bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Coliform Testing Methods
Authors: Posavec Steve
Published: June 2018

This article describes a number of procedures that are available for bacteriological testing for processed drinking water and source water, and all have the determination of the total coliform group in common. The article stresses that only certain methods are approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency for total coliforms analysis to comply with the Total Coliform Rule.
Security Threat a ‘Dress Rehearsal’ for Janesville
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

After dealing with a “close call” security threat in June, water utility employees in Janesville, Wisconsin, believe they are far more ready now than ever to protect the safety of their water supply. The experience proved to be invaluable in preparing the utility and the city to be ready and responsive to potential future security incidents. Prior to September 11th, the city's 5‐mil gal elevated water storage reservoir didn't have a padlock or fence and the city's potable water supply was relatively easy to access. This article describes how now, like most other municipal water utilities around the country, Janesville has added many improved security features.
Sandusky Meets Water Quality Challenges
Authors: Keller Doug , Pintabona Bob
Published: June 2018

Increasing water demand at the Sandusky, Ohio, Big Island Water Works (BIWW) Treatment Plant is approaching the plant's rated capacity of 18 mgd, and the plant needs expansion. The Sandusky Master Water Plan recommends a phased approach that will allow Sandusky to meet its present and future water quality and quantity needs by using a three‐step process that includes: upgrading the filters and clearwells; conducting a full‐scale demonstration study to gain approval of the capacity at which the BIWW plant can be operated; and, based on results of the demonstration study, the capacity for some unit treatment processes will be expanded to obtain a higher rated capacity. This article describes the upgrading and expanding of the BIWW plant.
What Is the Best Way to Dechlorinate Backwash Water?
Authors: Angers Jim
Published: June 2018

This month's question on the best way to dechlorinate backwash water has several answers. Recycling the backwash, a passive, nonchemical dechlorinating process, determining a detention time that is adequate to lower the residual chlorine, aeration, and dechlorinating chemicals are all discussed as possible solutions.
Time to Profile and Set the Benchmark
Authors: Moriarty Edward J.
Published: June 2018

This is the third article in a series on the key components of the Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1). The first article (August 2002) addressed key provisions of the rule. The second article (October 2002), discussed the necessary components of a disinfection profile. This article discusses developing the profile, plotting the disinfection profile, and identifying the disinfection benchmarks as they apply to public water systems that use surface water or groundwater under the direct influence of surface water and serve fewer than 10,000 people.
Pipeline Break Tests Utility's Mettle
Authors: Carpenter Carol
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how San Francisco Public Utilities (SFPU) handled a pipeline leak in a 40‐year‐old 78‐in. diameter pipe, which is part of a system that transports water 167 miles from Yosemite National Park to the San Francisco Bay area. Besides the leak, a malfunctioning gate valve would not fully open, which compounded the situation. It took nearly four days to correct the problem, with water supply dropping to only 70 mdg of the usual 240 mgd demand.
Safety ABCs Extend Your Work Life
Authors: Butts Edward
Published: June 2018

This article discusses three important common rules and safeguards ‐ awareness, background, and caution ‐ that when properly observed can help prevent workplace accidents and injuries.
Is Salt Water Compromising Our Well?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns saltwater intrusion in water wells and how to test for it. Testing methods for chlorides and/or electrical conductance are discussed and several references to AWWA manuals are given for further testing procedures.
Pressing Solutions for Residuals
Authors: Ginn Donnie , Phillips Mike , Carr Scott
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a new technology in water treatment works for residuals management using a single‐process pressure‐filter press with a thermal drying system. The article describes the City of Bloomington (Indiana) Utilities' (CBU) experience with using this technology and how it lowered labor costs, enabling CBU to continue using dried solids as cover material at the local landfill rather than disposing of them as waste.
Surprising Water Quality Study May Save Millions
Authors: Mellem James W. , Miller Ellen G.
Published: June 2018

This article describes how the Kansas City, Missouri, Water Services Department (WSD) handled an unexpected major public image problem. After the city upgraded a fashionable part of the city, the 1920s Country Club Plaza area, negative newspaper articles reported that high fecal coliform samples had been taken from the stream that flows through the plaza. The samples showed that public expectations concerning recreational water quality in the stream were not always met. WSD maintained a low profile and, instead of launching a public relations blitz or asking the mayor and city council to pass a mutimillion dollar bond issue, WSD decided to sponsor carefully designed, extensive research.
Corrosion Control Aids Residuals
Authors: Cohen Y. Koby , Abernathy Calvin G. , Hill Christopher P.
Published: June 2018

