Sunday, December 22, 2024

Free Webinar: Real-Time Monitoring of Critical Flood Control Structures 

Calling all water treatment and flood mitigation professionals! On June 27, a free webinar presented by Stormwater University will delve into the latest advancements in real-time monitoring for critical flood control structures like dams and levees. 

Why Attend? 

Traditional flood prediction methods are constantly evolving, and this webinar will equip you with the knowledge to stay ahead of the curve. Here’s what you’ll gain: 

  • Discover cutting-edge techniques: Learn how real-time data collection and processing are revolutionizing how we monitor the health of flood control assets. 
  • Harness the power of data: Explore how machine learning and data analytics are used to predict conditions that could put these structures at risk. 
  • Make informed decisions faster: See how real-time monitoring integrates with flood prediction services, creating a feedback loop for proactive risk management. 
  • Earn continuing education credits: This webinar offers 0.1 CEU or 1.0 PDH credit. 

Presented by an Industry Expert 

The webinar will be led by Curtis Smith, a Professional Engineer with extensive experience in flood risk management and levee data analysis. Mr. Smith leverages his expertise in cloud computing, statistics, and computer science to develop efficient solutions for floodplain management. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and stay at the forefront of flood control and water monitoring advancements. Register for the free webinar at the event website

The Silent Threat in Our Pipes: Getting Started with Lead Service Line Replacement 

For many water treatment professionals, the focus lies on what goes into the treatment plant, not necessarily what comes out the other side. But aging infrastructure within city limits can pose a hidden danger: lead service lines. These lead pipes, once a common material, can leach lead into drinking water, causing serious health problems, especially for children and pregnant women. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an estimated 9.2 million lead service lines (LSLs) serve water to properties in communities across the United States. In order to meet the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of replacing 100% of LSLs, here’s a proactive approach to conducting lead service line replacement (LSLR) and tackling the silent threat in our drinking water. 

Prioritize Lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement: 

A crucial first step is creating a comprehensive map of lead service lines within your city. Utilize public records, ground penetrating radar, and resident surveys to identify these potential hazards.  Develop a data-driven plan for lead service line replacement, prioritizing high-risk areas and vulnerable populations. 

Grant Opportunities and Public-Private Partnerships: 

Replacing lead service lines can be a significant financial burden. Explore federal and state grants specifically dedicated to lead service line replacement programs. Additionally, consider public-private partnerships with local businesses or foundations to share the costs and expedite the process. 

Community Outreach and Education: 

Educate residents about the dangers of lead in drinking water and how to identify lead service lines in their homes. Provide clear and transparent information on the replacement process, financial assistance programs, and steps to minimize lead exposure while lead lines are still present. 

Lead service lines are a public health concern that demands immediate action. By prioritizing inventory and replacement, exploring funding opportunities, and educating the community, water treatment professionals can play a critical role in safeguarding the health of U.S. citizens. Let’s work together to ensure every tap delivers lead-free, clean water. 

For more information and financial resources for tackling your city’s LSLR, visit the EPA’s website

SOURCE: EPA, Whitehouse.gov 

Six Months Left to Comply with Lead and Copper Rule Revisions

Copper Sheets

Water utilities are on a tight deadline as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prepares to enforce the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) by October 16, 2024. These revisions are designed to ensure the safety of drinking water and reduce lead exposure in communities across the United States. With six months left, it’s crucial to understand the key requirements and take necessary steps to comply with the rule. The LCRR builds on the original Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), established in 1991 to control the presence of lead and copper in drinking water.

The updated version, released in 2022, introduces significant changes aimed at better protecting communities from lead contamination. These changes were prompted, in part, by the Flint water crisis, where thousands of residents were exposed to lead poisoning from April 2014 to October 2015. The LCRR includes stricter requirements, expanded testing protocols, and mandatory lead service line replacement for many water systems.

Under the LCRR, public water systems must submit a comprehensive inventory of service line materials, identifying lead lines, galvanized lines requiring replacement, and unknown materials by the compliance deadline. This inventory is a critical step toward meeting regulatory requirements and mitigating lead exposure. The guidance provided by the EPA emphasizes the importance of transparency and communication with the public regarding the location and condition of lead service lines.

