bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operators Help Out with Construction Inspections
Authors: Russell Jerry S.
Published: June 2018

Operators are largely responsible for running a water treatment plant, and participating in the inspection of construction sites provides a means for education about the workings of the plant. Expanded municipal construction inspections also oversee the production of operations and maintenance manuals, start‐up assistance, and various forms of project documentation. This article describes an experiment with expanded municipal construction inspections at the City of Phoenix, Arizona, Union Hills Water Treatment Plant.
Bearing Driver Takes Top Contest Honors
Authors: Boggs Donald
Published: June 2018

To improve the ease and efficiency of replacing roller bearings, the mechanics at the Orange Water and Sewer Authority, Carrboro, North Carolina, developed the double‐sided bearing driver. The device is a driving shaft with a machined disk head that holds the bearings in place while driving the bearing onto the filter press roller. The disk is then reversed to push the bearings firmly on the roller.
Critical Valve Identified with Floating Rods
Authors: Gehrke Brett
Published: June 2018

The critical valve identifier provides a visual and physical tool for identifying the right valve in emergency situations. The device also helps locate valves used in water storage tanks, treatment plants, and in the distribution system, where main breaks may flood critical areas and obscure valves.
POE/POU Systems Can Mend Minor Maladies
Authors: Yarlott Nelson
Published: June 2018

This question of the month deals with point‐of‐use (POU) or point‐of‐entry (POE) water treatment systems. It discusses the different types of devices available, different treatment processes available, and warns against some “new” technologies that are making big claims but have very little data to support them. Sources for further information are listed.
Treatment Chemicals Contribute to Arsenic Levels
Authors: Weng Cheng‐nan , Smith Darrell B. , Huntley Gary M.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how testing source water alone may not be sufficient to determine the arsenic load in finished water. Some treatment chemicals may also contain trace amounts of arsenic. Methods for computing the trace arsenic concentrations in finished water that are contributed by treatment chemicals are given, along with tables tabulating information produced by several calculations.
Dechlorination Easier, Quicker with Truck Device
Authors: Cory Mike
Published: June 2018

Because of increasing regulatory requirements on discharged water, which requires dechlorination, the Southern California Water Co., Southwest System has experimented with different dechlorination devices through the years. This article describes a new device that shows promising results in reducing the time needed to flush and the labor required for setting up the dechlorination equipment.
New Restrictions Proposed for Chlorine Applications
Authors: Puglionesi Peter S.
Published: June 2018

This article is a discussion of a newly proposed change by the US Environmental Protection Agency that would change chlorine's classification to “restricted,” which would require treatment plants and pool operators using chlorine to have a certified pesticide applicator “present for all operations.”
How Can We Determine How Much Water Was Lost?
Authors: Angers Jim
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns unaccounted‐for water (UFW); specifically, the acceptable percentage for a well‐managed system and a formula for calculating the amount of water lost. The article states that there is no real “standard” percentage for (UFW) but most well‐managed systems consider 10 to 15 percent acceptable. Greeley's Formula is discussed for calculating UFW, which provides an estimated loss by factoring in area, pressure, flow, and time. This formula is specific for flow through short, broken pipes and taps. Sources for more information are given.
A Balancing Act: Distribution Water Quality and Operations
Authors: Burlingame Gary
Published: June 2018

This article describes how the water quality and distribution operations staff at the Philadelphia Water Department worked together to build an understanding and appreciation of each other's responsibilities and expertise.
The New Standard‐Setting Process
Authors: Bailey Jeanne
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the new standard‐setting process mandated by the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) amendments. The contaminant candidate list (CCL) process is discussed and the article explains how this process relates to water utilities and the role played by the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR). The UCMR is divided into three lists that include an assessment survey, a screening survey, and prescreen testing. The unique requirements of the UCMR include the fact that utilities must report their data directly to the US Environmental Protection Agency for compliance purposes, and the data is required to be reported via the Internet.
Bubble Collector Captures Third Place
Authors: Anderson Greg
Published: June 2018

A bubble collector was designed to trap and collect air that is carried down with the lime slurry discharge, and release it to the water surface without adding to the turbidity of the basin effluent. Before the bubble collectors were installed at the lime‐softening plant in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the average effluent turbidity of the worst basin was 9.0 to 10.0 ntu. With the bubble collectors, the average effluent turbidity dropped to less than 5.0 ntu, and is usually under 4.0 ntu.
Air Scouring Solves Old Buildup Problem
Authors: Tehan Tim
Published: June 2018