Unlined cast‐iron and steel pipes, abundant in the Southern California Water Company‐Southwest District distribution system, are known to have water quality problems because of higher disinfectant demands and higher biofilm density. Keeping ahead of the loss of disinfectant residual was labor intensive and costly, so the District conducted a pilot study to investigate alternatives. Several bench‐scale studies have already documented that an effective corrosion control program may increase disinfectant residuals and improve water quality because fewer corrosion products are formed. This article reports research conducted by the District over a three‐year period that studied the long‐term effect of corrosion inhibitors on disinfectant residuals, distribution system hydraulics, and water quality. The study proved that the use of polyphosphate‐blend corrosion inhibitors is effective in maintaining residuals and will help limit water lost to and labor spent on flushing. The District is in the process of implementing the program systemwide.
Fixing the Main While the Water Flows
Authors: Shearin Barry
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how Charlotte‐Mecklenburg Utilities in North Carolina repaired a leaking mainline tap on a 24‐in. waterline without interrupting service to six restaurants, five hotels, an ice skating rink, and several commercial establishments during a 48 hr. period. The utility made an emergency connection between two existing waterlines with aboveground water service lines to provide all customers with domestic water supply and fire protection.
How Do We Handle Water Quality Problems in Residences?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns complaints about residential water quality problems. It is recommended to start with a site inspection to gather facts in order to identify the problem. The basic tools needed for a site inspection are listed. Other recommendations are to determine the affected area, identify the interior service line, consider home treatment systems, and sample the offending material for copper, total coliform, and chlorine. Further sources of information are given.
Systems Approach to Energy Savings
Authors: Tutterow Vestal , Casada Don , Radspieler Anthony
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a methodology known as the “systems approach” for identifying potential efficiency improvements and complements the use of life‐cycle cost analysis. A systems approach to pumping system optimization analyzes both a system's supply and demand and how they interact, with a focus on total system performance. The article describes how the potential energy and cost savings through a systems approach to optimization typically far outweigh the sum of savings through individual component optimization. A case study using the Pumping System Assessment Tool (PSAT) software program is presented, along with a management tool called the Life‐cycle Cost (LCC) that takes into consideration the costs to purchase, install, operate, maintain, and dispose of all components of the system.
What Will Be Expected of Utilities That Install POU Devices?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question addresses how a community water system (CWS) must take control and ownership of any official point‐of‐use (POU) treatment program for a systemwide contaminant. The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) guidelines allow small utilities to use POUs for achieving compliance in removing contaminants, as long as the CWS controls the operation and maintenance of devices it has installed. Also, utilities must provide a maintenance service for these home treatment units. Other topics covered in this article include installation considerations, regular maintenance tasks, and assessing costs.
Hypolimnion Withdrawal Renews Reservoir
Authors: Benskin Pam , Linder Kevin
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the problem of internal nutrient loading at the Aurora Reservoir in Aurora, Colorado, and how water quality has slowly declined over the past several years. The city chose a strategy known as hypolimnetic withdrawal to deal with the problem. The article discusses the strategy, along with questions and concerns about the process, observable benefits, full‐scale selective hypolimnion withdrawal at the Aurora Reservoir, and how a change in weather conditions effected the hypolimnetic withdrawal strategy.
Extending the Life of Cast‐Iron Pipes
Authors: Yacklon Joseph C. , Farmerie James E.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the Village of Westfield, New York's experience of using chemical cleaning to rehabilitate their system's 4‐in.‐diameter cast‐iron pipes. Topics covered include: methods for determining the necessary cleaning solution strength and approximate cleaning time; methods of communicating with consumers about the project costs, provision of bottled water during periods when the water would be shut‐off, and scheduling of water outages; the mobile recirculation unit (MRU) used at each section of the system; easy disposal of the biodegradable chemical cleaning solution certified by Scientific Systems Certification as well as NSF/ANSI Standard 60; the different processes of the cleaning cycle; use of a passivating chemical to line the pipe to prevent flash corrosion; leak detection and rehabilitation; and, increased water pressure with costs being significantly less than pipe replacement as a result of using this cleaning process.
How Do We Treat to Prevent DBPs?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns prevention of disinfection byproducts (DBPs). The article discusses the pros and cons of several alternative treatment methods, including conventional treatment, chemical disinfection, membrane filtration, ion exchange, ultraviolet light disinfection, ozonation, granular activated carbon, and centrally managed point‐of‐use and point‐of‐entry treatment.
Line Stops Keep Water Flowing
Authors: Herman Ed
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a case study where South Bend (Indiana) Water Works (SBWW) suffered four broken valves on a 24‐in. water main all at once. SBWW decided on the line‐stop method of installing a temporary valve to isolate a section of the water main which would limit the number of customers without water service. The line‐stop method is described, along with contingencies and conflicts that occurred during the effort.
Sustainability Options for Small Water Utilities
Authors: Bradley Tim , Kelly Bob
Published: June 2018

