sustainable drinking water systems and infrastructure; mitigating and adapting to climate change through safe carbon capture and storage, improving water and energy efficiency, and preparing utilities to meet the challenges ahead; and, ensuring the safety of water supplies from threats to security.
Western Legal Cases Address Water Deliveries and Groundwater Export: FARMERS SUE UNITED STATES SEEKING ADDITIONAL WATER DELIVERIES
Authors:   Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Published: February 2018

Farmers in California's Central Valley have sued the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) in order to require BOR to deliver more water to them. The suit will force a court to determine whether laws regarding Reclamation Act projects trump the requirements of the later‐enacted Endangered Species Act.
Using IT, Part 3: Optimize the use of available staffing
Authors: Davis Cheryl K. , Peters Sharon , Smith James F. , De Sa Joanna
Published: February 2018

To successfully prepare for the significant upcoming changes in the workforce, utility managers need to focus not only on incoming candidates but the work itself. This time of transition represents an opportunity to rethink and redesign work processes in ways that make processes more efficient and that are compatible with the skills and expectations of incoming workers. This article provides examples of ways in which managers can use information technology (IT) to improve processes such as: use of IT for increased productivity in the field; broadened access to operations information; use of analytical reports to support operational planning and monitoring; and, increased automation of processes. The authors point out that implementing these technologies successfully requires significant up‐front work in analysis and documentation. Additionally, such business process changes may affect skill requirements, job classifications, divisions of labor, and the way work is organized. This aspect of implementation must be thought through and addressed in order to implement such projects successfully. Utility managers should realize that part of the solution to addressing the upcoming workforce development challenges associated with retirement of Baby Boomers is to modify the work itself.
Incorporation of research plan results into regulatory policy
Authors: Seidel Chad , Roberson J. Alan , Summers R. Scott , Zearley Tom , Tang George
Published: February 2018

Because research can be an important element in the development of national drinking water regulations, research planning is essential to ensure timely and efficient regulatory development activities. Several research approaches have supported rulemaking, including research councils, research partnerships, congressional earmarks, regulated occurrence data research, and utility survey approaches. Although research plans have been specifically developed and executed to support regulatory development, the extent to which plan results and objectives have been incorporated into final rules has not been analyzed. The authors conducted retrospective analyses on the use of research results and objectives in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's regulatory development processes. Study findings led to two recommendations for research plans in support of future rule development. First, research plan tasks should focus on rule development needs; and second, research plan tasks should be constrained by available funding and timing. These suggestions will help future research planners prioritize research tasks and allocate resources more effectively to meet rule development objectives.
Effect of shading on performance of slow sand filters
Authors: Kelkar Prakash S. , Tajne Devrao S. , Dhage Shivani S.
Published: February 2018

This research investigated the effect of shading on three slow sand filters, each 1.65 m in diameter. One filter (designated “sun”) served as the control and was open to the sun and sky, the second filter (designated “shaded”) was partly shaded to exclude direct sunlight, and the third (designated “covered”) was completely shaded. All three filters were operated at filtration rates of 0.1 and 0.2 m/h using the same influent raw water. Research was conducted in the summer season when algal activity is at its peak. The performance of the filters was assessed on the basis of filtrate quality and length of filter run. Statistical evaluation of the physicochemical quality of filtrate was performed. Quantitative estimation was made of phytoplankton and zooplankton in the raw and filtered waters. Results indicated that in a tropical country, shading of slow sand filters may help reduce the algal activity in the filters without materially affecting the filter performance.
Western Legal Cases Address Water Deliveries and Groundwater Export: NEVADA COURT STRIKES DOWN LAS VEGAS GROUNDWATER EXPORT APPROVALS
Authors:   Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Published: February 2018

