Business Office: 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711
Web: www.fwrj.com
General Manager: Michael Delaney
Editor: Rick Harmon
Graphic Design Manager: Patrick Delaney
Mailing Coordinator: Buena Vista Publishing
Published by BUENA VISTA PUBLISHING for Florida Water Resources Journal Inc.
President: Richard Anderson (FSAWWA) Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority
Vice President: Joe Paterniti (FWEA) Clay County Utility Authority
Treasurer: Rim Bishop (FWPCOA) Seacoast Utility Authority
Secretary: Rim Bishop (FWPCOA) Seacoast Utility Authority
Moving?
The Post Office will not forward your magazine. Do not count on getting the Journal unless you notify us directly of address changes by the 15th of the month preceding the month of issue. Please do not telephone address changes. Email changes to changes@fwrj.com or mail to Florida Water Resources Journal, 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711
Membership Questions
FSAWWA: Casey Cumiskey – 407-979-4806 or Casey@fsawwa.org
FWEA: Laura Cooley, 407-574-3318, admin@fwea.org
FWPCOA: Darin Bishop – 561-840-0340
Training Questions
FSAWWA: Donna Metherall – 407-979-4805 or Donna@fsawwa.org
FWPCOA: Shirley Reaves – 321-383-9690
For Other Information
FDEP Operator Certification: Ron McCulley – 850-245-7500
FSAWWA: Kim Kowalski – (407) 979-4814
Florida Water Resources Conference: 267-884-6292
FWPCOA Operators Helping Operators: John Lang – 772-559-0722, oho@fwpcoa.org
6 OceanScore Appointed Administrator of the Environmental Ship Index
10 Energy Efficiency in the Florida Water and Wastewater Industry: Challenges, Strategies, Trends, and Opportunities for Utilities
16 Celebrate 2026 National Drinking Water Week!
17 2026 State of the Florida Water Industry Survey
26 AWWA Water Equation and WE Walk: Meet the People Who Power These Programs— Jay Madigan
42 Contractors Roundup: FSAWWA Fall Conference Recap: Workshop on Career Paths in Collaborative Delivery
52 Last Chance to Submit PFAS Settlement Claims Approaches in 2026—Ken Sansone and Kyla Tengdin
60 The Secrets of Visionary Leaders: Creating Cultures That Invite Possibility—Susan Robertson
62 Organizations Celebrate Completion of Picayune Strand Restoration Project
65 News Beat
Technical Articles
34 Engineering Solutions for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: A Critical Review of Separation and Destruction Technologies— Ram Prasad
54 Managing Water Systems Under Climate Uncertainty: What Will the Future Hold?— Robert G. Maliva and Scott Manahan
Education and Training
18 Florida Water Resources Conference
25
32
43
FWPCOA Region 4 Short School
CEU Challenge
FSAWWA We Walk Event
46 AWWA Celebrates Women’s History Month
47
48
49
50
59
FSAWWA Fall Conference Call for Papers
FSAWWA Top Ops Competition
FSAWWA Roy Likins Scholarship
FSAWWA Fall Conference and Centennial Gala Sponsorships
FWPCOA Training Calendar
Columns
8 FWEA Focus—Joan Fernandez
30 Let’s Talk Safety: Take a Load Off: Tips for Safe Lifting
38 Reader Profile—Larry Miller
40 Speaking Out—Tyler Tedcastle
44 C Factor—Kevin G. Shropshire
45 Test Yourself—Charles Lee Martin Jr.
Departments
64 Classifieds
66 Display Advertiser Index
ON THE COVER: Pasco County Southeast Wastewater Treatment Plant in Zephyrhills. The scope of the improvements and expansion at the plant includes comprehensive upgrades to the plant’s operating systems to expand treatment capacity from 3 to 6 mgd while enhancing energy efficiency and advancing environmental stewardship. Improvements include construction of a new headworks facility, a new secondary clarifier and retrofit of existing clarifiers, new treatment basins with process conversion, and installation of a high-efficiency diffuser system and energyoptimized blowers and pumps. The project also includes new chlorine contact chambers and a high-service pump station, a new dewatering facility, and all associated piping, electrical, supervisory control and data acquisition, and site improvements. System enhancements are designed to reduce overall energy consumption, improve process performance, and minimize environmental impact through optimized aeration control, efficient equipment selection, and modernized automation that supports sustainable and resilient plant operations. (photo: Fernando Fernandez Jr.)
As Florida continues to experience record growth, the Floridians First budget makes critical investments to protect and restore the state’s environment. As proposed, the Fiscal Year 202627 Budget invests over $1.4 billion in Everglades restoration and water quality improvements that will bring the combined investment under Gov. Ron DeSantis to nearly $9.5 billion.
Accelerating the Completion of Everglades Restoration Projects
The budget earmarks $810 million to accelerate and deliver Everglades restoration projects to completion five years ahead of schedule, including $681 million in completion of Everglades restoration projects, $586 million of which will fully fund the remaining state-funded portions of the Central Everglades Planning Project to clean, store, and convey water through the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir and the Blue Shanty Flow-Way.