This article discusses evaluating water systems for sustainability, or the ability of maintaining financial, technical, or managerial capacity. The National Drinking Water Small System Implementation Working Group reported to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in 2000 that individual states should consider all possible long‐term solutions, including incentives, tax relief, a utility emergency fund, subsidies, and possibly takeover. The article discusses receivership as a provisional remedy for exceptionally troubled systems, selling considerations, and examining a utility's records to get a true picture of its value. A table listing recent water utility sales in California is provided, along with a list of major providers of financial assistance to drinking water systems.
How Do We Implement Wise Water Use?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's column discusses several programs that are available to help utilities save money through efficient water tracking and use that are funded by the US Environmental Protection Agency's State Revolving Fund program. Those programs include: metering each customer; water audits; use‐based water rates; high water use surcharges; water efficient equipment, appliances, and plumbing fixtures; reducing lawn‐watering time by Xeriscaping; and, using reclaimed wastewater. The article offers several tips on educating the public about water efficiency programs, thus making the programs more successful.
Deep Water, Low Temperatures Hamper Main Break Repair
Authors: Spelay Karen , Sharp Jennifer
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a case study of a feeder main break in −31° F. weather in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The break flooded a main arterial road in Calgary and the water quickly froze in the sub‐zero degree weather. Crews located and shut off valves to isolate the system closer to the break location. The main was shut off by 9am, and fortunately, the system had enough built‐in redundancy to handle average daily demands without the broken feeder main. To avoid water hammer, water was pumped into the system slowly to refill the distribution system. The article describes how the city handled the freezing water and how storm drains were plugged. Cloudy water and low water pressure suggested that a press release should be issued advising customers to flush their pipes. The article discusses how the mode of failure was determined, along with the possibility of additional wire breaks occuring in the system.
Easing Into Dechlorination
Authors: Burg Paul
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how utilities are struggling to adapt to new regulations that require the neutralization of chlorine at the time of discharge. Both the US Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Water Act standards and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act guidelines state that water to be discharged into both freshwater and marine waters must contain less than 0.02 mg/L chlorine, less than 2% of the usual chlorine concentration in potable water in most distribution systems. Proper dechlorination before discharging water is critical in preventing irreversible environmental damage. The article focuses on the difficulties of dechlorination, equipment and chemicals used for dechlorination, and how to choose the best method for your needs.
Connecting to Today's Diverse and Savvy Workforce
Authors: Aiello Louis
Published: June 2018

This article begins by discussing the difference between today's workforce and that of 20 years ago. It goes on to discuss several practices that can help managers be more effective and respected by their workforce that include: honesty; firmness, fairness, and consistency; lead by example; be courteous and respectful at all times; listen and be open‐minded; provide the knowledge and training for workers to do their jobs; give praise; serve as a coach, promote teamwork by being part of the team yourself; be innovative; and, enjoy what you do.
Integrating Surface Water Into Distribution Systems
Authors: Gibson Craig D. , Reynolds William R.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses Tacoma (Washington) Water's Second Supply Project (SSP) that involved installing a new 34 mile long steel transmission water main and a new chemical feed facility, improvements to Tacoma's Green River diversion facilities, adding additional water storage capacity behind the Howard Hanson Dam, and numerous environmental enhancement projects. This article discusses the hydraulic considerations associated with the new pipeline and the water quality and aesthetic issues in preparation for distributing the new blended supplies to customers.
Something Good to Say About Lead and Copper Testing
Authors: Heard Jeff , Stanley Nick
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how staff at Tipton (Indiana) Municipal Utilities reduced costly and time‐consuming leak repairs at service line connections by adding a corrosion inhibitor that consisted of 80% orthophosphate and 20% polyphosphate. Coupon corrosion rates have decreased from 8.37 mil/yr, based on samples taken in March 1993, to 3.18 mil/yr in April 2004. The article discusses unexpected leak repairs and the switch to chloramination for disinfection in 2001.
Getting High on the Job — Safely!
Authors: Kufus Martin
Published: June 2018

