White House Announces Nearly $6 Billion for Water Infrastructure

This week the Biden administration announced a $5.8 billion investment towards improving the nation’s ailing water infrastructure, part of the bipartisan 2021 legislation allocating $50 billion for water infrastructure enhancements. These funds aim to address the critical needs of modernizing drinking water systems and wastewater management across the country. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has long highlighted the deteriorating state of U.S. water systems, assigning a C- rating to drinking water infrastructure and a D+ to wastewater systems in 2021. This situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive upgrades to safeguard public health and ensure environmental sustainability.

The allocated funds will facilitate projects to eliminate lead pipes, enhance water treatment processes, and expand access to safe drinking water, particularly in underserved communities. The initiative not only focuses on replacing hazardous lead service lines but also addresses the challenges posed by climate change, such as saltwater intrusion and increased sediment and pollutant runoff, which compromise water quality and availability.

The federal government’s strategy involves distributing funds through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs, allowing states, territories, and tribes to prioritize and manage projects according to their specific needs. This decentralized approach ensures that the unique water infrastructure challenges of each region can be addressed effectively, from the urban centers grappling with lead contamination to rural areas facing water scarcity.

However, the endeavor to revamp the nation’s water infrastructure is not without its complexities. Past efforts, like those in Flint, Michigan, have demonstrated the risks associated with transitioning water sources and the dire consequences of inadequate corrosion control measures. Flint’s crisis, where elevated blood lead levels were discovered in residents due to corroded pipes, is a stark reminder of the critical need for continued investment in water treatment and distribution.

Eastern Kentucky emerges as a real-life example, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure renewal. A story from Lexington NPR station WEKU earlier this week highlights that the region, already accustomed to dealing with water issues, faced unprecedented hardship following a historic flood in 2022 that devastated drinking water systems. This catastrophe revealed the true fragility of our aging infrastructure, with some systems relying on pipes that are 70 to 100 years old. The situation illustrates the broader challenges faced nationwide in ensuring reliable access to clean water amidst both natural disasters and aging facilities.

The commitment demonstrated by this bipartisan bill shows, at the least, an across-the-aisle acknowledgment of the rapidly crumbling infrastructure in both urban and rural areas. For water treatment professionals, this significant federal investment presents an opportunity to address decades old concerns like lead pipes and rural access, as well as modernizing treatment processes to keep beautiful clean water flowing for all Americans.

Resources: ABC News, CNN, WEKU

Green Desalination

Nate Talley

A few weeks ago we covered research published in the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ Journal of Petroleum Technology that laid out the possibilities of mining rare earth minerals from Produced Water, a byproduct of oil and gas production. This week we delve into a company that’s betting on the profitability of another toxic byproduct: Desalination brine. The combination of high operational costs, environmental impact, and the logistical challenges associated with brine disposal has limited the widespread adoption of desalination technology, especially in regions where cheaper alternatives are available. The surge in desalination as a solution to global water shortages has brought about environmental concerns, particularly regarding the energy-intensive processes involved and the disposal of brine byproducts.

However, a pioneering initiative by the startup Capture6 is set to redefine the narrative by integrating carbon capture technology with seawater desalination efforts, promising a sustainable future for both water supply and carbon reduction. Desalination plants, crucial for supplying fresh water in drought-prone regions, face criticism for their environmental impact, notably the production of brine—a toxic byproduct harmful to marine ecosystems—and significant energy consumption contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. The challenge is twofold: supplying fresh water sustainably and mitigating the carbon footprint of such essential operations. Capture6’s venture, dubbed Project Octopus, presents an innovative approach to these challenges. The project, to be piloted in South Korea, aims to capture carbon dioxide from the air using brine from desalination processes. This not only offers a method to reduce the carbon footprint but also tackles the issue of brine disposal by turning it into a resource for carbon sequestration. Furthermore, the process yields an additional supply of fresh water, addressing the water scarcity problem head-on.

