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The Pipeline Understanding Lead and Copper Regulations In late 2021 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) to strengthen the current rule from 1991 to effectively reduce lead and copper levels in drinking water. The revisions focus on minimizing exposure to lead and copper by requiring more stringent sampling, compiling an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs) and a plan so that these could be prioritized, and lastly having strong public outreach to inform customers of these efforts. Columbia Water put together a task force in late 2021 comprised of many groups in our organization so that these requirements are met by October 16, 2024. This figure shows what type of information we need to capture in our inventory. The materials for both the city side and customer side of the service line must be known and documented and provided to S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control. Non-lead materials can range from galvanized pipe, plastic to copper. While we capture and maintain this information for many of our lines, from projects or work done at different sites, many of these are unknown materials. Although our service lines are non-lead, we still need to collect information on the unknowns. To-date, we are down to 13,000 from 36,000 and so far, have not encountered LSLs, we have however located goosenecks. Goosenecks are flexible connectors made of lead, these are not accounted for as LSLs, but they are tracked, removed, and will be sampled in preparation for the LCRR to take effect. Furthermore, the EPA plans to further strengthen this rule by setting forth LCR improvements or LCRI. These will possibly strengthen the requirements we will have to meet to follow Safe Drinking Water Standards.
Service line representation from EPA factsheet.
Examples of pipe materials.
Columbia Water put together a task force in late 2021 comprised of many groups in our organization so that these requirements are met by October 16, 2024.
www.columbiascwater.net | 803-545-3300 | 1136 Washington Street – Columbia, SC 29201
Columbia Water GIS Relocates to Washington Square Columbia Water’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) team led by Stewart Hall recently relocated from the Clean Water 2020 (CW2020) program office to the City of Columbia’s offices at Washington Square. Staff was originally a GIS Technician and a GIS Manager under the Sewer Mapping Plan (SMP), the City’s effort to establish the current wastewater collection and transmission system (WCTS) asset data and electronic systems to be used with other programs required in the Consent Decree (CD). However, Columbia Water proactively expanded GIS staffing to one Manager and six Technicians. For 9 years the GIS team was embedded in CW2020 to work directly with program leads on CD goals. The CD requires improvement to the City’s WCTS GIS data sets, mapping standards, and integration with other systems such as Cityworks. Since implementation of the CD began, the GIS team has also expanded duties to improve water and stormwater GIS standards. The team recently completed their required goals of accurately mapping the WCTS system and continue to improve water and stormwater GIS accuracy through survey, inspection, and integration with other information systems.
Mapping Technician Manager Stewart Hall has been with the City of Columbia for 11 years. Previously with the City’s IT GIS Department, Hall transitioned to his current role managing the Columbia Water GIS team in 2019. Through meticulous recruitment, Hall has brought together a team of mapping technicians from various backgrounds to support the City’s GIS needs. Mapping Technician Lead Matt Naglak has a BS
from the University of Arkansas, a PhD in Digital Archaeology from the University of Michigan, and over 10 years’ experience in archaeological and digital mapping projects. Senior Mapping Technician Martin Rivas has extensive experience with wastewater assessment in both the private and public sectors. The most recent additions are Mapping Technician Senior Felix Mitchell and Mapping Technicians Michael Wagner and Hannah Harp. All three are graduates from the University of South Carolina (USC). Mitchell’s time at USC was spent developing skills through several GIS-related positions. Harp graduated with leadership distinction with a degree in Marine Science. Wagner brings along a year of field experience with Water Maintenance along with a BA in Environmental Studies. The GIS team maintains a database for the City of Columbia that includes digital mapping layers for the WCTS (e.g., gravity mains and manholes), Water Distribution, (e.g., water mains and laterals, and fire hydrants), and Stormwater Collection (e.g., stormwater pipes, channels, catch basins) as well as mapping layers and tables used for detailed analysis on areas such as capacity planning, sanitary sewer overflows, capital improvement projects, asset risk, and water service line inventory. The database is used citywide to provide accurate data to citizens, staff, maintenance crews, leadership, and decision makers. Columbia Water crews and contractors may link to the data while working in the field to access info on prior repairs or locate system assets.
Demystifying Compost You might wonder, “What is compost?” or ask, “Why should I consider composting?” Let us help explain what it is and the benefits of composting. Composting is a process that converts organic materials (i.e., wasted food scraps and yard debris) into a nutrient-rich soil amendment or mulch through natural decomposition. Macro organisms like worms and insects and microorganisms like bacteria and fungi feed on our waste materials and do all the hard work to create a dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling material known as compost. Composting is nature’s way of recycling. By composting, you sustainably reduce the amount of trash you send to the landfill or incinerators. In turn, you prevent additional greenhouse gases being sent into the atmosphere. Not only does it build healthier soil, prevent erosion, and help you conserve water, but it also improves plant growth in your garden and yard. And the big bonus you don’t want to miss is it can save you money by reducing your use of fertilizer and pesticides and decreases the chance of excess chemicals getting into our water. In a few easy steps you can use a bin, bucket, or even a pile to start. Combine two parts browns to every one part green,
Composting bin.
keep things moist, and occasionally turn the materials to add air. Browns and greens are easily identified by their name. Browns include things like dry leaves and yard trimmings (brown in color) and greens are things like food scraps and grass clippings (greener in color). Something to always remember is to never add meat, dairy, or greasy foods to your pile. These will attract unwanted pests. As waste decomposes, you reap the benefits. Add finished compost to your soil to improve the health of your soil, help the soil retain moisture and nutrients, attract beneficial organisms to the soil, and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers. Now don’t you want to get out there and compost? The Pipeline | 2
Rain Barrel Benefits
Rain barrel.