This article discusses an emergency plan at San Antonio's Bexar Metropolitan Water District for its high‐angle activities. The District brought in a high‐angle safety course for selected supervisory personnel and purchased “fall‐arrest” personal protective equipment (PPE) such as full‐body harnesses, double‐lanyards with self‐locking snaphooks, and large auto‐locking carabiners for all of its designated climbers. The climbing safety training will be used for climbing any water structure more than 12 ft. high such as the District's 14 elevated storage tanks, standpipes and ground storage tanks. The article lists the guidelines included in its standard operating procedures for climbing safety.
Reclaimed Water — Is It for Everyone?
Authors: Clark Tom , Dotson Karen
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the different reactions and results when two residential neighborhoods served by Tucson Water in Arizona were provided with reclaimed water. The article gives a brief background on the water‐conscious community, stresses how committed the community is to increasing the use of effluent as part of its long‐range water supply plan, describes Tucson's reclaimed system, and profiles its customer base. The article discusses Neighborhood A, an older area with one‐acre and larger lots and high outdoor water use and Neighborhood B, Tucson's first “sustainable” community whose covenants required that all outdoor watering be with reclaimed water. The article covers topics that include water rates and savings, customer satisfaction, the time involved to properly manage reclaimed water, and appropriate factors to consider in deciding to use reclaimed water.
Determining Distribution System Storage Needs
Authors: Ulasir Murat , Czachorski Robert , Kaunelis Vyto
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how to determine distribution system storage needs. Topics covered include: adequate fire protection volume; peak‐hour demand; oversized pumping stations and/or transmission mains; reduced rates for communities that purchase wholesale water; regulations; functional design considerations; equalization volume; emergency storage; and, a general rule of thumb that can be applied to sum up these practices and regulations in a simple formula. Further sources of information are provided.
First Place, Nut Extractor Nails Top Prize
Authors: Bracy Joe
Published: June 2018

The Bracy Nut Extractor (BNE) removes a service box nut effectively and efficiently, eliminating potential damage to the box top and the valve and saves strain on the operator. Materials and construction instructions are provided.
Improving Distribution System Security
Authors: Murphy Brian , Kirmeyer Gregg
Published: June 2018

This article discusses certain immediate measures that can be taken to enhance security and reduce risks that were not addressed in utility vulnerability assessments before investing in major security systems. These activities can be accomplished within a two‐year time frame and maximize available tools, resources, technologies, policies, and procedures to improve security with minimal capital investment.
Improved Performance, Prolonged Life, Reduced Costs
Authors: Lewis David J. , Davis C. Russell
Published: June 2018

This article discusses lessons learned from the operation and maintenance of the Kenosha, Wisconsin, Water Utility's 22‐mgd microfiltration plant, the largest municipal membrane facility in the world. The lessons include the importance of regular membrane integrity testing, scheduled cleaning, preventive maintenance, staff training, and financial planning. The plant uses a direct filtration application of a low‐pressure membrane technology where raw water is pumped once by low lift pumps through the process to the clearwell. No chemicals are used in the membrane treatment process prior to adding chlorine for disinfection.
How Many Ways Can We Kill a Pump?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about operation and maintenance of centrifugal and chemical pumps, specifically whether they can be damaged and how. The answer consists of 10 ways to “snuff” a pump.
What Are the Treatment Options for Small Groundwater Systems?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about treatment options for small groundwater systems. The article begins by offering suggestions on how to determine the issues specific to each system such as new compliance rules and their deadlines. It discusses briefly the most common treatment processes for groundwater problems that include: aeration, oxidation, softening, filtration, absorption, and adsorption. The article suggests doing a pilot study before investing in a new treatment process, and suggests discussing the issues surrounding the waste product that will be generated. Various AWWA resources for dealing with this subject are provided.
Applying the Threat Response ‘Toolbox’
Authors: Kufus Martin
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA's) publication titled, “Response Protocol Toolbox: Planning for and Responding to Drinking Water Contamination Threats and Incidents.” The article focuses on how the use of a federally recommended decision‐making process during an ambiguous and possibly threatening situation could bring order to a utility's crisis response. The toolbox defines three possible threat levels and lists eight threat warnings that may be the first indication of a possible act of sabotage. Of the eight threat warnings, the article discusses the two most likely to occur, which are notification by the perpetrator, and discovery of a security breach at a water facility. The article discusses the next two steps to take simultaneously after determining that there is a possible threat, actions for a credible threat, and information supporting confirmation of a contamination event.
Fortune Cookies Put Safety First
Authors: Wilson Aimee
Published: June 2018