Project Octopus leverages a liquid sorbent derived from the salt in desalination brine to react with atmospheric CO2, producing a stable, limestone-like compound that securely locks away the carbon. This synergy between desalination and direct air capture (DAC) technology could revolutionize how industries perceive and manage their waste, transforming it from an environmental liability into a valuable asset in the fight against climate change. Despite the potential benefits, the energy requirements for DAC and desalination are considerable, with current operations largely dependent on fossil fuels. The environmental viability of such projects hinges on advances in energy efficiency and the transition to renewable energy sources to power these processes. Critics and researchers alike emphasize the importance of ensuring that the net impact of integrated facilities like Project Octopus is a reduction in overall emissions and not merely a redistribution of environmental burdens.

The ambition of Capture6, supported by collaborations with South Korean water utility K-water and wastewater treatment company BKT, reflects a growing recognition of the need for multidisciplinary solutions to climate and water challenges. While the pilot project’s scale is modest, its aim to expand significantly by 2026 illustrates the potential for scalable solutions that can have a meaningful impact on carbon reduction and water reclamation. Capture6’s innovative integration of carbon capture with desalination waste treatment stands as a beacon of how technology can bridge the gap between industrial necessities and environmental stewardship. As this and similar projects progress, they offer hope for sustainable practices that can simultaneously address the urgent needs for clean water and carbon reduction. For water treatment professionals, this represents a burgeoning field ripe with opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and leadership in environmental conservation.

Resources: WaterWorld, The Verge

New AI Systems Increase Efficiency in Identifying Contaminants

Nate Talley

The escalation of pharmaceutical consumption globally has led to an increasing presence of trace substances in sewage and wastewater treatment plants. These substances, often remnants from metabolized pharmaceuticals, pose significant challenges due to their potential harmful effects on both environmental and human health. A groundbreaking approach by the Korea Institute of Science and Technology uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify and predict the behavior of these emerging contaminants.

The KIST team’s innovative use of AI represents a significant leap forward in the water treatment sector’s ability to manage and mitigate pharmaceutical contaminants. By employing self-organizing maps, a form of AI that clusters data based on similarities, researchers can now classify known trace substances, such as medicinal compounds caffeine, and even illicit drugs, by their physicochemical properties. This method not only streamlines the identification process but also enables the prediction of how these substances behave in water sources.

Further enhancing this AI application, the KIST research team utilized random forests, another machine learning technique, to predict the properties and concentration changes of new trace substances with remarkable accuracy. This predictive model far surpasses the capabilities of traditional AI techniques, offering a precision level of about 0.75 compared to the previous 0.40. This advancement allows for a more efficient understanding of how new contaminants might affect wastewater treatment processes.

Traditional methods of analyzing trace substances in wastewater are not only time-consuming and costly but also require extensive expert knowledge. The AI model developed by KIST, however, offers a data-driven alternative that efficiently predicts the concentration changes of new trace substances based on their physicochemical properties. This approach represents a significant improvement in both speed and accuracy over conventional prediction methods.

The potential applications of this AI model extend beyond laboratory research. Water treatment facilities dealing with emerging contaminants can benefit from this technology, enabling them to quickly adapt treatment processes in response to new threats. Moreover, this model can aid in the formulation of regulations and policies by providing rapid, accurate data on the behavior of pharmaceutical contaminants.

The integration of AI into the identification and prediction of pharmaceutical contaminants in wastewater signals a new era in water treatment technology. As this model continues to evolve, its increasing accuracy—bolstered by the accumulation of relevant data—will offer water treatment professionals a powerful tool in safeguarding environmental and public health. The work of Dr. Seokwon Hong, Dr. Moon Son, and their team at KIST not only highlights the potential of AI in environmental management but also paves the way for future advancements in water treatment efficiency and safety.

Resources: EPA, Environmental Chemistry Branch EPA, PHYS ORG

Navigating the Silver Tsunami: The Aging Workforce in the Water Treatment Industry

Nate Talley

The water treatment industry, vital for ensuring the safety and availability of one of our most crucial resources, is facing a demographic challenge that could impact its future sustainability and efficiency. Known as the “Silver Tsunami,” the aging workforce in this sector poses significant hurdles for hiring qualified professionals in the coming years. This article delves into the implications of this trend and explores strategies to mitigate potential risks.