The budget also provides $50 million for projects to support the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie estuaries and $79 million for the Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Program.
Maintaining Everglades Investments
As a result of Florida’s debt reduction program, the budget repurposes $80 million in existing Land Acquisition Trust Fund allocations that are no longer needed for debt service and to-be-completed projects to support the longterm maintenance of capital projects within the South Florida Water Management District Basin. Additional investments in Florida’s water resources includes $408 million for targeted water quality improvements to achieve meaningful nutrient reductions in key waterbodies, including:
S $250 million for the Water Quality Improvement Grant Program, including prioritization of the Indian River Lagoon and Biscayne Bay.
S $100 million for the Lower Kissimmee Basin Stormwater Treatment Area Project to reduce the levels of nutrients in water flowing from the Kissimmee River into Lake Okeechobee.
S $50 million to accelerate projects to meet scientific nutrient reduction goals.
Additional investments in Florida’s water resources include:
S $65 million to combat harmful algal blooms, including blue-green algae and red tide, strengthening Florida’s capacity to respond to blooms and advance long-term water quality improvements.
S $60 million to advance alternative water supply, ensuring Florida plans ahead to meet future water demands while protecting and restoring water resources.
S $50 million to restore and preserve Florida’s world-renowned springs, supporting both water quality improvements and spring flow restoration.
Protecting Florida’s Conservation Lands and Waterways
The 2026-27 budget includes $150 million to protect Florida’s conservation lands through one-time investments and by restoring $65 million in recurring funding to Florida Forever, thanks to the accelerated debt repayment effort, freeing up funding in the Land Acquisition Trust Fund. Additional investments include $70 million in state park maintenance and resource management. Gov. DeSantis also included pay increases for Florida park service rangers and park personnel.
Strengthening Florida’s Shorelines
Protecting Florida’s 1,300 miles of coastline is important for Florida’s economy and quality of life. The budget recommends an additional $75 million in beach nourishment funding to continue addressing Florida’s critically eroded shorelines. The budget invests an additional $208 million in the Resilient Florida Program, including $150 million for implementation of statewide projects that protect coastal and inland communities from flooding and hurricanes, and $52 million for design and planning projects, as well as coral reef protection.
Learn more about Florida’s environmental efforts at ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov. S
OceanScore Appointed Administrator of Environmental Ship Index
The International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) has announced that OceanScore has been mandated as the administrator of the Environmental Ship Index (ESI), effective January 2026.
The ESI is a voluntary, industry-led environmental performance scheme that enables ports to incentivize ships demonstrating performance beyond applicable regulatory requirements. Participating ship owners and operators benefit from incentives, such as port fee reductions, based on independently assessed environmental criteria.
For ports, ESI provides a consistent and independent framework to recognize environmental stewardship, support incentive schemes, and demonstrate sustainability commitments beyond their direct Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
The scheme is supported by more than 70 ports and maritime administrations worldwide, with over 6,500 vessels currently registered, making ESI the most widely adopted environmental incentive framework in global shipping. The index was created by major ports in cooperation with IAPH and has been fully integrated into its governance structure since 2020.
OceanScore will work in close coordination with IAPH, and the ESI board and its Technical Advisory Group, to ensure continuity, transparency and consistent application of the ESI framework.
“We are excited to work in partnership with our new administrator OceanScore to ensure ESI remains the global benchmark for incentivizing the environmental performance of vessels,” remarked IAPH managing director Patrick Verhoeven.
“Amid uncertainty about the maritime industry’s long-term strategy for decarbonization, ESI remains a trusted, established, and evolving solution to help ports reward those vessels reducing emissions at a level beyond the International Maritime Organization baseline.”
Continuity for Incentive Providers and Incentive Receivers
The administrator change does not lead to any immediate changes for ESI participants. Building on ESI’s strong foundation and global recognition, the focus will be on strengthening ESI’s role for ports and shipowners and ensuring alignment with evolving technical developments, regulatory requirements, and the decarbonization ambitions of the global maritime industry.
About OceanScore
OceanScore supports maritime stakeholders in turning regulatory compliance into commercial success, serving shipping companies, ports, and financial institutions. Its market-leading compliance manager helps shipping companies streamline regulatory workflows, improve cost visibility, and enable commercially sound decisions, while OceanScore’s PortView gives ports transparent, data-based insight into the emissions performance of calling vessels. Banks, insurers, and asset managers are served through ShipReview, providing vessel-level environmental, social, and governance insights. With ESI, OceanScore expands its support for maritime stakeholders by strengthening emissions transparency and incentive mechanisms across the maritime value chain.
About International Association of Ports and Harbors
Founded in 1955, IAPH has developed into a global alliance of 201 port authorities, as well as 175 port-related businesses. Comprised of over 94 nations across the world’s continents, member ports handle over one third of the world’s seaborne trade and well over 60 percent of container traffic. The IAPH leads global port industry initiatives on decarbonization and energy transition, risk and resilience management, and accelerating digitalization in the maritime transport chain. The IAPH’s World Ports Sustainability Program has grown into the reference database of best practices of ports, applying United Nations sustainable development goals and integrating them into their businesses across six key areas: digitalization; infrastructure; health, safety, and security; environmental care; community building; and climate and energy.