This article describes the incident of overflowing filters at the West Carrollton, Ohio, water treatment plant. The investigation into the cause is outlined, and the article describes how after one of the wells was cleaned, the increased flow caused 40 years of iron and manganese buildup to slowly break loose from the interior pipe wall, thus clogging the filters. It was found that air scouring caused huge quantities of the iron and manganese buildup to break loose and flow out of the hydrant, thus solving the problem all at once.
Design SCADA System to Suit Utility
Authors: Parsons Ron
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the use of a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system by the City of Santa Monica and how they customized it for their specific needs.
How Should Residuals Be Managed in New Mains?
Authors: Angers Jim
Published: June 2018

This month's question addresses the regulation of disinfectants in new water mains saying it is the responsibility of the water district wherein the activity occurred to monitor the practice of disinfecting new mains. The district should control all aspects of bringing the new main on line. If pipe disinfection is contracted out, the exact process must be specified in the contract documents and the district should retain strict control over the activity. Many contractors may not understand that a closed valve does not protect the main from cross contamination. The article calls out three methods of chlorinating new water mains from C651‐99: AWWA Standard for Disinfecting Water Mains.
Don't Take Filter Performance for Granted
Authors: Huntley Gary M. , Grabowski Peter J. , Pinsky David E.
Published: June 2018

In a direct filtration plant, filter operation and maintenance are critical to ensuring safe, potable water for consumers. Filters that do not operate to their full potential compromise the productivity and quality of filter effluent, increasing the likelihood of particles and pathogenic microorganisms (e.g., Giardia, Cryptosporidium) passing into the filtrate. This article describes how the Lake Gaillard Water Treatment Plant in Branford, Connecticut, used a surveillance program and turbidity and particle counting measurements to monitor filter performance that enabled water treatment plant operators to pinpoint potential problems and develop programs to optimize performance.
Nitrification: Causes, Prevention, and Control
Authors: Cohen Y. Koby , Smith Charlotte , Baribeau Helene ,   AWWA Water Quality in the Distribution System Committee
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how nitrification in drinking water distribution systems is a concern for water systems that use chloramines as a secondary disinfectant. If left uncontrolled, nitrification can lead to serious water quality degradation, high heterotrophic plate count (HPC) in the distribution system, and undetectable disinfectant residual, which may result in violations of the Surface Water Treatment and Total Coliform Rules.
Your Utility Can Survive an Earthquake With Disaster Preparedness
Authors: Sherman David
Published: June 2018

This article describes how Tacoma, Washington, had an opportunity to test the effectiveness of investments it made in preparing their water system for disasters, particularly earthquakes. Tacoma Water suffered only minimal damage from the February 28, 2001 earthquake and no damage on anything that had been retrofitted. The article describes basic improvements it made in two areas: upgrading facilities that could cause human injury or death if they failed; and, improving the utility's ability to continue to supply water immediately following an earthquake. Eight simple steps that Tacoma Water took to improve reliability of the system following an earthquake are listed.
How to Recover a Well's Capacity
Authors: Thomas Larry
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how to recover a well's capacity, once it has been determined that there is a problem with declining well capacity. A list of chemicals used for treating well capacity recovery is given and specific steps and tools are discussed, along with treatment techniques and post‐treatment testing.
Operators Sleuth Their Way to a Solution
Authors: Sorenson Scott
Published: June 2018

This article describes an incident where the Gillette (Wyoming) Water Division received a call from a large medical complex that was having a serious problem with air in the water system. It was found that a solenoid valve that controls the air supply to a dental unit was stuck partially open, creating a vacuum that allowed the air to backflow into the water lines.
MADIRT Program Aids Utilities in Need
Authors: Moyer Jack W. , Elks Ron , Van Hoose Jay
Published: June 2018

This article describes a new statewide program developed by the Disaster Preparedness Committee, formed by the North Carolina Section, American Water Works Association and Water Environment Association. This program, coined MADIRT for Mutual Aid Disaster Intervention Response Teams, provides standardized emergency mutual aid teams ready to address the needs and specifications of a particular system. MADIRT includes all the personnel, equipment, and materials necessary to provide effective emergency assistance to other communities. With standardized teams, municipalities will be able to indicate in advance their probable mutual assistance capabilities, and communities in need will be able to specify the type(s) of teams needed without extensive discussion of specific needs.
How Can a Utility Best Conserve Water?
Authors: Angers Jim
Published: June 2018