The water industry, like many other sectors, is experiencing a wave of retirements as baby boomers exit the workforce. A 2020 survey by the Water Environment Federation (WEF) indicated that a significant portion of the workforce is nearing retirement age. This scenario is set against a backdrop of increasing demand for water treatment services, driven by a growing population and heightened environmental concerns.

The departure of experienced workers means not just a reduction in numbers, but a substantial loss of institutional knowledge and specialized skills unique to water treatment. Newer employees must be trained not only in the latest technologies but also in the nuanced, site-specific knowledge that departing workers possess. Moreover, the industry is already grappling with challenges in attracting younger workers who often overlook this sector in favor of more high-profile technological fields.

Filling the void left by retiring professionals is not a straightforward task. The water treatment industry requires a combination of technical skills, regulatory knowledge, and practical experience. However, there is a noticeable gap in these skill sets among younger workers. Additionally, the industry has struggled to effectively market itself to millennials and Gen Z, who are more driven by career paths offering technological advancement and sustainable development opportunities.

To effectively navigate the challenges posed by the aging workforce in the water treatment industry, a multi-faceted approach towards future workforce development is essential. This includes investing in enhanced training programs that not only provide comprehensive technical knowledge but also facilitate mentorship and the transfer of invaluable insights from seasoned professionals to newcomers. Equally crucial is the collaboration with educational institutions, such as universities and technical schools, to develop curricula that align with the specific needs of the industry, thus creating a steady flow of graduates who are ready to tackle job responsibilities.

Additionally, there’s a pressing need to rebrand water treatment careers, highlighting them as not just vital and rewarding, but also as roles at the forefront of technological advancement and environmental sustainability. Leveraging modern technology, particularly virtual and augmented reality, in training methodologies can attract tech-savvy younger generations and make the learning process more efficient. Furthermore, implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives can enhance the sector’s appeal to a broader range of young professionals. Finally, offering competitive compensation, clear career pathways, and emphasizing the stability and long-term prospects in the water treatment sector are essential strategies to attract and retain the new generation of workers. These concerted efforts are pivotal in ensuring that the industry remains robust and capable of adapting to evolving challenges and innovations.

The aging workforce in the water treatment industry is a pressing issue that requires immediate and strategic action. By investing in training, collaborating with educational institutions, rebranding the industry, and embracing diversity and technology, we can ensure a steady influx of skilled professionals. These efforts will not only address the workforce gap but also propel the industry forward, adapting to new challenges and innovations in the field.

Citations: (1) Water Environment Federation. (2020). Workforce Survey Report.

Smart Water Technology: 5 Smart Water Management Solutions

Nate Talley

Smart water management solutions use data visibility to aid in the planning, development, and distribution of your wastewater operations and water usage. Evaluating your specific needs and requirements is key when selecting a water management software solution to optimize water resource management.

When selecting a smart water solution for real-time automated monitoring and reporting, look for a software platform that offers management apps and tools to help you and your team meet water management compliance requirements. And look for platforms that give you and your team visibility into real-time performance, organized reporting, auditing, centralized sampling, and compliance.

Here are some renowned approaches and technologies in the smart water management sector to assist your team in enhancing water distribution, minimizing leaks, and boosting overall system efficiency. These solutions also contribute to effective mapping and management of water networks.

Integrated Software Platforms: Some platforms offer a comprehensive suite of applications and tools designed for smart water management. These platforms cover various aspects including GIS mapping, asset management, IoT and remote monitoring, and real-time event management.
AI-Driven Water Management: There are advanced platforms utilizing AI to monitor and control the performance of water and wastewater infrastructure. These systems provide real-time data monitoring, predictive analytics, and automation, helping you optimize water distribution, reduce energy consumption, and improve operational efficiency.
Remote Monitoring Solutions: Certain solutions specialize in remote monitoring and control of wastewater networks. They provide end-to-end solutions and software platforms for managing data from wastewater networks and remote field assets. These platforms enable real-time data collection, integrated analytics, and automated reporting, aiding in water quality and flow rate monitoring while streamlining operations.
Acoustic-Based Monitoring: Acoustic monitoring solutions are available for water infrastructure, aiding professionals in leak detection, pipe condition assessment, and maintenance prioritization. By promptly identifying and addressing issues, these solutions enhance system reliability and minimize water loss.
Advanced Data Analytics Platforms: Various smart water solutions exist that include advanced monitoring and data analytics software. These platforms collect and analyze data from sensors, meters, and other sources, providing insights for better decision-making. They support water quality, pressure, and flow rate monitoring while optimizing resource allocation.