For more information contact Damla Hasenclever, content marketing manager at OceanScore, at damla.hasenclever@ oceanscore.com. S (photo: OceanSource)
Grow your septage, FOG, and sludge receiving business with a Raptor Septage Acceptance or Complete Plant.
Trippensee Shaw, Inc.
Eustis, Sebring, & Mount Dora, FL T: 407-222-0575 www.TrippenseeShaw.com
Florida Panhandle Only
T: 205.424.7570 www.eshelmancompany.com
NOT YOUR ORDINARY RECEIVING SYSTEM
Raptor Septage Acceptance Plant
Removes debris and inorganic solids from municipal and industrial septage, FOG, and sludge. This heavy-duty machine incorporates the Raptor Fine Screen for screening, dewatering and compaction. Accessories include security access and automated accounting systems.
Raptor Septage Complete Plant
With the addition of aerated grit removal, the Septage Acceptance Plant is offered as the Raptor Septage Complete Plant.
Cleaner Water for a Brighter Future®
Speak to one of our experts at 630.837.5640 or email us at sales@lakeside-equipment.com for more product information.
EEnergy Efficiency and Environmental Stewardship
Joan Fernandez President, FWEA
nergy efficiency and environmental stewardship remain at the forefront of Florida’s water sector priorities. Utilities and communities across the state are increasingly embracing practices that reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and protect natural resources, all while maintaining high standards of water quality and reliability. From statewide efforts to conserve water through programs that promote efficient use and landscape practices, to significant investments in projects that bolster water supply and ecosystem health, the commitment to responsible stewardship is evident. These efforts not only support sustainable operations, but also reinforce our shared responsibility to safeguard Florida’s precious water resources for future generations.
As water professionals, we have an opportunity to lead by example in integrating energywise practices and environmental care into every aspect of our work.
Advancing Energy Efficiency in Water and Wastewater Systems
Florida’s water sector has been proactive in embracing energy efficiency improvements that benefit both utilities and communities across the state. One notable effort is the Energy Efficiency Technical Assistance Program offered through the Florida Rural Water Association, which provides small water and wastewater systems with free energy assessments and recommendations for energy-saving
practices and technologies, which is a resource aimed at reducing energy consumption by at least 15 percent and improving long-term financial sustainability.
State leadership has also directed funding toward energy-focused upgrades at publicly owned utilities. In 2025, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced nearly $5 million in energy efficiency grants for rural water and wastewater facilities, enabling several upgrades, such as high-efficiency pumps, motors, and lighting, that lower operating costs and enhance reliability in fiscally constrained counties. Additionally, Florida’s Guaranteed Energy, Water, and Wastewater Performance Savings Contracting Act encourages agencies to invest in efficiency and conservation measures that reduce energy and resource consumption while generating long-term savings that can be reinvested into further improvements.
In addition to targeted programs and individual utility achievements, broader financial mechanisms continue to support energy-related upgrades. The Clean Water State Revolving Fund provides low-interest loans that can be used for energy efficiency and conservation projects, including equipment upgrades and onsite renewable energy systems, making energy improvements more accessible for water and wastewater facilities statewide. These initiatives
collectively underscore Florida’s commitment to reducing energy use, enhancing operational resilience, and promoting sustainability across water infrastructure.
Strengthening Environmental Stewardship Across Florida
Environmental stewardship remains a guiding principle for Florida’s water and wastewater community, shaping how utilities plan, operate, and invest in infrastructure. Across the state, utilities are implementing projects that go beyond regulatory compliance to actively protect surface waters, groundwater, and sensitive ecosystems. Efforts such as advanced nutrient removal, improved biosolids management, and expanded water reuse programs are helping reduce environmental impacts while supporting long-term sustainability. These initiatives reflect a shared commitment to safeguarding Florida’s natural resources amid continued growth and development.
A major focus of environmental stewardship in Florida has been improving water quality through targeted nutrient reduction strategies. Utilities are upgrading wastewater treatment facilities to achieve lower nutrient limits, helping protect springs, rivers, lakes, and estuaries from excess nitrogen and
phosphorus. Programs supporting septic-to-sewer conversions and collection system improvements further reduce the risk of nutrient loading and unintended discharges. Together, these actions play a critical role in restoring impaired water bodies and preserving aquatic ecosystems statewide.
Florida utilities are also advancing stewardship through integrated water resource management and reuse initiatives. Expanded reclaimed water systems reduce reliance on freshwater sources while supporting irrigation, industrial uses, and groundwater recharge. In many regions, reuse projects are paired with conservation programs that encourage efficient water use and public awareness. By maximizing the value of every drop, utilities are helping balance water supply needs with environmental protection.