This month's question addresses how a utility can conserve water while encouraging the public to do the same. The difference between curtailment and conservation is explained, along with drought management and emergency management. The importance of public education is stressed to promote lifestyle changes, along with the initiation of other programs such as correcting system losses and implementing a leak detection and repair program. Conservation audits, rebates/discounts for low‐flow appliances, automatic in‐ground sprinkler systems, and water storage are also discussed.
Arsenic Challenges for Water Utilities
Authors: Hund Ruth , Brandhuber Philip , Frey Michelle
Published: June 2018

This article, the first of a two‐part series, describes the requirements of the new Arsenic I Rule, which lowers the maximum contaminant level (MCL) to 10 micrograms/L. The article also describes how to determine which utilities should be concerned about arsenic and offers some compliance strategies for utilities that will be challenged by the MCL.
Gas Trap Captures 2nd Place
Authors: Pixley Howard
Published: June 2018

Many water systems using hypochlorite have experienced problems of cavitation in chlorine injection pumps mounted above a supply tank caused by gas from the hypochlorite solution. This simple gadget, using only a jar, a rubber stopper, and some hose lines, solves that problem.
Arsenic Challenges for Water Utilities, Part II
Authors: Hund Ruth , Brandhuber Philip , Frey Michelle
Published: June 2018

This is the second of two articles regarding the new arsenic regulation. In the August 2002 issue of Opflow, Part I described the requirements of the regulation, how to determine which utilities should be concerned about arsenic, and some compliance strategies, including point‐of‐use and point‐of‐entry devices. This article, which is Part II, addresses treatment options and factors to consider when selecting an arsenic removal technology. The treatment options discussed include: conventional or softening treatment; ion exchange; aluminum‐based technologies; iron‐based technologies; membrane technologies; coagulation‐assisted membrane processes; preoxidation considerations; residuals handling; and, media or chemical availability.
They're Water Storage Tanks?
Authors: Zienty Dan
Published: June 2018

Water storage facilities have become a popular location for the installation of antennas and associated ground equipment. This option has helped to limit construction of stand‐alone towers and the continual battle over antenna sites. However, water tanks are not designed for the routing of cables and attachment of antennas. This article details the issues that municipalities should consider when determining antenna placement on water storage tanks.
How Can Customer Surveys Help Our Utility?
Authors: Angers Jim
Published: June 2018

This month's question deals with conducting a customer satisfaction survey. Suggestions are given on how to conduct the survey and what questions should be asked, along with ideas on how a survey would help improve a customer service program.
Close Encounters of the Customer Kind
Authors: Rightmire Suzanne
Published: June 2018

This article relates true stories, shared by customer service employees from Denver Water in Colorado, that are amusing and prove that experiences with customers can at times be funny, frustrating, incredible, and even heartwarming.
What's That Stuff in the Tap Water?
Authors: Rahman Jameel , Burlingame Gary A.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses standardized procedures for identifying particles found by customers in their bathtubs or faucet aerators, and pinpointing their source. Several types of identification techniques are discussed, including: visual, heat, acid, and solvent identification; infrared spectroscopy; and, standard chemical analyses.
Coming to a Neighborhood Near You?
Authors: Newcombe Gayle , Burch Mike
Published: June 2018

This article discusses blue‐green algae in drinking water sources, monitoring for algal toxins, source water management strategies, and treatment options.
‘Water Cop’ Watches Over the Watershed
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

This article describes how Gary Stevens, a water quality‐watershed patrol coordinator for the York (Maine) Water District, patrols the district's huge, lushly forested and ponded watershed twice a week. Due to increased human activity in the watershed, weekly patrols were started in an off‐road vehicle, which were increased to twice weekly in 2000 with the patroller on foot, bike, or ATV to get deeper into the heavily forested areas of the watershed. The article lists recommendations on how to best deal with public access to the watershed property.
How Does LT1 Regulate Combined Filter Effluent?
Authors: Moriarty Edward J.
Published: June 2018

This is the fourth of five articles on the key components of LT1. The first article (August 2002) provided an overview of the rule. The second article (October 2002) identified the necessary components of a disinfection profile. The third article (March 2003) addressed the requirements of a disinfection benchmark. This article discusses how LT1 regulates combined filter effluent (CFE), and answers questions on turbidity limits, lime softening, and reporting CFE information.
Still Working After All These Years
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

This article is about a water industry employee named Jack Vanderwood who, at age 87, continues to own, supervise, and help operate Alto Utilities Ltd., a small community water system that serves 400 customers near his home in southern British Columbia. The article discusses disinfection, although Vanderwood's deep well water system doesn't require disinfection. The article reports that he personally believes Canada would be better served by the privatization of drinking water operations, with the government setting strict rules and regulations for the safety of water supply.
How Should We Address Training Needs?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about organizing a training program for small water system operators. The article makes recommendations on organizing a training program, discusses how certification is a crucial component of every utility's training program, how AWWA's Online Institute is a cost‐effective and easily accessible program for training, and how management also needs training, which can be acquired through AWWA section meetings, workshops, conferences, and the many products and publications that AWWA publishes.
Valve Installer Grabs Third Place
Authors: Simpson Mark , Lewellen Dan , Hamon Larry
Published: June 2018