The 2005 Gimmicks & Gadgets Contest Honorable Mention winner was Aimee Wilson for her gimmick of using fortune cookies to get co‐workers to attend safety meetings and while at the meeting, to keep their attention focused on safety. In place of showing another video on safety, she passed out fortune cookies at the meeting with safety‐related fortunes/messages inside. She also provided egg rolls and rice at the meeting to celebrate the Chinese New Year while everyone enjoyed reading their fortunes out loud. A recipe for baking the fortune cookies is provided.
Who Controls the Fire Hydrants?
Authors: Stubbart John
Published: June 2018

The month's question asks who is responsible for testing and maintaining fire hydrants, the fire department, the city, or the water utility. Unless otherwise stated, the water purveyor (the hydrant owner) retains the responsibility for maintenance and inspection of the hydrants. Other issues of hydrant operation and maintenance should be specifically stated in a written agreement. Several other hydrant uses are discussed, along with ordinance requirements regarding authorized and unauthorized hydrant use. Additional considerations such as cross‐connections, hydrant locks, and other security devices are discussed.
When in Drought, Look to the Sun
Authors: Moss Linda R.
Published: June 2018

This article reports on a situation where an extended drought weather‐cycle in Salt Lake City, Utah, resulted in water quality problems in two of the city's primary supply reservoirs: Mountain Dell Reservoir, known as the Lower Reservoir, and the Little Dell Reservoir, or the “Upper Reservoir”. The article describes how these problems were resolved with a cost‐effective solar‐powered water circulator that improved water quality without affecting water quantity.
Reducing Chlorine Demand with Chemical Cleaning
Authors: Harjo William W. , Selvidge Charles , Reimann‐Philipp Ulrich
Published: June 2018

This article reports on a situation in Dustin, a small community in rural Oklahoma, where red‐water complaints, elevated turbidity, and low chlorine residuals that had occurred occasionally over the years became more frequent in 2001. This led to Total Coliform Rule violations and boil‐water advisories. Chemically cleaning most of the infrastructure has helped eliminate excess chlorine demand and reduce the red‐water and turbidity complaints. The article describes the methodology the City of Dustin used to evaluate the effect of chemical cleaning on its water quality, the chemical cleaning process itself, residual testing, and the persistent problem of high disinfection byproduct concentration.
Tight Budgets Strap Small Towns With Old Tanks
Authors: Zienty Daniel J.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses several methods of reliable and effective storage tank maintenance by defining and comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each option that include direct‐hire contracting, professional service contract (PSC), and traditional bidding or design‐bid‐build.
Developing and Maintaining a Cross‐Connection Control Program
Authors: Werley Robert
Published: June 2018

This article discusses developing and maintaining a cross‐connection control program. This type of program eliminates possible sources of contamination by identifying cross‐connections and requiring that appropriate backflow‐prevention assemblies be installed and maintained to protect the water system from possible sources of contamination. The article discusses detailed steps for developing a cross‐connection control program.
Reciprocity Not All States Are Equal
Authors: Gollnitz William D.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the author's experience with the inequality of operator certification from state to state and the importance of reciprocity between states. The article gives recommendations for obtaining an operator's license after moving to a new state. A table comparing the license requirements for New York State Grade II‐A with Midwest State Class III Operator certification requirements as of 1997 is provided.
Recognizing Danger How to Identify a Meth Lab
Authors: Branan Nicole
Published: June 2018

This article discusses several warning signs to help utility workers recognize and identify a meth lab when out in the field. The problem is particularly pronounced in rural areas and many utilities are working with law enforcement officials to educate water operators on how to recognize meth labs. The article discusses meth home production and the dangers they present. Common signs of meth lab activity are listed, along with steps to follow when you suspect you have come across a meth lab.
The Pressure's On PRV Stations Curb Insurance Rates
Authors: Eder Aaron
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a situation in Hillsboro, Oregon, where numerous high‐tech firms were experiencing a gradual reduction in service pressure over time. The city's water department decided the best long‐term solution was to create a separate, higher‐pressure zone in the industrial area. They identified six locations for installation of pressure‐reducing valve (PRV) stations that automatically reduce a higher inlet pressure to a steady, lower downstream pressure, regardless of changing flow rates or varying inlet pressure. The resulting design created a high‐pressure loop that surrounds customers in the designated high‐pressure zone. Safe conditions, continuous flow and installation problems are discussed, along with smooth startup procedures.
Why Red Water? Understanding Iron Release in Distribution Systems
Authors: Burlingame Gary A. , Lytle Darren A. , Snoeyink Vernon L.
Published: June 2018