Working Together
Collaboration continues to be central to Florida’s environmental stewardship efforts. Utilities, state agencies, water management districts, and professional organizations work together to secure funding, share best practices, and advance innovative solutions. Through grant programs, resilience initiatives, and ongoing research, Florida’s water sector is demonstrating leadership in protecting public health, preserving ecosystems, and ensuring a sustainable water future for generations to come.
As always, I welcome your questions, ideas, and collaboration on any initiative you’re passionate about. Whether you want to discuss a column or article topic, get involved with FWEA activities, or simply connect, feel free to reach out. You can contact me anytime at fernandezji@cdmsmith.com or at 954.882.9566. S
Energy Efficiency in the Florida Water and Wastewater Industry: Challenges, Strategies, Trends, and Opportunities for Utilities
Energy is one of the largest controllable operating expenses for Florida’s water and wastewater utilities, often representing 25 to 40 percent of total operation and maintenance (O&M) costs. As regulatory requirements intensify, treatment technologies become more energy-intensive, and climate-driven resilience challenges grow, utilities face increasing pressure to reduce energy consumption while maintaining affordability and service reliability.
This article examines the drivers of energy use in Florida’s water sector, evaluates state and regional initiatives supporting energy efficiency, and outlines practical strategies—ranging from equipment modernization to advanced process optimization—that can significantly reduce energy
intensity. A phased implementation roadmap is provided to help utilities integrate energy efficiency into long-term planning and asset management.
Florida’s Water Environment
Florida’s water and wastewater utilities operate in a uniquely demanding environment. High groundwater pumping lifts, advanced treatment for nutrients and emerging contaminants, and year-round demand create substantial energy loads. At the same time, utilities must maintain affordability, meet regulatory requirements, and prepare for extreme weather events that threaten power reliability.
Energy efficiency has emerged as a strategic
priority across the state. Recent funding programs—including a $5 million statewide grant initiative for treatment-facility energy upgrades— reflect growing recognition that reducing energy intensity is essential for financial sustainability and climate resilience. A comprehensive overview of energy use in Florida’s water sector is provided, along with actionable strategies for utilities of all sizes.
Energy Use in Florida Water and Wastewater Systems
Water Treatment and Distribution
Energy consumption in potable water systems is dominated by pumping and treatment processes:
Raw water pumping
S Deep Floridan aquifer wells often require lifts of 150 to 600 feet, creating substantial baseline energy demand. Aging pumps, worn impellers, and declining well efficiency can increase energy use by 10 to 20 percent.
High‑service pumping
Florida’s flat topography and long transmission mains require continuous pressure maintenance. Oversized pumps operating off their best-efficiency point are common, leading to unnecessary energy consumption.
Membrane treatment systems
S Brackish groundwater reverse osmosis (RO) plants—prevalent in coastal counties—operate at pressures of 150 to 300 pounds per square inch (psi). Energy recovery devices remain underutilized despite potential savings of 10 to 25 percent.
Disinfection and chemical feed systems
S Sodium hypochlorite generation, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, and chemical metering systems contribute smaller but continuous loads. Poorly tuned chemical systems can increase both energy and chemical consumption.
Distribution system losses
S Nonrevenue water (NRW) increases production requirements. Every 1 percent reduction in NRW can reduce energy use by 0.5 to 1 percent, depending on the system configuration.
Continued on page 12
Wastewater Treatment
Wastewater facilities typically have higher energy intensities than potable systems.
Aeration systems
S Aeration accounts for 40 to 60 percent of total plant energy. Many Florida plants still use coarse-bubble diffusers or fixed-speed blowers, leaving substantial savings untapped.
Lift stations
S Florida’s flat terrain results in a high density of lift stations. Inefficient pumps, poor wet well cycling, and outdated controls increase run time and energy use.
Sludge handling and dewatering
S Belt presses, centrifuges, and polymer systems can be optimized through feed-forward controls, reducing both energy and chemical use.
Nutrient removal systems
S Enhanced biological nutrient removal (BNR)
and advanced oxidation processes significantly increase energy intensity. Optimizing dissolved oxygen (DO) set points and internal recycle flows can reduce energy by 10 to 30 percent.
UV disinfection
S The use of UV systems is increasingly common due to chlorine residual limits in reclaimed water. Lamp fouling and ballast inefficiencies can increase energy use by 15 to 25 percent if not maintained.
Drivers for Energy Efficiency in Florida
Rising Operational Costs
Electricity rates in Florida have increased steadily, with some regions experiencing 3 to 6 percent annual growth.
S Energy often exceeds chemical costs and can even rival labor expenses.
S Utilities with membrane treatment or BNR face disproportionately higher energy burdens.
Regulatory Pressures
Changes in regulations are requiring alternative treatments.
S Total maximum daily loads and basin management action plans require nutrient reductions that often increase aeration demand.
S Reclaimed water standards push utilities toward UV and advanced treatment.
S Regulations for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances may require granular activated carbon or RO, both of which increase energy intensity.
Climate and Resilience
Changes in climate are affecting both normal and emergency service.
S Hurricanes and grid outages highlight the need for lower baseline energy demand.