The Mohawk Water Treatment Plant in Tulsa, Oklahoma, developed the Butterfly Valve Installer to install new filter influent and waste valves. This device allows a valve to be changed out at the rate of one per day, including the time it takes to link the valve back up to the influent or flange and put it back in service. This device minimizes the need for heavy lifting, chain hoists, jacks, and other conventional methods of changing out large valves, thus minimizing down time while valves are changed and reducing the potential for injury.
Bed Expansion Affects Performance
Authors: Chescattie Ed , Anderson Kevin
Published: June 2018

In this article, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PDEP) shares its experiences with filter bed‐expansion measurements. Over a period of 14 years, the PDEP has conducted detailed filter plant performance evaluations at 340 filter plants, and has seen some common performance trends that have refined its expansion measurement techniques to allow for efficient gathering of usable information. The article describes a measuring device and provides instructions on how to make and use it.
Tools to Control Process Performance, Improve Operations
Authors: O'Day Kelly , Reed Douglas , Kendricks Leroy
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how information technology tools offer major benefits to treatment plant operators, and focuses on three applications including supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), reporting software, and process‐decision modeling. A case study is presented of the Lowell Regional Water Utility in Lowell, Massachusetts, where the 40 year old facility was upgraded to using the new information technology tools.
GAC Verification Procedures Save Time, Water
Authors: Lu Owen
Published: June 2018

The city of Riverside, California, has been operating five granular activated carbon (GAC) treatment plants since 2000 to remove volatile organic compounds (VOC) from contaminated groundwater. In evaluating the bacterial quality of virgin GAC, historically the city had used evaluation procedures for disinfecting water mains. With more than 20 GAC changeouts per year, Riverside spent a lot of time and wasted a lot of water to determine if the GAC was safe to use, prompting the city to develop new procedures. These new procedures, approved by the California Department of Health Services in February 2003, save about 720,000 gallons of water per vessel and two days' water supply per each GAC exchange during peak demand season.
Getting the Most Out of Your TOC Information
Authors: Consonery Phil
Published: June 2018

This article discusses compliance to the Stage 1 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts (D/DBP) Rule and the proposed provisions of the Stage 2 D/DBP Rule. The Stage 1 D/DBP Rule focuses on low‐cost steps to optimize treatment, thus lowering DBPs. US Environmental Protection Agency's guidance says the most cost‐effective approach to controlling DBPs may involve the removal of precursors that eventually lead to byproduct formation such as total organic carbon (TOC). This article discusses TOC removal, benefits of TOC removal, and a three‐part plan to help you gather the right data and determine if your treatment plant meets the regulations.
How Should We Size Service Lines?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question is about estimating customer demand and expected maximum flows so that service lines and meters for commercial and residential customers can be properly sized. The article says the best way to estimate customer water use is to profile customer demand by evaluating actual customer use patterns, then use this information to optimize service line and meter size. Topics covered include: how the proper sizing of service lines and meters has a direct affect on a utility's revenues; using capacity and expected meter use information to determine future needs for water source, treatment, and distribution mains; and, the effect water use patterns have on meter sizing.
Here Is the ‘411’ on Monitoring IFE
Authors: Moriarty Edward J.
Published: June 2018