By exploring and adopting these smart water management strategies, your team can work towards a more efficient and reliable water distribution system.

Benefits of Smart Water Technology

Real-time data: Access to real-time data on water quality, flow rates, pressure, and other parameters, allowing professionals to monitor and respond promptly to anomalies or issues.

Improved efficiency: Automation and predictive analytics help optimize resource allocation, reduce energy consumption, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

Leak detection and prevention: Advanced monitoring software can detect leaks and help professionals prioritize repairs, minimizing water loss and reducing non-revenue water.

Asset management: Integrated asset management tools enable professionals to monitor the condition of infrastructure, prioritize maintenance activities, and extend the lifespan of water assets.

Enhanced decision-making: By utilizing data analytics and advanced reporting capabilities, professionals can make informed decisions to optimize processes, allocate resources efficiently, and improve water system performance.

Real-time water use measurements, efficient water use that minimizes non-revenue water costs, and sensible maintenance are just some of the benefits of smart water technology that you and you water facilities management team can realize when implementing smart water technology.

Addressing Saltwater Intrusion: A Technical Perspective

Nate Talley

Water treatment technicians, tasked with safeguarding the quality of our aquatic resources, are facing a subtle yet significant threat in the Mississippi River. Beyond the familiar challenges presented by the sea, an insidious issue arises: the progressive intrusion of saltwater into the delta.

Due to long lasting drought upstream, saltwater is moving up the Mississippi River. The denser saltwater flows underneath the less dense freshwater, creating a two-level flow pattern in a wedge-shaped formation. The saltwater wedge is pushed upstream by the tides and by the prevailing winds. The Mississippi River is primarily a freshwater river, so the intrusion of saltwater is likely to be highly detrimental for local drinking water and infrastructure.

Currently the Army Corps of Engineers has constructed underwater sills on the river at a number of locations, including near Head of Passes, Louisiana. Underwater sills are typically constructed of rock or concrete and are placed across the riverbed. They are designed to slow the upstream movement of saltwater by increasing the resistance to flow. The Corps also operates a number of reservoirs on the river that allow it to release fresh water to combat the intrusion, but these are not permanent solutions.

The good news is the distance required for saltwater to cause problems in the Mississippi’s infrastructural water intakes is quite far, likely tens to hundreds of miles. However, the salinity of the saltwater is a critical factor. Generally, freshwater sources like the Mississippi River have low salinity, so even a small increase in salt content due to seawater intrusion can have adverse effects on drinking water quality and the infrastructure that relies on freshwater for local towns and cities. Aside from drinking water and infrastructure concerns, saltwater intrusion can also have detrimental effects on the local ecosystems, aquatic life, and vegetation that depend on freshwater. Salt can also slowly corrode pipes, making this a potentially long-lasting infrastructural problem.

In addressing the challenge, both the government of Louisiana and the Army Corps are shifting their focus towards substantial initiatives. This includes the potential implementation of reverse osmosis units to extract salt from drinking water, the construction of a 55-foot-tall underwater levee to impede the encroachment of the saltwater wedge, and a rather bold strategy involving the transportation of millions of gallons of freshwater downstream to alleviate salt overload in water systems.

From maintaining reverse osmosis units to supervising the structural integrity of the proposed underwater levee and managing freshwater transportation logistics, the expertise of technicians is crucial. These expert contributions ensure the efficacy of these interventions and pave the way toward innovation, resilience, and safeguarding our communities against the nuanced threat of saltwater intrusion. Through strategic, targeted efforts, we can protect our water systems, maintaining their safety and functionality amidst this lurking challenge.