There are lots of ways rain barrels are beneficial, not only to those that have them, but to our entire community. Rain barrels are typically placed near a convenient downspout to capture water coming off your roof. When you reduce the runoff from your roof, it can reduce erosion in your yard. Collecting roof runoff
in rain barrels reduces the amount of water that flows from your property. Reducing excessive stormwater also helps decrease flooding, and sewer backups. And keeps pollutants from flowing into our creeks and rivers. Water gathered in a rain barrel can be used on lawns, gardens, or indoor plants. It’s a great way to conserve water and it’s
free to use in your landscape. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates a rain barrel saves the average homeowner up to 1,300 gallons of water each year. That’s 1,300 gallons that won’t show up on your water bill!
josalynnCLUMBIA Smith Raigan Muldrow MEET WATER MEET CLUMBIA WATER How long have you been with the City of Columbia and what do you do? I am an Administrative Manager for City of Columbia with 25 years of service, where I oversee a team that is dedicated to the daily operations of Columbia Water. What is something interesting about you that we wouldn’t learn from your work bio? I own a business known as Sensational Baskets where they are customized to the individual’s needs. What’s the best experience you’ve had working for the City of Columbia? The best experience I have is working in Cityworks on a daily basis helping to create success that allows better service to our customers. Roller Coaster or Ferris Wheel, and why? Roller Coaster, because they help you to face fears that you may have and provide a positive outcome for the future.
KUDOS
How long have you been with the City of Columbia and what do you do? I have been with the City of Columbia for a little over a year now. I work in Customer Care where I assist our COC customers with any issues, questions, or concerns pertaining to water and sewer services we provide. What are some interesting things about you that we wouldn’t learn from your work bio? The most interesting thing about me I’d say would be my love for concerts. I love going to concerts and festivals for any of my favorite artists. I enjoy hearing the music live whether it’s sunny or storming, I’d show up for my favorite celebrities! What’s the best experience you’ve had working for the City of Columbia? The best experience has been working under Ms. Tiffany, she has been a great boss and so supportive to us and our department. It makes it easier coming to work when you are working with someone who is passionate about the same work as you are! Vintage or brand new, and why? Vintage! The more worn, the better! I love to see archive fashion pieces that are rare and make people say “Wow, I haven’t seen those since the 2000s!”
During a busy afternoon at 3000 Harden Street, we received kudos from Mr. Reed. He wanted to commend Cynthia Chen for doing an excellent job addressing his concerns with his account. He also stated that Cynthia’s customer service skills are top tier and she reassured him by saying “let me see what I can do.” Overall, Mr. Reed was grateful for the wonderful customer service despite how busy we were. Mrs. Fore wanted to let us know how she was helped by Me’lisa Smith. She stated her day started off rough, but after speaking with Me’lisa she had a brighter outlook. And Me’lisa provided excellent customer service! She wants to give her flowers. Ms. Higgins wanted to give a shout out to Michael Cook for the great customer service he provided. She stated he was able to assist her in getting the business bill paid without any interruption of services. She was very pleased with his assistance and wanted to give a shout out to his superiors as well for a job well done. The Pipeline | 3
Water Distribution and Maintenance Employee Name
Status Change
Effective Date
Jared Baskett
Passed Water Distribution Level D Exam
7/6/2023
Cedric Reddick
Obtained Class A CDL
7/25/2023
Tyler Burgess
Obtained Class A CDL
7/26/2023
Trenton Bryan
Obtained Class A CDL Permit
8/11/2023
Storm Vanschaick
Obtained Class A CDL Permit
8/26/2023
AWARDS
Columbia Water has so many dedicated, hard-working employees and we are extremely proud to announce the following award winners:
Customer Care
Customer Care Call Center Employee of the Month (July 2023) Raigan Muldrow “Raigan is dependable and efficient. She has volunteered to assist when extra help was needed in the call center. Her job knowledge (to include skills, understanding of work, and research abilities) proves that she is ready and willing to assist our customers. She displays a helpful and positive attitude towards superiors and co-workers and is a great team player.” – Ashleigh McLaughlin, Customer Care Supervisor Field Services Employee of the Month (July 2023) Edwin Cheeseboro
Wastewater Management Employee of the Quarter (Q2/July 2023) Solomon Tucker
Wastewater Treatment Plant 20 Years of Service (WWTP Operator) Jan Janikowski 20 Years of Service (WWTP Operator) Quincey Williams 5 Years of Service (WWTP Admin Specialist) Nancy Gonzalez 5 Years of Service (WW Compliance Admin Specialist) Soneika Santiago 5 Years of Service (WW Compliance Technician) Timothy Monroe
“Edwin has great attendance, is a leader and team player. He goes above and beyond to ensure success in our department.” – Chris Miller, Customer Services Field Supervisor
Water Distribution & Maintenance
Raigan Muldrow
Edwin Cheeseboro
Quincey Williams
Employee of the Quarter (Q2/July 2023) Willie Doctor
Water Meter Reading & Compliance Employee of the Quarter (Q2/July 2023) Stanley Caughman
Storytellers & Shutterbugs
Share photos and worksite tales with our community through The Pipeline! We’re always looking for original ideas, timely topics, and project pics. To submit your articles or ideas, please contact us at ColumbiaWater@columbiasc.gov.
Soneika Santigo
Timothy Monroe
Columbia Water
1136 Washington Street, Columbia, SC 29201 www.columbiascwater.net Ph: 803-545-3300
@ColumbiaSCWater The Pipeline | 4