This is the fifth and final article on the key components of the Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1). It discusses the requirement that certain public water systems that serve fewer than 10,000 people using surface water or groundwater under the direct influence of surface water, also referred to as subpart H systems, conduct continuous individual filter effluent (IFE) turbidity monitoring. Previous articles in the series addressed initial steps to comply with the LT1 (August 2002), disinfection profiling (October 2002), benchmarking (March 2003), and combined filter effluent requirements and alternative filtration (July 2003).
Utility Learns Lesson of the Valves
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a situation where closed water valves caused insufficient water volume for the fire department to extinguish a fire in a suburban Denver housing subdivision on Christmas Day, 2003. After a call by the fire department to Denver Water, water pressure was increased to the hydrants, helping firefighters to more easily and quickly extinguish the fire. The article explains that the valves were left closed by construction workers who were working on new housing developments in the area, and that older areas of Denver rarely experience this kind of problem.
Should We Allow Recreational Use?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks whether to allow recreational use of water reservoirs. The article describes how to develop a source water protection plan that allows continued recreational use of the reservoir while providing source protection to reduce the risk from microbial and other contaminants. The article discusses how to establish the reservoir's baseline and watershed data and developing a comprehensive source water assessment program to establish a long‐term database documenting the quality of the raw source water entering and leaving the reservoir.
GIS Conversion Keeps Data Current
Authors: Young Ron
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how the Ontario, California, Utilities Department worked with a contractor to convert water and sewer data from the electronic record‐drawing file to geographic information systems (GIS), creating a program that could generate atlas maps from the GIS data.
We Need Our Customers to Complain
Authors: Whelton Andrew J. , Cooney Margaret F.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the importance of public feedback, or customer complaints, in responding to changes in their water quality as the first responders to possible contamination events. It explains the “syndromic surveillance” concept that public health officials use to track possible waterborne disease outbreaks and explores how this concept can be applied to drinking water surveillance. Topics covered include: complaints to notice; real world examples; making the first response; reviewing the data; and, refining the complaint system.
Repairing the Damage of Hurricane Ivan
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

This article reports on the efforts of the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority (ECCUA) in Escambia County, Florida, (including Pensacola), to restore water service in the badly damaged resort and beach areas after Hurricane Ivan roared through in September 2004, damaging underground water and sewer pipes, service lines, and residential plumbing fixtures. The emergency planning that was in place prior to the hurricane worked fairly well, but modifications will likely be made.
Questions for Appraising or Valuating a Water System
Authors: Pender Bob
Published: June 2018

This article discusses appraising or valuating a water system. Topics covered include: the difference between an appraisal and valuation; who performs an appraisal or valuation; when is an appraisal or valuation study needed; how are they performed; and, a listing of resources for appraisal organizations and professional societies.
Lab or Field Testing for Chloramine Residual?
Authors: Johnson Marla A. , Burlingame Gary A.
Published: June 2018

States typically require field analysis for total chlorine residual because the loss of a residual can be significant during sample transport and storage. Despite this, by adhering to the steps discussed in this article, water utilities providing a total chlorine residual in the form of chloramines can demonstrate that tap water samples can be analyzed in the laboratory rather than the field. A free chlorine residual is more sensitive to factors that promote its decay, which makes it difficult, if not impossible, to demonstrate that samples with a free chlorine residual can be collected and returned to a laboratory for total chlorine residual testing. The article includes a table summarizing the results of various experiments comparing new and used sample bottles, and gives tips on helping prevent decay of chloramine residual during sample transport and storage.
Key Investment in a Utility Upgrade
Authors: Pallansch Karen , Barrett Jerry , Tucker Clara , Sanjines Paula , Heroux Jeff
Published: June 2018

This article discusses an effort by the Alexandria (Virginia) Sanitation Authority to upgrade its 54 mgd advanced wastewater treatment facility. The massive upgrade, costing $330 million, is driving huge organizational changes throughout the Authority that involve transforming the traditional command‐and‐control operational approach into a workplace environment based on cooperative teams that will make the transition from dependence on manual labor and unskilled tasks to highly skilled employees working with an automated system.
Self‐Assessment Puts Quality Back on Track
Authors: Jeffress Heather B.
Published: June 2018

This article describes the Bedford County Public Service Authority (BCPSA), a midsized water utility located in Virginia, and its participation in AWWA's QualServe program. BCPSA conducted the self‐assessment survey in February 2003 and presented the self‐assessment report to the staff in April 2003, which identified the utility's strengths and opportunities for improvement. In September 2003, a peer review was conducted by a team who represented utilities that had previously participated in the program. The process did not discover any faults or weaknesses that were not already known; rather, it corroborated the weaknesses and helped identify a mission and direction for the organization. The most important key to implementing changes was top‐level buy‐in. The article discusses the comprehensive organizational restructuring that improved its internal communications, an electronic call‐out system, and the incorporation of drawings and survey data of as‐built documents to BCPSA's system, which all helped the utility respond to growth demands.
Careful Research Helps Resolve Perchlorate Problems
Authors: Hayward Robert J. , Gillen Douglas F.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a case study of high perchlorate levels in two seasonal groundwater extraction wells at the Lincoln Avenue Water Company (LAWC) in Altadena, California. The wells are located in a Superfund site and pump water from an adjudicated basin caused LAWC to research possible long‐term solutions long before the perchlorate levels were discovered. In the interest of public health, LAWC kept the wells off‐line and purchased water from Metropolitan Water District of Southern california for the next two months at almost triple the cost. The utility communicated the problem openly to its customers, thus mitigating customer apprehension about the possible health effects of drinking perchlorate‐tainted water. The article discusses the process of finding a solution, ion exchange (IX) resin technology, how the technology operates, and cost savings and removal benefits. The article provides lessons learned in the form of eight simple rules that LAWC shares with other utilities experiencing the same problems.
Going Beyond the Call of Duty
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