Joe Rogan Wades Into Fluoridated Water

Desirée Sykes

Few public figures bring controversy to otherwise mundane subjects more than Joe Rogan, host of the chart-topping podcast The Joe Rogan Experience, claiming 14.9 million subscribers. A recently released episode of his show touched on a subject most people would flee from had it come up in conversation at a party, lest they be hemorrhaged by boredom: municipal tap water. More specifically the use of fluoride in the vast majority of America’s drinking water.

In the podcast, released early September on his exclusive platform Spotify, Rogan questioned the need, and even the motive behind the use of fluoride in the general public’s main source of hydration. “There’s some real disputes about fluoride in the water” the ex-Fear Factor host remarked “Exposure to fluoride lowers your IQ… it literally makes you dumber. How much better is it than brushing your teeth? We’re forcing people to take care of their teeth and everybody else is going to lose IQ points?”

While he couches these statements with his customary “I’m not entirely informed on the matter” disclaimer, he brings up an issue that’s controversy spans decades.

For years fluoride in water has been igniting debates and inquiries into its efficacy, safety, and ethical implications. Dating back to the mid-20th century, the practice of adding fluoride to public water supplies aimed to enhance dental health, but its controversial nature raises serious questions concerning health risks, ethical considerations, and the overall effectiveness of this intervention.

Several studies have investigated the relationship between fluoride exposure, primarily from drinking water, and cognitive function or intelligence quotient (IQ). Worldwide research, and particularly studies conducted in regions with higher naturally occurring fluoride levels in water, has suggested a potential association between elevated fluoride exposure and lower IQ scores in children.

Within the realm of water treatment, proponents of fluoridation emphasize its potential to significantly reduce dental cavities and tooth decay, particularly in children. Esteemed organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) and the World Health Organization support it. But critics voice concerns regarding potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to elevated fluoride levels. Skepticism persists concerning the link between excess fluoride intake and health problems such as skeletal fluorosis, prompting a reevaluation of recommended fluoride levels for water treatment processes.

The debate surrounding water fluoridation hinges on a complex weighing of benefits and potential drawbacks. Critics argue that the practice of fluoridating water, despite its intended dental benefits, raises valid concerns regarding individual autonomy and consent. Adding fluoride to a communal water supply essentially amounts to a forced medical intervention affecting everyone, regardless of age, health condition, or informed choice. The lack of personalized dosage and potential overexposure, especially for vulnerable groups like infants and the elderly, is a worrisome aspect. Moreover, considering the availability of alternative fluoride sources such as toothpaste and mouth rinses, some question the necessity of a mass fluoridation approach. As research suggests potential links between fluoride exposure and cognitive health issues, skeptics emphasize the need for a cautious approach. In weighing these factors, they argue for a reconsideration of water fluoridation, advocating for individual agency, informed consent, and a tailored approach to dental health that respects individual rights and minimizes potential health risks.

As Rogan asks: Can’t you just clean your teeth?

Sources: The Joe Rogan Experience (contains explicit language),
Harvard.edu, PubMed, NIDCR.gov

Drinking Water Contamination Incidents: Is Your PR Team Ready?

Desirée Sykes

Most water treatment professionals are used to the day-to-day analysis of water and maintenance that comes with the job. Howbeit, not all are prepared for a drinking water contamination incident such as E.coli. Is your team ready to respond when an emergency strikes?

Unfortunately, this topic hits close to home for me. As a resident of Tyler and customer of TWU, I was quick to learn about a boil notice issued by the City of Tyler for E.coli contamination, and of course, was mildly horrified. The boil notice didn’t last long, though; the city lifted it the following day at 11 am. After talking with other residents and customers of TWU, to my surprise, this was not the first time the city has had water quality issues. Feeling concerned, I reached out to the City and asked if it was normal after E.coli detection in a water sample to only have a 24-hour boil notice for customers?

The City of Tyler released this statement:

“It is not normal for us to have a water sample test positive for E.coli. We take dozens of samples everyday at various points around the City. Those samples got to the North East Texas Public Heath Regional Laboratory in Tyler to be tested according to TCEQ requirements.