S Energy-efficient systems reduce generator sizing requirements.
S Solar and battery storage can support critical loads during extended outages.
Sustainability and Public Expectations
The public has more access to information about utilities and is demanding increased accountability.
S Customers expect utilities to reduce emissions and operate sustainably.
S Energy efficiency supports environmental, social, and governance reporting and long-term climate goals.
S Utilities can demonstrate stewardship through transparent energy-intensity metrics.
State and Regional Programs
Supporting Energy Efficiency
Florida Water and Wastewater Treatment Facility Energy Efficiency Program
Launched in 2024, this program provides:
S $5 million in grants for energy-efficiency upgrades
S Funding for high-efficiency blowers, pumps, motors, and controls
S Support for energy audits and feasibility studies
Florida Rural Water Association
The Florida Rural Water Association (FWRA) offers:
S No-cost energy assessments
S Pump efficiency testing
S Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and operational optimization support
S Assistance with grant applications
Water Management District Initiatives
The five Florida water management districts support:
S Water conservation programs
S Leak detection and pressure management
S Energy-efficient pumping and treatment upgrades
Energy Efficiency Strategies for Florida Utilities
Equipment Modernization
Drives and Motors
S High-efficiency motors and variable frequency drives (VFDs) increase efficiency.
S Premium-efficiency motors reduce energy use by 5 to 10 percent.
S The VFDs allow pumps and blowers to match real-time demand, reducing cycling and wear.
S Many Florida utilities still operate fixed-speed blowers and pumps installed decades ago.
Turbo or High‑Speed Blowers
S Offer 20 to 40 percent energy savings over positive-displacement blowers.
S Magnetic bearing systems reduce maintenance and improve reliability.
S Ideal for plants with variable aeration demand.
Fine‑Bubble Diffusers
S Improve oxygen transfer efficiency by 20 to 50 percent.
S Require periodic cleaning to maintain performance in Florida’s warm, bioactive environments.
Solar Photovoltaic Systems
S Florida’s high solar irradiance makes photovoltaic systems cost-effective for wellfields and administration buildings.
S Pairing solar with battery storage can reduce peak-demand charges.
S Floating solar on reclaimed water reservoirs is an emerging trend.
Operational Optimization
Aeration Control Using DO Sensors
S Maintaining DO at 1.5 to 2 mg/L, instead of 3 to 4 mg/L, can reduce aeration energy by 15 to 30 percent.
S Advanced sensors with automatic cleaning reduce drift and improve reliability.
S Ammonia-based aeration control can further reduce energy.
Pump Scheduling Based on Time‑of‑Use Rates
S Shifting pumping to off-peak hours reduces demand charges.
S SCADA-based optimization automates pump sequencing and reservoir management.
S Some Florida utilities have achieved 10 to 15 percent savings through optimized pump scheduling.
Leak Detection and Pressure Management
S Reducing system pressure by 5 psi can reduce leakage by 10 to 15 percent.
S Pressure-reducing valves with remote monitoring improve system stability.
S Acoustic leak detection and district metered areas help target losses.
SCADA‑Integrated Energy Dashboards
S Real-time dashboards allow operators to track kilowatt hours per million gallons (kWh/MG) and identify anomalies.
S Energy key performance indicators can be tied to operator performance metrics.
S Dashboards support data-driven decision making and prioritization.
Process Improvements
BNR Optimization
S Adjusting internal recycle rates can reduce aeration demand by 10 to 20 percent.
S Intermittent aeration strategies improve nitrogen removal efficiency.
S Online nutrient analyzers support real-time process control.
Sidestream Treatment
S Treating high-strength sidestreams reduces mainstream aeration loads.
S Deammonification can reduce energy use by 60 to 90 percent in sidestreams.
Energy‑Efficient Membrane Systems
S Low-pressure membranes and optimized flux rates reduce energy consumption.
S Periodic cleaning and pretreatment improvements maintain membrane efficiency.
S Energy recovery devices can reclaim 10 to 25 percent of RO energy.
Continued on page 14
Benefits of Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency affects every aspect of a utility’s operations.
Financial
S Reduced O&M costs improve long-term rate stability.
S Lower peak-demand charges can save thousands per month.
S Energy savings extend equipment life and reduce emergency repairs.
Environmental
S Lower energy use reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
S Reduced chemical consumption improves watershed health.
S Efficient systems support Florida’s long-term sustainability goals.
Operational
S Improved process stability enhances effluent quality.
S Reduced equipment cycling lowers maintenance needs.
S Energy-efficient systems are more resilient during hurricanes and outages.
Emerging Trends
Several trends have been identified that are driving energy improvements.
Small Utility Involvement
The FRWA assessments show the following:
S 10 to 25 percent savings through operational changes
S 20 to 40 percent savings with blower and pump upgrades
S Significant improvements in process stability and effluent quality
Digital Transformation Utilities are adopting and utilizing:
S Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted process control
S Predictive maintenance
S Energy-intensity benchmarking
S Digital twins for treatment optimization
Integration With Asset Management
Energy efficiency is increasingly embedded in:
S Level-of-service metrics
S Capital improvement program (CIP) prioritization
S Risk-based decision making
S Long-term financial planning
Implementation Roadmap for Florida Utilities
The energy efficiency roadmap for utilities includes five phases:
Phase 1: Assessment
S Conduct energy audits and pump efficiency tests.