This article highlights the men and women at two separate water utilities who have been presented with AWWA's Heroism Award for their extraordinary efforts during emergency situations. The water department crew at Padre Dam Municipal Water District in San Diego, California, worked for more than two days protecting the lives and property of local residents during the massive wildfires in October 2003; and, staff at the city of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, Water and Sewer Utilities saved the life of co‐worker Robert Sumeracki who collapsed at work from ventricular fibrillation.
Practical Steps to Reduce Apparent Water Losses
Authors: Thiemann Rob , Hennessy Sean
Published: June 2018

This article discusses water loss and categorizes it into either real losses or apparent losses. A case study is presented of the Kansas City (MO) Water Services Department (KCWSD) where, in 2001, high rates of water loss and accompanying loss of revenue were experienced. A detailed water audit identified several factors leading to both real and apparent water losses. The Water Recovery Committee was formed to address these issues, creating a leak survey crew to accelerate the rate of repair of water main leaks and breaks, and dividing the apparent losses into four main areas. The article discusses several process improvements to further reduce apparent water losses, along with the success of the water recovery measures that were instituted.
What Are the Best Pressure Gauges?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks for help on selecting pressure gauges. The article suggests asking the following questions to help determine the proper gauge: what are you monitoring; what is the environment – indoors, outdoors, and in a chlorine room; what pressures are you monitoring; how accurate must your readings be; what dial size do you need; what type of connection do you need; and, what are your mounting requirements? Other sources of information are provided.
Ballasted Sedimentation Boosts Floc Settling
Authors: Thompson Donald , Moore Richard , Hackworth David
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how Tampa Bay Regional Surface Water Treatment Plant effectively treats three surface water sources (river, storm water canal, and reservoir), each with distinctive water quality characteristics including high color and dissolved organic carbon (DOC), seasonally high alkalinity and hardness, occasional algae blooms, other seasonal fluctuations, and sudden spikes brought on by rain. The treatment plant meets the challenge by incorporating ballasted sedimentation in the coagulation flocculation‐sedimentation process. Operating since 2002, the treatment plant demonstrates the effectiveness of ballasted sedimentation for removing relatively high organic carbon content despite significant variations in raw water quality. The article explains why conventional processes wouldn't work, how the ballasted sedimentation process works, and the benefits gained by using this process.
UV in Northern Kentucky Is Operator‐Friendly
Authors: Baker Anissa , Joslyn Bari
Published: June 2018

This article reports on an effort by Northern Kentucky Water District to install an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system to solve problems in meeting contact time in cold weather, to add an additional barrier against pathogens, and to disinfect while minimizing disinfection byproduct (DBP) formation. The article describes the medium‐pressure pilot system that was used for the pilot study conducted in two phases: bench‐scale testing to determine if the water quality was amenable to UV disinfection; and, on‐site field‐testing consisting of spiking MS2 coliphage into the water and measuring the UV inactivation of MS2.
Probe Preserver Protects Electrodes
Authors: Reichenberger Joseph C.
Published: June 2018

This article presents the Probe Preserver, a cap that protects probes from drying out because the preserver's tight seal around the electrode prevents evaporation of the fluid and eliminates spills. To use, fill an infant formula bottle with the appropriate solution and close with nipple and cap. Place the Probe Preserver on the electrode holder stand and insert the probe into the cut hole in the nipple. The Probe Preserver is liquid tight, thus eliminating any spills.
Automation Supports Unattended Operation
Authors: Lauer William C.
Published: June 2018

This article about the percentage of unattended treatment plant operation in the U.S. is an example of how data was mined from a survey by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency done in 2000 on community water systems and interpreted for a specific purpose, that being determining the percentage of treatment plants that are at risk of malfunction due to incorrect automation or no automation at all when plants are unattended.
Training a Critical Factor for Future Workforce
Authors: DeNileon Gay Porter
Published: June 2018