The Seventh Judicial District Court of Nevada recently struck down the Nevada State Engineer's approval of the Southern Nevada Water Authority's (SNWA) permits allowing the importation of groundwater from the Cave, Dry Lake, and Delamar valleys in eastern Nevada. In July 2008, the state engineer issued Ruling 5875, which approved SNWA's right to pipe up to 18,755 acre‐ft to Las Vegas from the three valleys each year. The court based the ruling on its finding that the state engineer had not held SNWA to the same requirements to demonstrate the effects of the proposed exports to which it had held prior applicants.
Going “All In” on All Hazards
Authors: Spence Shannon , McLaughlin John W.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a new methodology, the “all‐hazards” approach, for securing critical utility infrastructure. This method of holistic risk mitigation covers the security of a utility where operational and physical improvements are aimed at providing multiple benefits to the utility. In such a philosophy, response, recovery, and resilience become the major goals, and the cause of the event becomes less important than the effect on the utility. The article discusses efforts at both the state and federal levels that will place increased security requirements and regulations on overall utility operations and management, including: Mutual Aid Disaster Intervention Response Teams (MADIRT); Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (WARN); Risk Analysis and Management for Critical Asset Protection (RAM‐CAP?); U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Chemical Facility Anti‐Terrorism Standards (CFATS); and, AWWA's G430, Standard for Security Practices for Operation and Management.
Improvement through performance measurement
Authors: Walch Marc P. , Immann Rishi , Garrison Seth W. , Torbert Jacqueline
Published: February 2018

Strategic tools to support the most effective and efficient use of a utility's resources have become critically important to a utility's planning process. Using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's capacity, management, operations, and maintenance program (CMOM) as a guide, the water division of the Orange County Utilities Department in Orlando, Florida, developed a performance management plan to address the challenges of a rapidly growing population and stretched water resources. Originally developed for wastewater utilities, CMOM addresses all aspects of the Orange County Utilities organization, with specific focuses on water utility management and operations, financial considerations, water treatment maintenance issues, public health protection, regulatory compliance, and safety. The Water CMOM program showed the gaps in the utility's organization, provided a method to prioritize and implement gap closure projects, and aligned the final recommendations of the assessment with the utility's goals and mission statement. The program created a repeatable process that can measure how the utility is performing, re‐analyze the utility periodically, show gaps in performance, develop plans to close those gaps, and remeasure the utility using performance indicators and industry‐accepted metrics.
Linking asset management with sustainability: Views from the Australian sector
Authors: Marlow David , Beale David , Burn Stewart
Published: February 2018

This article provides insights into the way the Australian water sector is trying to link the concepts of asset management and sustainability, and where there are remaining challenges. Australia's water sector has made a strong commitment to broadening the focus of asset management to take into account sustainability principles. There are, however, a range of challenges to be met if this aspiration is to be turned into a reality. This research was undertaken to determine the level of progress that has been made and to identify remaining challenges with the explicit aim of identifying where research can be undertaken to help and what issues water utilities need to address. Integrating sustainability principles into asset management will expand the focus of decision‐making and require consideration of broader social and environmental issues in all aspects of a water business. This change is necessary if the water sector is to contribute to the sustainability objectives of the larger society.
If You Have It, You Can Build: Update on Assured Water Supply Laws in the Western United States
Authors: Davis Courtney , Leishman Todd
Published: February 2018

In August 2008, this column highlighted assured water supply laws in Arizona, California, and Colorado. This article is intended to provide updated information on California's assured water supply laws and also to discuss similar laws in Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington.
Conservation: A way of life in San Diego County
Authors: Rose Bill , Katz Sara
Published: February 2018

This article discusses San Diego County Water Authority's (SDCWA) Water Conservation Summits. Starting in 2006, San Diego County water agencies came together with land‐use planning agencies, businesses that design, build, supply, and maintain urban landscapes, and interested individuals to explore ways to increase market supply and demand for water‐efficient landscaping in San Diego County. The event brought into focus a long‐term vision to transform the marketplace and the need to develop new, practical resources to support behavioral changes regarding greater water efficiency by San Diego County's residents and businesses. The article discusses subsequent summits that helped spread expertise and knowledge of best practices for outdoor water irrigation relevant to San Diego County's Mediterranean‐style climate.
Drinking Water Issues Bubbling to the Surface
Authors: Roberson Alan
Published: February 2018