This article explains the mechanisms of how iron release occurs and the factors that affect it, in order to aid utilities in mitigating water quality problems that develop from the corrosion of cast‐iron pipe. The article discusses the nature of iron corrosion scale and its three layers. Factors affecting iron release are discussed, along with water quality indicators.
Disinfecting Mains with Ozonation Alternative Saves Time, Environment
Authors: Dahm Bruce , Schulz Christopher R.
Published: June 2018

This article describes a project by Denver Water to use ozonation for water main disinfection. Over the course of the project, the disinfection efficiency of ozonation for disinfecting water mains was evaluated in laboratory, pipe‐loop, and full‐scale field trials. The utility designed and constructed a trailer‐mounted ozone system that was used first for performing pipe‐loop and full‐scale field trials, then eventually for routine disinfection of water mains in the distribution system. The article discusses the main equipment, the different approach required when using ozone, and the test results, which indicated that suspended bacteria was inactivated but inactivation of attached bacteria was significantly less effective.
Floating Pumps Allow Easy Access to Remote, Problematic Reservoirs
Authors: Edwards Alan D. , Meyer William J. , Walski James K.
Published: June 2018

This article describes how twin floating pump stations were developed for pumping water out of the In Town Lakes to be used for the emergency raw water needs of Chesapeake, Virginia. This was the first project of its kind on this scale east of the Mississippi River, as well as the first to involve the additional complications of wetlands, hurricane wind loads, intra‐lake recirculation, and muddy soils. The stations are 40 ft. by 40 ft. galvanized steel platforms, or barges, decked with lightweight concrete panels and placed on polyethylene encapsulated floats. Each station is equipped with two vertical turbine pumps with space for two additional pumps in the future. Operational procedures are discussed, along with construction advantages, water construction challenges, and hurricane preparedness.
Why Do Distribution System Pipes Corrode?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns pipeline corrosion in distribution systems. The answer first discusses how pipeline corrosion occurs and then describes how to identify the cause. The article provides a galvanic series of selected metals and alloys (in seawater) and offers a listing of several factors that influence pipe corrosion. The article discusses coatings, encasement in polyethylene, and cathodic protection as means of controlling corrosion. A list of resources are provided.
How Should Water Utilities Prepare for a Future Labor Shortage?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about preparing for a future shortage of water treatment plant (WTP) operators. The article provides background statistics on the Baby Boom Generation, and states that a major portion of the U.S. workforce will be retiring between the years 2011 and 2029. Future employees are fewer in number by about 15 percent, thus suggesting that there won't be enough workers to fill the present number of positions. The article suggests steps that utilities can take to prepare for this.
Net Charge Equals Positive Change
Authors: Teasdale David
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how streaming current monitors can enhance coagulation by making it easier to quantify dosing levels at Canada's largest low‐pressure, enhanced coagulation membrane water treatment plant. Pilot studies indicated a 30 percent increase in membrane performance and a 25 percent increase in water production during the same period. The article discusses the plant's source water, how this technology works, and the major operational challenge of determining the proper streaming current value (SCV), the objective being to find the optimum SCV that corresponds with optimum organics removal, particle destabilization, and plant performance.
What Should We Tell Our Customers About Fluoride?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks how to respond to customers who complain about adding fluoride to the drinking water. The article begins by summarizing the history of adding fluoride to drinking water, and then discusses practical concerns voiced by customers concerning health risks or too much government control of our daily lives. The article provides the AWWA Policy Statement on Fluoridation of Public Water Supplies.
Use Proactive Management to Meet Regulatory Challenges
Authors: Tropea Lawrence , Donahue Edward
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a new reality that is confronting water suppliers that calls for establishing more developed, proactive compliance management systems. The article examines some of the driving forces changing the water industry including increased regulation, improved safety, enhanced regulatory focus, and increased public interest. The article also discusses response strategies for utility operators and their boards or commissions to this new reality, keys to building an effective compliance system, environmental and safety policy development, and determining what can be improved. The article provides side bars on Elements of an Environmental and Safety Program, Sample Environmental and Safety Policy Statement, and Utility Environmental Compliance Checklist.
Do Your Distribution Samples Provide a Clear Picture of Water Quality?
Authors: Guistino Joe
Published: June 2018