Additionally, the LCRR introduces new public notification requirements. In the event of a Lead Action Level exceedance, communitywide public notification must occur within 24 hours. This requirement underscores the urgency of addressing lead contamination and maintaining public trust. Stephen Estes-Smargiassi, chair of the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Lead and Copper Rule Advisory Committee, advises water utilities to proactively engage with public officials, media, and other stakeholders before starting the sampling process to avoid surprises and ensure clear communication.

The EPA has released several resources to help water systems comply with the LCRR. The Guidance for Developing and Maintaining a Service Line Inventory provides best practices, a template for creating inventories, and case studies to assist water systems in meeting the October 16 deadline. The Small Entity Compliance Guide, released in June 2023, is tailored to support small community and non-transient non-community water systems. Additionally, the EPA has hosted webinars to educate professionals on the revised rule and funding opportunities through programs like the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

With six months remaining, water treatment professionals should focus on several key actions to ensure compliance with the LCRR:

1.       Develop a Comprehensive Service Line Inventory: This step involves identifying all lead and galvanized lines and creating a plan for replacement. The inventory must be submitted by October 16, 2024.

2.       Communicate with Stakeholders: Proactive communication with public officials, health departments, and community members is essential. Ensure that everyone is aware of the new requirements and the steps being taken to comply with the LCRR.

3.       Prepare for Public Notification Requirements: Establish a process for communitywide public notification within 24 hours of a Lead Action Level exceedance. This requires coordination with media outlets, public officials, and other stakeholders.

4.       Stay Informed and Utilize Available Resources: The EPA provides extensive guidance and resources to support compliance efforts. Take advantage of webinars, templates, and other materials to ensure compliance.

The clock is ticking, so it’s crucial to act now to ensure compliance by October 16, 2024.

Resources:
AWWA
EPA
OpenGov

Carbon-Based Purification and Advanced Disinfection in Modern Water Treatment

Water treatment plant

In the realm of modern water treatment, the integration of carbon-based purification and disinfection solutions plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and quality of water supplies. These technologies, essential for both municipal and industrial applications, have evolved to address a range of contaminants, including organic compounds, pathogens, and chemical pollutants. Carbon-based purification, primarily through activated carbon filters, is a cornerstone in water treatment processes. Activated carbon is renowned for its exceptional adsorption properties, owing to its high surface area and porous structure. This makes it highly effective at removing organic compounds, chlorine, and chloramines from water, substances that often contribute to taste, odor, and color issues.

The process involves trapping contaminants in the pore structure of the carbon substrate, effectively removing them from the water supply. The versatility of activated carbon extends to its ability to tackle a broad spectrum of contaminants, ranging from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and pesticides to endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Its application is critical in preventing these substances from compromising water quality and posing health risks to consumers. Moreover, activated carbon filtration serves as a crucial step in the multi-barrier approach to water treatment, providing an additional layer of protection by enhancing the removal of contaminants that may escape other treatment processes.

Parallel to purification, water disinfection is an equally critical component, ensuring the inactivation or elimination of pathogenic microorganisms. While chlorination has been traditionally dominant, alternative disinfection methods have gained traction, particularly where by-product formation or residual disinfectants pose concerns. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), which often involve the generation of highly reactive radicals, stand out for their effectiveness in degrading a wide array of contaminants, including those resistant to conventional treatments.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is another powerful disinfection method, offering the advantage of neutralizing bacteria, viruses, and protozoa without the addition of chemicals that could form harmful by-products or alter the water’s taste and odor. When combined with hydrogen peroxide, UV radiation can lead to hydroxyl radicals’ formation, further enhancing its oxidative capacity to break down complex pollutants, offering a robust solution to emerging contaminants.

Innovations in carbon-based technologies and disinfection methods are continuously emerging, reflecting the water treatment industry’s adaptability and commitment to safeguarding public health. The development of more efficient activated carbon forms, including granular and powdered variants, and the integration of nanotechnology, exemplify the ongoing advancements aimed at enhancing contaminant removal efficiency and operational effectiveness.