Entering its second year in office, the Obama Administration wants to point to its achievements on several fronts, and environmental issues, particularly drinking water issues, are starting to get more attention.
Innovative Process Saves Energy, Results in Elimination of Sludge
Authors: Voss Klaus W.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses issues with an effluent treatment plant (ETP) located in Kerala, India, and owned by the Indian company named Synthite Industries. Synthite's ETP uses activated sludge technology to treat production effluent, which requires substantial energy for aeration to sustain the microbial population of the system. Effluents received at the ETP vary in color, turbidity, and pH ‐ often several times in a day, and the ETP operators had to track pH values on an hourly basis and make corresponding adjustments to lime dosage. Finally, the use of lime, alum, and polyelectrolyte chemicals at the plant transformed Synthite's sludge from a purely organic waste to a substance designated as a hazardous waste. BiO‐WiSH? technology was selected to reduce operating and environmental costs of the ETP in two stages: reduce aeration and capture energy savings; and, eliminate chemical use. The article discusses the BiO‐WiSH technology that accelerates enzymatic biochemical reactions up to thousands of times faster than their normal rate. The speed of BiOWiSH is the result of a high‐speed enzyme and small‐molecule metabolite co‐factors that have been proven to accelerate the breakdown of all nonliving organic matter into its final inert compounds. Results and key success factors of the process are discussed.
A High‐Volume Sampling Method for Total Coliform and E. Coli
Authors: Hargy Thomas M. , Rosen Jeffrey , Lechevallier Mark , Friedman Melinda , Clancy Jennifer L.
Published: February 2018

To better define the presence of coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli in drinking water distribution systems, a capsule filter sample method was developed for collecting volumes larger than the conventional 100‐mL sample. Bench studies indicated this method was capable of consistent detection of the presence of low concentrations of seeded total coliforms and E. coli in 20‐L sample volumes. Field trials in distribution systems were performed at three utilities. In 252 sample sets, the 20‐L method detected total coliform in 18 samples, but in only two were the corresponding 100‐mL samples total coliform‐positive. E. coli was not detected by either sample method at any location. These results indicate that distribution water quality may be better characterized using this high‐volume method and suggest that the presence of total coliform positives is a function of sample volume rather than an indicator of water quality.
TBAA reduction in reactors simulating distribution system pipes
Authors: Arnold William A. , Hozalski Raymond M. , Pearson Carrie R. , Moore Kirsten
Published: February 2018

To investigate the potential role of abiotic reduction in the loss of disinfection by‐products in distribution systems, the degradation of tribromoacetic acid (TBAA) in pipe reactors made of new and previously in‐service iron pipe was studied. TBAA was degraded in all of the reactors, with dibromoacetic acid, bromoacetic acid, and bromide as the observed products. The observation of these dehalogenation products under oxic conditions—in which oxygen would be preferred over TBAA as a terminal electron acceptor for biological processes—indicates that abiotic reduction by iron minerals at the pipe wall is responsible for the observed debromination reactions. The iron oxides formed in the pipes comprised goethite, lepidocrocite, and magnetite. Results suggest that abiotic reduction of highly reactive disinfection by‐products at the pipe wall is potentially an important loss process in distribution systems.
Historical Water Price Trends
Authors: Maxwell Steve
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how, as conditions of water scarcity and stress continue to develop in more and more regions around the world, water prices will continue to rapidly increase. This discussion presents related trends in Australia and the western United States, and notes that the conditions are in place for this or a similar trend to occur in many other parts of the world. As price rises, there will be more and more incentive for improved utilization of water, increased recycling, and increased reuse of water as well as more focus on wiser allocation of water among competing uses. As water's value is increasingly recognized and as its price continues to increase, water seems likely to evolve into a new financial asset class as well – an increasingly attractive opportunity to invest in.