This article describes how variations in distribution system pumping schedules, as well as chemical and biological activity in reservoirs, can affect the water quality in a distribution system as the water flows through at various times of the day. The article discusses changing sample‐collecting procedures in order to more accurately record water quality variations everyday, how the time of day when the samples are taken can affect the blend of water, and several reservoir sampling approaches including inlet‐outlet sampling, hatch sampling, dedicated sample lines, and reservoir mixers. Daily reservoir activity is discussed, along with the need for a comprehensive reservoir monitoring program.
What Prompted Changes in AWWA's C900‐07 PVC Standard?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks why significant changes were made to AWWA Standard C900‐07: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe and Fabricated Fittings, 4 in. Through 12 in. (100 mm Through 300 mm), for Water Transmission and Distribution. The changes involved numbers calculated from a pipe's design basis and how the design basis addresses operational surge pressures that were based on research contained in an Awwa Research Foundation report entitled, “Long‐Term Performance Prediction for PVC Pipes,” published in 2005, and from the track record of PVC pipes. Improved safety, surge allowance, and emergency situations are discussed. A table of the C900 pressure class changes is provided.
Promoting Effective Water Loss Control
Authors: Kunkel George
Published: June 2018

Because water supplies in many parts of North America are greatly stressed by limited water resources and burgeoning populations, water efficiency is taking on greater importance. This article discusses an improved water audit method developed by the AWWA Water Loss Control Committee that comes with free Water Audit Software that can be downloaded from the Internet. The article includes a table that shows the standard water balance summary of the IWA/AWWA Water Audit Method. The method highlights water consumption and water loss by volume and cost impact as the primary performance indicators.
Developing Future Leaders
Authors: Rentfrow Diane D.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses using the power of learning to nurture and retain workforce leaders at American States Water. The company's Service Leadership Academy is a comprehensive management program that is offered through the company's Employee Development University. The academy's approach is aimed at developing leadership competencies required of all employees in a changing economic environment. The program's objective is to help participants develop strong service, communications, supervisory, and technical skills that will contribute to their future success as leaders in the company. The academy helps to form the cornerstone for succession planning at all levels of the company. The article provides a table that lists the Service Leadership Academy curriculum.
How Should We Prepare for Emergency Situations?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about preparing for emergency situations and jobsite dangers. The article suggests repeated training and regularly reviewing protective equipment requirements, chemical spill procedures, on‐the‐job injury protocols, equipment safety, emergency chain‐of‐command, weather hazards, and developing plans for dealing with various types of injuries related to each task. The article mentions the Occupational Safety and Health Administration free online program as a source for assistance with proper safety procedures and equipment. The article provides a sequence of steps for rescuing a worker from a hypothetical situation.
Monitoring Potential Contamination at the US–Mexico Border
Authors: Kufus Martin
Published: June 2018

This article discusses a comprehensive water‐contamination early warning system (EWS) at the Jefferson Water Treatment Plant in Laredo, Texas. The article discusses the variable conditions of the Rio Grande, particularly the immigration issues associated with the Rio Grande being the nation's border in that part of Texas, and how the Laredo Water Utilities Department is required to react to fluctuating river flows, turbidity, and levels of upstream effluents. The WTP uses a multistep treatment process of coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation. The article explains how an EWS works, particularly the data‐gathering and camera platform that is the basis of Laredo's EWS.
Top 10 Reasons for Health Advisories
Authors:   The Washington State Department of Health
Published: June 2018

This article outlines the top 10 reasons published by the Washington State Department of Health, Division of Environmental Health, Office of Drinking Water for issuing health advisories concerning drinking water. The article lists several suggestions for mitigating these problems.
How Can Our Utility Prepare for Potential Residuals Regulations?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question concerns possible new regulations for water treatment residuals and how to prepare for changes in treatment plant disposal practices. The answer depends on the results of a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) survey of approximately 625 treatment plants to determine if national effluent guidelines for drinking water plants should be developed under the Clean Water Act. The collected information will include treatment practices, residuals characteristics, and residuals management methods. If new effluent guidelines are proposed, they may significantly affect future National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements for drinking water systems. The fact that landfills are at, or nearing, capacity is the cause of this examination of disposal practices. The article discusses practices that can reduce the amount of waste generated which will benefit the environment and help cut costs.
Changing Pumps to Meet Changing System
Authors: Brady James M.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses how decreasing revenue from the sale of water challenged the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) staff to lower pumping costs within the restrictions of oversized pump combinations. PWD first evaluated pumping schedules and water demands in four high‐service districts within the city's distribution system. This revealed that many pumps were no longer operating in their optimum range. The article discusses the different solutions implemented by PWD in each of the service districts.
Ratcheting Up Lab Response to Water Quality Warnings
Authors: Burlingame Gary A.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses sustaining a utility's extensive response plan as a stand‐alone program beginning with strengthening a utility's laboratory practices, including routine sampling, data handling, and management of water quality and customer complaints. The article discusses setting a high standard, identifying capabilities and limitations, expanding safety programs, and sampling and monitoring. The article provides two sidebars, one addressing three modules within the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Toolbox pertaining to water quality sampling and analyses, and the other describing a Laboratory Response Network established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to organize a national network of about 150 labs that can respond to biological and chemical terrorism and other public health emergencies.
Leading for Effectiveness (Confessions of a Reformed Perfectionist)
Authors: Ball Timothy L. , Ball Steven C.
Published: June 2018