S Benchmark kWh/MG for treatment and pumping.
S Identify high-load processes and equipment nearing end of life.
Phase 2: Prioritization
S Evaluate payback periods and lifecycle costs.
S Consider regulatory drivers and resilience benefits.
S Align projects with available grants and district funding.
Phase 3: Piloting
S Test aeration control strategies.
S Pilot VFD retrofits on high-service pumps.
S Evaluate solar feasibility at wellfields and admin buildings.
Phase 4: Capital Planning
S Integrate energy efficiency into CIP development.
S Bundle projects for funding competitiveness.
S Incorporate energy metrics into asset management systems.
Phase 5: Monitoring and Reporting
S Track energy intensity and cost savings.
S Report results to governing boards and customers.
S Update operational strategies based on performance data.
Conclusion
Energy efficiency is a strategic imperative for Florida’s water and wastewater utilities. With rising energy costs, increasing regulatory pressures, and growing climate risks, utilities must adopt a proactive approach to reducing energy intensity. Through equipment modernization, operational optimization, and long-term planning, Florida’s utilities can achieve substantial cost savings, improve resilience, and support sustainable water management statewide. The tools, funding, and technologies are available—what remains is the commitment to integrate energy efficiency into everyday decision making and management planning. S
Celebrate 2026 National Drinking Water Week!
For nearly 40 years, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) has celebrated Drinking Water Week with its members and the public. This year, it will be held May 3-9.
History
In 1988, AWWA brought the event to the attention of the United States government and formed a coalition with the League of Women Voters, Association of State Drinking Water Administrators, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. That year, Rep. Robert Roe of New Jersey and Sen. Dennis DeConcini of Arizona sponsored a resolution to name the first week of May as National Drinking Water Week, and an information kit was distributed to the media and to more than 10,000 utilities across the U.S. The week-long observance was declared in a joint congressional resolution and signed by then-President Ronald Reagan.
The following year AWWA approached several other organizations to participate. Through that effort, the National Drinking Water Alliance was formed, consisting of 15 nonprofit educational, professional, and public interest organizations. The alliance dedicated itself to public awareness and involvement in public and private drinking water issues and continued its work to organize a major annual educational campaign built around Drinking Water Week.
The power of the multiorganization alliance enabled Drinking Water Week to grow
into widespread and committed participation throughout the U.S. and Canada. In 1991, the alliance launched a national campaign to inform the public about America’s drinking water. The group distributed a kit containing ideas for celebrating the event, conservation facts and tip sheets, news releases, and posters. Celebrating Drinking Water Week is an easy way to educate the public, connect with the community, and promote employee morale. Too often, water utilities receive publicity only when something bad happens; Drinking Water Week celebrations give utilities an opportunity for positive communication and a way to connect with their customers.
Public Communication
Communicating to the public during Drinking Water Week is integral to any successful celebration. Some options and ideas are:
S Advertise in local newspapers (hard copy and online)
S Send bill stuffers to customers
S Work with local libraries, and senior and community centers, to set up displays
S Use mall kiosks to reach a broad audience
S Coordinate distribution of AWWA, section, and local utility news releases
S Publicize the release of water utility consumer confidence reports
S Send public service announcements to local radio, television, and cable stations
S Set up a Facebook page and use other social media outlets, like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok
Community Events
It’s important to be a part of the local community. Communitywide events are fun and festive ways to make sure that customers know about their drinking water—where it comes from, how they get it, and what they can do to help ensure their drinking water quality. Events could include the following:
S Invite your community members to an open house
S Inaugurate an adopt-a-hydrant program
S Plant a tree
S Conduct plant tours
S Hold a landmark dedication/anniversary celebration
S Bury a time capsule
S Partner with local botanic gardens and environmental groups
S Plan a community cleanup
Youth Focus
Drinking Water Week is a perfect time to educate children and youth about their water supply in an atmosphere of fun. Here are some ideas:
S Have utility employees make presentations at local schools
S Partner with a local school district and hold an artwork contest that encourages students to draw or color pictures showing how water is essential to their daily lives
Internal Communications and Events
Don’t forget your employees! Drinking Water Week can help reaffirm to employees
the importance of what it is they do—provide clean, safe drinking water for the public. Consider these:
S Hold an annual employee picnic during Drinking Water Week
S Create a utility or company newsletter feature on Drinking Water Week
S Video employees talking about their jobs and what they do to make the public’s water safe and post the information on social media
Drinking Water Week is celebrated during the first full week of May each year. Future dates are:
S 2027 – May 2-8
S 2028 – May 7-13
S 2029 – May 6-12
For questions about Drinking Water Week contact Megan McDowell at mmcdowell@ awwa.org or 920.493.0532. S
FWRC IS ALMOST HERE!