This article addresses training issues arising from the generational turnover in staff expected in the next couple decades as the baby‐boom generation retires and automated workplaces become more common. The article discusses components that should be included in upgrades of training programs that include: training on processes that use a higher level of technology; cross‐training for staff flexibility; teaching supervisory and managerial skills to existing staff who will replace retiring workers; and, adapting to the needs of a nontraditional labor pool. Operator certification is discussed, with suggestions given for a new global method of training for certification.
Policies Protect Water Storage Tanks
Authors: Hernandez José N. , Gabin Ira M.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a new policy developed by the Cleveland Division of Water for installation and operation of communications equipment used in conjunction with negotiated antenna lease agreements with cellular communication companies (CCCs) for installing antenna equipment on water storage facilities or utility campuses. The CCCs must comply with the policy's eleven requirements concerning design plans, operation, appearance, coatings, enclosures, exclusion zone, installation, maintenance, safety, security, and regulations.
Capacity Doubled in Same Footprint
Authors: Griffin John F. , Sheridan Chris
Published: June 2018

This article discusses an effort by the city of Kennewick, Washington, to increase capacity due to population growth and to operate year‐round to decrease dependence on the collector wells, which had been classified as goundwater under direct influence of surface water. The decision was made to install submerged membranes in lieu of the existing granular media filtration process, thus initiating two other changes: elimination of the ozone contact basin, with a switch to powdered activated carbon and sodium permanganate for taste and odor control; and, a change from chlorine gas to bulk sodium hypochlorite for disinfection. Membrane testing and selection are discussed, along with several incidents of troubleshooting and staying on track to finish the project on schedule. The article finishes with a comparison of granular media versus submerged membranes.
Pay Attention to Public Notices
Authors: Hughes John R.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses public notification provisions under the Safe Drinking Water Act that require water suppliers to notify the public when a problem occurs with their water supply. In 2000, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency published a revised three‐tier system of public notification that gives the water suppliers, based on the severity of the situation, from 24 hrs. to one year to notify customers of the problem. The article outlines the highlights of each tier.
Visualizing the Future: Water Quality Control in the Year 2050
Authors: Burlingame Gary A.
Published: June 2018

This column explores the benefits and challenges of automation to help operators manage these changes and improve service delivery. This month, the column looks at the future of computing and water distribution and how the control of water quality will change by the year 2050 as new technology becomes available. Automation, instrumentation, customer service, water quality monitoring, system alerts and security, and laboratory analysis are all covered in this article's glimpse into the future.
Distribution Operators Our Front Line
Authors: Soltau Steve
Published: June 2018

This article discusses water distribution operators and the importance of their job as the first line of contact between the general public and the water utility. The article provides a list of job requirements and duties for a distribution system operator, along with a discussion of the employer's role in supporting reliable operators by training efforts, benchmarking and performance standards.
Digging up Bones: Excavation Stirs up Ancient Ground
Authors: Wettering Larry
Published: June 2018

This article reports how excavation for a new water treatment facility in Neenah, Wisconsin, turned up the remains of an ancient Native American burial site, resulting in project delays and additional costs due to the state of Wisconsin's comprehensive and strict “burial site preservation” law. Dealing with media attention and public opinion and the archeologist's work scope are discussed, along with relocation of a fire road on the site in agreement with local Native American tribes. Key points to surviving an archeological discovery during plant construction or expansion are listed.
Should We Be Concerned About Endocrine Disruptors?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about the risks of endocrine disruptors and how to test/treat for them at a water treatment plant. The article first explains about the composition of the human endocrine system and the hormones it secretes. It explains how endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) work to interfere with the human endocrine system, and that some pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are also considered EDCs. The article lists the suspected EDCs for which maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) have been established under the Safe Drinking Water Act. It discusses conventional disinfection methods in relation to both organic and inorganic EDCs.
USEPA Considers WTP Effluent Guidelines
Authors: Atasi Khalil Z.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a project by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to survey more than 600 water systems that serve populations greater than 10,000 for information on the quality of the source water, finished water production, current residuals management techniques, and characterization of the residuals. The data will be used to quantify any adverse environmental impacts of residuals discharges from water treatment plants (WTPs), evaluate the effectiveness of treatment technologies for residuals disposal, and determine the incremental pollutant removals and compliance costs for various residuals management options that USEPA might consider for a proposed rule. This is to comply with Section 304 (m) of the Clean Water Act.
Filter Rock Spreader Finishes First in 2006 Contest
Authors: Moore Randy
Published: June 2018