As the water treatment landscape evolves, so does the importance of staying abreast of the latest technologies and practices. Water treatment professionals are tasked with not only implementing these solutions but also ensuring they are optimized to meet the ever-changing regulatory standards and public health goals.

Carbon-based purification and advanced disinfection solutions are integral to modern water treatment strategies. Their continued development and refinement are vital in responding to the complex challenges posed by a diverse range of waterborne contaminants, thereby ensuring the delivery of safe, clean, and reliable water supplies to communities worldwide.

Resources: EPA, The Water Research Foundation, World Health Organization

New AI Systems Increase Efficiency in Identifying Contaminants

Engineer with Ai

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.  

ResourcesEPAEnvironmental Chemistry Branch EPAPHYS ORG

Privatization in Water Treatment

Privatized Water Treatment Facility

Water Treatment is going through a radical shift towards developing more environmentally resilient technologies from both public-private partnerships and venture capital. After all, where the public sector lacks, private industry can often thrive. But is that necessarily a good thing?

Privatization introduces a competitive market environment. Private firms invest in more cost-effective and innovative technologies, passing on the benefits to consumers through improved services at competitive prices. Additionally, privatization will alleviate the financial burden on some strained public entities, allowing them to redirect resources to other critical areas such as infrastructure upkeep. This shift not only promotes economic growth but also enhances the quality of water treatment services equitably for everyone. 

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) blend the strengths of both sectors, offering an effective model for water treatment advancements. These partnerships allow for leveraging private sector investments and expertise while maintaining public oversight and regulation. PPPs often lead to better resource allocation, operational efficiency, and service delivery in water treatment. The economic advantage of such collaborations is significant, as they enable the implementation of high-cost infrastructure projects without placing undue financial strain on public funds. 

Venture capital plays a pivotal role in driving innovation in the water treatment sector as well. By funding start-ups and new technologies, VCs promote a culture of innovation, necessary for developing advanced, cost-effective treatment solutions. These investments often lead to the development of breakthrough technologies that can significantly reduce operational costs and improve efficiency for specialists worldwide. 

One of the standout benefits of privatization in water treatment is how it transforms operations to be more effective and efficient. Private companies, driven by a commitment to high performance, often surpass the traditional methods of public sector organizations by adopting the latest technologies and smarter management practices. This modern approach usually leads to lower operational costs, more responsible use of resources, and less waste. This heightened efficiency doesn’t just help the companies; it directly benefits the customers they serve and plays a key role in building a more economically sustainable future for water treatment. 

AI and Water Treatment

AI potential in water

Most people by now are familiar with artificial intelligence writing and data analysis tools like ChatGPT, even if they haven’t used it themselves, but AI is also making a splash in industrial jobs as well. You may be surprised to know that the integration of AI into water treatment facilities is already transforming the industry. No longer a fictitious foe for a science fiction plot, AI now promises to provide solutions to some of the most pressing challenges faced by water treatment professionals today. 

AI has already made significant inroads into daily operations within the water treatment industry. One of the most prominent applications is in the optimization of treatment processes. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast datasets, identifying patterns that human operators might miss. This capability allows for the adjustment of chemical dosing in real-time, minimizing waste and improving treatment efficacy. 

Moreover, AI is instrumental in predictive maintenance. By monitoring the performance data from equipment, AI can predict when a pump might fail or when a filter needs replacement before it causes a system-wide issue. This not only prevents downtime but also extends the lifespan of critical infrastructure. 

AI’s role in monitoring water quality is perhaps one of its most crucial applications. Sophisticated sensors coupled with AI algorithms are being used to detect contaminants at levels previously undetectable. This technology provides an unprecedented level of detail about water composition, enabling treatment plants to respond to issues swiftly and effectively.As AI technology advances, its potential applications within water treatment continue to grow. One emerging area is the use of AI in managing water distribution networks. AI systems can optimize the flow of water throughout these networks, reducing energy consumption and ensuring that water pressure remains consistent across all service areas. 