April 26-29, 2026 | Ocean Center | Daytona Beach
CALLING ALL EXHIBITORS!
We still have a few booths left!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your business* and connect with the water community.
Visit fwrc.org/exhibit to secure your booth today!
STILL WANT TO BECOME A SPONSOR?
STILL WANT TO BECOME A SPONSOR?
Great Sponsorship Opportunities are still available!
Do you know about all of the exciting perks of becoming an FWRC Sponsor? Unlimited Exhibit Hall Passes, Logos included on signage in high-traffic areas and on our website. Sponsors are also featured in printed programs* and through push notifications in the FWRC app. Visit fwrc.org/sponsor to become a sponsor today!
HAVE YOU RESERVED YOUR HOTEL?
HAVE YOU RESERVED YOUR HOTEL?
Multiple Hotel Block Options Available!
Hotel rooms for are filling up quickly! Act fast before they sell out! Remember to use the links provided on the FWRC website to ensure that rooms are reserved with the negotiated discounted conference rates.
Visit fwrc.org to reserve your rooms today!
TECHNICAL SESSIONS AND SUNDAY TRAINING WORKSHOPS
TECHNICAL SESSIONS AND SUNDAY TRAINING WORKSHOPS
Looking to earn CEUs and PDHs?
Don’t forget to take advantage of the Sunday Training Workshops being offered at on Sunday, April 26th, 2026. Purchase a 1-day Sunday Ticket (at a 50% reduced price from a Monday or Tuesday 1-day ticket). View the entire schedule online at fwrc.org/learn.
April 26-29, 2026
Daytona Beach Ocean
SUNDAY TRAINING WORKSHOPS
Looking to earn additional CEUs and PDHs?
Purchase a 1-day Sunday Ticket (at a 50% reduced price from a Monday or Tuesday 1-day ticket). Take advantage of the Sunday Training Workshops being offered in 2026.
SUNDAY, APRIL 26 ,2026 (8:00AM TO NOON)
CHEMICAL SAFETY
This training will cover chemical safety topics including state and federal regulations, safety data sheets, PPE and exposure routes, and safe handling of drinking water and wastewater chemicals.
SURFACE WATER TREATMENT
This workshop will focus on the basic concepts of surface water treatment including water sources and treatment, reservoirs and intakes, coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection.
SUNDAY, APRIL 26 ,2026 (1:00PM TO 3:00PM)
SIMPLIFYING IT AND OT FOR OPERATORS
This workshop provides actionable, operator-focused education to help improve system reliability, safety, and cyber resilience. The purpose is to demystify Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) for water and wastewater treatment plant operators. Participants will gain a practical understanding of how IT and OT systems support daily operations, followed by a focused cybersecurity session highlighting developing an OT training program for staff and solutions and tools for implementing assessment recommendations.
OPERATIONAL MATH
This training will cover basic math problems common to water and wastewater treatment.
SUNDAY, APRIL 26 ,2026
(1:00PM TO 5:00PM)
MECHANICAL SAFETY
This workshop will cover mechanical safety training topics including off-site pipe prep and installation, Hydrant Safety, MOT set ups for Job Sites, and lock out tag out.
MEMBRANES
This workshop will cover the basics of membrane care and cleaning to increase the life and efficiency of membranes.
WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEMS
This training will cover some of the basic concepts of a wastewater collection system, such as wastewater system inspecting and testing, safe procedures, lift station and equipment maintenance, pipeline cleaning and maintenance, pipeline repair and rehabilitation, and wastewater math.
FROM BENCHMARKING TO INTELLIGENCE: USING AI TO ENHANCE UTILITY PERFORMANCE
This workshop will provide an overview of real-world applications of AI for different utility needs from technology solutions to effective communication, fostering innovation and improving operational efficiency.
TECHNICAL PROGRAM
APRIL 27, 2026 - MONDAY MORNING
APRIL 27, 2026 - MONDAY AFTERNOON
TECHNICAL PROGRAM
APRIL 28, 2026 - TUESDAY MORNING
APRIL 28, 2026 - TUESDAY AFTERNOON
ATTENTION ATTENDEES
Have you purchased your tickets for the conference? Remember to take advantage of the early bird pricing! Ticket prices increase March 21, 2026.
2026 FWRC Attendee Ticket Options
Prices valid until March 20, 2026
FWPCOA REGION IV IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE
OUR JUNE 2026 SHORT SCHOOL WILL BE OFFERING CERTIFICATION AND CEU COURSES
Utilities Maintenance Level 3
3
and Stormwater 1 Water Distribution Level 1 Wastewater Collection 1 Utilities Maintenance Level 1
Distribution Level 2
2
02014026
Cost: $405 for the Supervision Course and Exam
Cost: $375 for all other Course and Exams/$100 Exam Only (if applicable)
All training manuals will be provided when checking in for your class.