This article presents the Filter Rock Spreader, an operational improvement that reduces the physical handling of filter materials when a filter is being rebuilt. The spreader is a low‐cost tool that cuts the job time of rebuilding a plant filter in half, improves safety, and creates a more even distribution of filter bed layers. This device won First Place in the 2006 Opflow Gimmicks & Gadgets Contest.
Knowing Chemistry Can Help Get the Lead Out
Authors: Burlingame Gary A. , Schock Michael R. , Edwards Marc A.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how lead contamination occurs in the distribution system and covers topics such as: formation of lead passivation; formation of PB(IV) scale; brass corrosion; chloramine residual; and, galvanic corrosion. The article discusses how utilities can minimize the potential for problems arising from lead leaching and scale dissolution, and provides sources of further information.
Retiring or Advancing? Who You Are and What You Do Make a Difference
Authors: Denileon Gay Porter
Published: June 2018

This article on workforce planning discusses why employees need to know what they want, what they can contribute, and what the purpose of their organization is to create a nurturing atmosphere that attracts talented newcomers. Employees who feel part of a team effort tend to be more loyal to an organization, as do employees whose suggestions for improvements and efforts are taken seriously. The people on the job now, whether keepers of utility institutional knowledge with imminent retirement plans or talent of the future, must all take the initiative to ensure their needs are met while maintaining service continuity.
Online Tool Helps Utilities Assess Microbial Contamination Risks
Authors: Butterfield Phillip W. , Camper Anne K. , Rupp Gretchen
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a self‐assessment tool called the Microbial Risk Assessment Guide (MRA Guide), developed by the Montana Water Center at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana. The guide is described as the umbrella computer program for an interactive toolbox that has two goals: to help small water system operators and managers determine where their systems are vulnerable to microbial contamination; and, to supply information that can help with decision making about the necessary investments of time and operational effort, sampling resources, and capital. However, it does not take the place of a sanitary survey or vulnerability assessment. The article describes how the MRA Guide works through an online tutorial of a series of short videos demonstrating how to perform basic tasks, including segments on tutorial navigation, enabling macro security, spreadsheet basics, and an example of completing a general system information worksheet. The article explains the ranking tool, a concept based on a numerical scoring and ranking scheme commonly used to make decisions when there is uncertainty, how to assess “what‐if” scenarios, and interpreting and using your results. Figures are provided of actual screen shots of the computer interface.
Teeing Off with a New Treatment Plant
Authors: Sled Ray , Pierson Greg
Published: June 2018

This article describes a project by the city of Renton, Washington, to build a new groundwater treatment plant on a public golf course to enhance operations and improve water quality. Though advantageous for water supply operations and maintenance, the closeness of these facilities on city‐owned property required intricate coordination between the city's utilities and parks departments to minimize the effects on golfers using the golf course and operations during the new plant's construction. The article lists treatment objectives and provides a plant description, discusses operator training and plant startup, and describes plant operations. A side bar of Lessons Learned is included.
Trailer‐Mounted Hydrant Diffuser Splashes to Second Place
Authors: Congdon Dave
Published: June 2018

This article presents the 2007 Opflow Gimmicks & Gadgets Contest Second Place Winner, the Trailer‐Mounted Hydrant Diffuser. This device directs water straight down and to the curb instead of across a road or landscaping, and allows flushing to be conducted with a valve fully open, thus eliminating the chance of debris getting caught in the seat.
Creating a Digital Nervous System
Authors: Grosch Raymond , Prahl Paul
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the digital nervous system (DNS) of an organization, which is a system designed to automatically collect, manage, and disseminate information to all levels of an organization. The article discusses the components of a DNS for facility management and provides a list of DNS benefits.
Hydraulic Lid Puller Prevents Injuries, Saves Time
Authors: Skolfield Louis
Published: June 2018

This article presents the Hydraulic Lid Puller, which uses hydraulics to safely open CIV lids. The device consists of an L‐shaped frame with a suspended hook to catch the lid and uses a bottle jack for power. The article provides the materials and directions needed to construct this device, and lists the benefits which include preventing injuries, and decreasing the amount of labor required to open stuck lids.
Thrust Restraint New Systems Squeeze Joint Separations
Authors: Rahman Shah
Published: June 2018

This article begins by explaining the occurrence of thrust inside a pipeline and the common methods used in the U.S. and Canada to contain thrust. The article lists several disadvantages of using nonreinforced concrete thrust blocks and joint‐restraint devices. It explains how the next generation of joint restraints addresses the various installation, corrosion, standardization, and logistical problems associated with concrete thrust blocks and lug‐type joint restraints. Next‐generation products are listed, and two examples of next‐generation products in action are provided in an inset to the article.
What You Should Know About Organic Contaminants
Authors:   AWWA Organic Contaminants Control Committee
Published: June 2018

This article discusses organic contaminants, a diverse group of carbon compounds that affect water quality and public health. The article discusses their diverse characteristics, their varied sources, health effects and monitoring, and sampling and analysis.