Another exciting development is the use of AI-driven robotics for underwater inspections and repairs. These AI-assisted robots can perform tasks in environments that are hazardous to human divers, such as in toxic water conditions or in areas with restricted access, largely reducing the risks of human operators in emergency scenarios. Furthermore, AI is being leveraged to tackle the global issue of water scarcity. Through advanced data analytics, AI helps in water loss management by detecting leaks and anomalies in the system that human surveillance might not capture. 

While the benefits are substantial, integrating AI into water treatment systems is not without its challenges. One concern that has reared its head in recent months is cybersecurity. As water treatment plants become more connected, the potential for cyberattacks increases. Ensuring that AI systems are secure from such threats is paramount. Another consideration is the fiscal cost. While AI can save money in the long run, the initial investment can be draining to smaller operations.  

Additionally, there is a need for skilled personnel who can manage and interpret AI systems. This necessitates ongoing education and training for water treatment professionals to keep pace with technological advancements. 

In the water treatment industry, artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic concept; it’s a present-day reality. With its ability to analyze and learn from data, AI is helping professionals make smarter decisions, reduce costs, and improve water quality. As the technology continues to evolve, so will its applications, offering new tools to address the growing demand for clean and safe water worldwide AI offers a wellspring of opportunities for water treatment professionals.  

Sources: WSPNatureScience DirectAuto Desk

Cybersecurity: Israeli-made Components Become a Target for Hackers

Hackers, Cyber Attack

The critical importance of cybersecurity in water treatment facilities has come into sharp focus lately with a slew of attacks in just a few weeks. Worldwide there have been multiple instances of cyberattacks targeting these essential services, underscoring the need for enhanced digital defenses for our most precious resources. These incidents not only highlight the vulnerabilities of water systems to cyber threats but also the evolving nature of these digital threats. 

Just days ago on December 7th, a water treatment plant in the Irish city of Erris faced a cyberattack that left about 180 residences without water for two days. This attack was linked to the use of equipment from Israeli companies, targeted by a group believed to be from Iran called CyberAv3ngers. In the U.S., the Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, also experienced a breach by this group, which managed to control a device at a remote water station. 
 
The CyberAv3ngers, a group believed to be linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is engaging in cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, including water treatment facilities, as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. Their actions appear to be motivated by the desire to undermine Israel, by targeting entities using Israeli-made equipment. It appears these attacks are not just about causing immediate disruption but are also part of a larger messaging effort to influence international perceptions and exert geopolitical pressure.  

These incidents underscore the challenges water treatment facilities face in securing critical infrastructure. The CyberAv3ngers’ attacks, though not known for their sophistication, demonstrate the vulnerability of facilities that neglect basic security measures. Furthermore, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been scrutinized for insufficient resources and personnel to adequately address these cybersecurity challenges. 

The Biden administration announced plans to improve the digital defenses of public water systems earlier this year, with a focus on industry accountability. This includes novel rules placing more responsibility for securing water facilities at the state level. However, experts like Mark Montgomery, former executive director of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, criticize these measures as inadequate, pointing out that both the EPA and states lack the necessary resources. The water treatment industry also expressed concerns, with the American Water Works Association highlighting practical problems in the government’s approach. 

The incidents revealed technical vulnerabilities, such as poor security practices and outdated software. For example, the breach in Pennsylvania exploited poor security practices, including an exposed device to the internet and weak password protocols. Cybersecurity experts recommend not only patching these vulnerabilities but also adopting robust security measures like multi-factor authentication and regular security audits. In this digital age, cybersecurity is an integral component of water treatment operations. Facilities must stay abreast of the latest threats and ensure that their systems are fortified against potential breaches. This includes regular updates to security protocols, employee training in cybersecurity best practices, and collaboration with government agencies for guidance and support. 

The recent cyberattacks on water treatment plants in Ireland and the U.S. serve as a wake-up call for the industry. As cyber threats evolve, so must the strategies to combat them. This requires a concerted effort from both the government and the water treatment industry to invest in stronger cybersecurity measures, enhance employee training, and develop more resilient infrastructure. The safety and reliability of water services depend on the industry’s ability to adapt and respond to these digital threats effectively. 

Sources: CyberScoopReutersWestern People

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

Senior Water Analyst

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. 

Addressing Saltwater Intrusion: A Technical Perspective

Salt Water Intrusive

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.