The boil water notice had to be issued as the result of a single routine sample site tested showing the presence of e. coli, followed by a repeat sample at the same site in Central Tyler showing the presence of total coliform. E. coli was only found in one sample site out of many tested.

Tyler water meets and exceeds all State and Federal standards. Our water system is safe.”

Famed environmental activist, Erin Brockovich, has long expressed concerns over the safety of the city’s water. In 2015, responding to another TWU water contamination incident, she posted on Facebook that the City was downplaying the incident. City officials were quick to respond to her post, “Our drinking water is the No. 1 priority of this department,” Assistant City Manager Susan Guthrie said. “We followed exactly what TCEQ requires us to do.”

No matter your opinion on the safety of Tyler’s water, the fact remains that the city was quick to respond in both situations. When disaster strikes, water facilities need to be prepared to react assuredly and quickly to ease customers’ minds. To avoid being caught unprepared, the EPA offers this guidance on how to react in situations like these. The City of Tyler followed the guidance of The Distribution System Contamination Response Procedure (DSCRP) outlined by the EPA, does your facility have a plan in place to do the same?

Sources: EPA.gov, City of Tyler, Tyler Morning Telegraph

Flood on the Water: What Increased Flooding Means for Water Treatment Facilities

Nate Talley

In recent years, water treatment professionals across the globe have faced an alarming surge in the frequency and severity of flooding events. These rising tides are causing significant challenges for wastewater treatment facilities. As the demand for effective and resilient wastewater management grows, it is crucial to understand the profound impact flooding has on these critical infrastructure components.

Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, torrential rainfall, and storm surges, have surged over the last decade. These events have made flooding an increasingly common occurrence in both coastal and inland regions. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States has experienced a 20% increase in heavy rainfall events over the last century, with the North East region seeing up to a 55% increase.

One of the most immediate and tangible effects of flooding on wastewater treatment facilities is damage to critical infrastructure. Floodwater can inundate treatment plants, causing electrical systems to short-circuit, damaging pumps and motors, and compromising the structural integrity of facilities. The repair and replacement costs can be astronomical, straining budgets and resources.

Flooding events can overwhelm treatment systems, leading to the release of partially treated or untreated wastewater into water bodies. This discharge can contain a cocktail of pollutants, including bacteria, chemicals, and nutrients, posing significant health and environmental risks. The contamination of water bodies can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases, harm aquatic ecosystems, and impact drinking water sources downstream.

Wastewater treatment plants often rely on a delicate balance of biological processes, chemical treatments, and mechanical components. Flooding can disrupt this delicate equilibrium, leading to operational failures. In some cases, plants may need to be shut down temporarily to prevent further damage, which can lead to service interruptions and reduced capacity during flood events.

As water treatment professionals grapple with the mounting challenges posed by flooding to wastewater treatment facilities, it is imperative to adopt proactive strategies and invest in resilient infrastructure. In doing so, we can safeguard public health, protect the environment, and ensure the continued provision of clean water for our communities. The collective efforts of the water treatment industry will play a pivotal role in addressing this critical issue.

Sources: Tampa Bay Times, Climate.gov

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New Study Finds PFAS Contamination Threatens Rural Latinx Communities

Breakthrough in Microplastics Monitoring: Affordable and Efficient Detection for Water Treatment Plants

Next-Gen Water Treatment: Cutting-Edge Tech for a PFA-Proof Plant

Gear Up for PFAS: New EPA Limits Reshape Your Treatment Landscape

Six Months Left to Comply with Lead and Copper Rule Revisions

White House Announces Nearly $6 Billion for Water Infrastructure

Green Desalination

New AI Systems Increase Efficiency in Identifying Contaminants

Navigating the Silver Tsunami: The Aging Workforce in the Water Treatment Industry

Smart Water Technology: 5 Smart Water Management Solutions

Benefits of Smart Water Technology

Addressing Saltwater Intrusion: A Technical Perspective

Joe Rogan Wades Into Fluoridated Water

Drinking Water Contamination Incidents: Is Your PR Team Ready?

Flood on the Water: What Increased Flooding Means for Water Treatment Facilities