Every organization faces challenges in its path to maximum performance. Some of the most common mistakes organizations make originate with managers who, in their pursuit of efficiency, lose sight of the larger goal of effectiveness. This article discusses how managers who are willing to take the path of self‐assessment and improvement can leverage leadership skills to produce greater results throughout their organizations. This article highlights the insights of business writers Dave Ulrich, Larry Bossidy, and others whose insights often overlap, and may sometimes even seem to contradict each other, but they all support the goal of effectiveness.
Follow a Five‐Step Plan for Source Water Protection
Authors:   By The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
Published: June 2018

This article summarizes the 5 step program created by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for utilities to use in identifying their water source so it can be analyzed for potential threats, and therefore manage risks to the water supply.
Do You Have Any Fire Hydrant Testing/Maintenance Recommendations?
Authors: Kline Pat
Published: June 2018

This month's question asks about proper fire hydrant testing or maintenance practices. The article provides basic information on two types of fire hydrants, wet‐barrel hydrants and dry‐barrel hydrants. Common concerns that occur when incorrectly operating a hydrant are discussed, along with color coding of hydrants for flow capacity, timely repair/replacement of hydrants, keeping hydrants clear of vegetation and other obstructions, using a stethoscope as a listening device, using a weighted cord to check for water standing in the barrel of the hydrant, and checking for leaks around seals and threads.
Automatic Meter Reading Helps Utilities Face Future Challenges
Authors: Kelly Christina
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the benefits of automatic meter reading (AMR), and how AMR can enhance utility operations and locate nonrevenue water.
Pipe End‐Covers Reduce Contamination
Authors: Holmes Russell
Published: June 2018

This article discusses an effort by the city of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, to implement a requirement for pipe end‐covers on new water mains prior to, and during, installation. The article provides a brief overview of standard practice before end‐covers were required, the effectiveness of the flushing and disinfection procedures, end‐cover costs and requirements, and issues with phasing‐in end‐covers.
Sound Water Practices Ultrasonic Technology Controls Algae and Biofilm
Authors: Hutchinson George
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the use of ultrasound technology to improve water quality in an economical way by controling algae growth in ponds, lakes, and reservoirs and eliminating biofilm growth inside water treatment plants. The technology works by matching the resonance frequency of the algae cells with just enough ultrasonic sound waves to influence cell structure. The algae lose buoyancy and sink, their life cycle processes are disrupted, and their ability to guard against bacteria is weakened. An example of the use of ultrasound technology at the city of Union, South Carolina is provided.
Leverage Utility Applications with SCADA Data
Authors: Draper Terry M.
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the importance of data exchange across various applications, in particular supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. The article discusses accessing information from a data repository, along with the benefits of data exchange across systems that include: computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS); laboratory information management systems (LIMS); geographic information systems (GIS); hydraulic modeling; and, customer service call centers.
Emerging Contaminants Insights to the Most Effective EDC and PPCP Treatment Strategies
Authors: Oppenheimer Joan , Stephenson Roger , Decarolis James
Published: June 2018

This article discusses the occurrence of endocrine disruptors, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products in surface water supplies, and how water utilities can reduce these compounds in drinking water by understanding upstream wastewater treatment processes. The effectiveness of advanced treatment processes in removing these compounds in secondary effluent is beneficial in demonstrating treatment performance. The article provides three examples of recent projects evaluating various treatment processes in preventing the passage of the compounds into water supplies. The treatment processes include: solids retention time (SRT) of the activated sludge process; wastewater granular media filters and microfiltration/reverse osmosis (MF/RO); pilot membrane bioreactor; and, ultraviolet (UV)/peroxide treatment as an additional barrier in RO‐treated tertiary wastewater effluent. The article offers important treatment suggestions, along with a sidebar that offers suggestions on relating information to customers on this topic.