Wastewater Collection 3 & 2 and Stormwater 3 & 2 classes will be held at
City of St. Petersburg Water Resources
Operations Building: 1701 Burlington Ave. No., St. Petersburg, Fl. 33713
Supervision Level 1 classes, Water Distribution 3 & 2, Utilities Maintenance 3 & 2 will be held at
City of Pinellas Park Utilities Complex 6250 82nd Avenue, Pinellas Park, FL 33781
Classes 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Exam 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Room assignment given at registration.
All Exams - Friday 8:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Pinellas Park, 6250 82nd Ave. Pinellas Park, FL 33781
For questions, please contact Bob Case or Ray Bordner
Robertcase1952@gmail.com Raybordner@aol.com
Phone 727-430-1349 Phone 727-798-3969
AWWA Water Equation and WE Walk: Meet the People Who Power These Programs
Jay Madigan
The Water Equation (WE), a program of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), is an initiative aimed at supporting the future of the water industry. It was established in 2015 to address the critical need for a skilled workforce in the water sector, focusing on:
S Funding workforce achievement with scholarships and educational opportunities
S Supporting young professionals with programs and training events
S Creating Engineering Corps in communities, connecting industry volunteers with local water entities.
The annual AWWA WE Walk, a fundraiser for WE, has participants from the water community all across the United States who come together to walk, hike, bike, kayak, swim, and move in support of WE and its programs.
Florida Participation in WE Walk
The Fun ‘n Sun Team, made up of individuals from the Florida Section AWWA (FSAWWA), is proud to be part of this impactful event. In 2025 it raised $10,600 and earned first place nationally in the WE Walk competition for the second year in a row!
I want to highlight some of the local participants who make the program here such a success. First off is Dr. Zach Gilmore, whose insight sparked this interview series, where we
From left to right are Jenny Arguello, Peggy Guingona, Richard Anderson, Kristi Anderson, Victoria Holcomb, Terri Holcomb, Justin Saarinen, Tiffany Von Tungeln, Julie Karleskint, and Richard Yunker.
meet several WE Walk leaders whose stories reflect the same timeless truth: water still inspires and water continues to connect.
Zach Gilmore
Right here in Orlando, thanks to Keeli Carlton, water policy program manager at Seminole County, I recently met Zach Gilmore, Ph.D. He is a professor at Rollins College, who studies our human experience of water across deep time. As an anthropological archaeologist he researches precontact Indigenous societies of the American Southeast. Dr. Gilmore focuses on reconstructing the social histories of communities along Florida’s St. Johns River and its major tributaries. Through his teaching and writing, he shows that water does more than sustain life; historically, it has been a gathering force—connecting people, shaping relationships, and enabling communities to
When you talk with Terri Holcomb, you don’t have to wait long to learn what matters most to her: her husband, her daughters, and the many friendships she built over a career making water sustainable and available. Now retired, Terri served as director of engineering at the
Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority, where she helped create technicalexpert teams upon which communities depend every day.
Terri’s passion for water started long before gaining her engineering degree. She grew up near Rochester, N.Y. Her mother, Carole Kniepkamp, inspires her to this day. As a single parent with a strong work ethic, Carole modeled a simple, lasting principle: you help people who need you and they’ll be there for you when you need them. That belief became Terri’s compass in both her career and her volunteer life, and it’s also what connects her so naturally to the FSAWWA community.
These days, Terri puts that “service to others” mindset into action through WE and WE Walk, strengthening the scholarship support and Engineering Corps dedication that help build the next generation of water professionals. Her walking, kayaking, and swimming for WE each year often means logging miles side by side with her husband. On a recent trip to Colorado, they walked through all four of that state’s national parks. That steady pace is exactly what makes her such a consistent leader in helping FSAWWA rally, participate, and succeed as a team. And, it prepares this couple for racking up the miles this April and May for WE Walk.
Margo Hatton
Welcome to our new friend in Denver leading WE to greater, even atmospheric heights: Margo Hatton! Her water inspiration
Great Flood of 1921 in Pueblo. Colo.
story starts in Pueblo, Colo. The river there is not just scenery; it was part of the community’s memory and identity. Growing up in Pueblo, Margo absorbed a deep respect for both the wonder of water and its power. The city’s history includes the Great Flood of 1921 (shown in the photo), when the Arkansas River devastated downtown and reshaped how the city thought about water and safety. Studying and hearing about that history hit hard. Personal stories of the flood stayed close to Margo, forming within her a lifelong instinct: water is not abstract; it is personal, consequential, and worth organizing around.
Margo’s career, driven by what she calls an instinct to take action when needed, is like a river flowing into results-oriented nonprofit professional activities. Building long-term relationships with donors, she has helped turn community vision into durable public benefit. What she builds, she builds to last. The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo itself is a grantwriting result of Margo’s pioneering activity. For all of us to experience, the Riverwalk is a reminder that water-related projects can become engines of renewal, not just infrastructure.
Today Margo brings that same “make it real” energy to WE and WE Walk. For Margo, that mission feels like coming home. Colorado is a headwaters place, where people understand— viscerally—that rivers can be both life-giving and stressed, and that communities must choose clarity and stewardship. In her words: “We encounter water at the beginning of our lives, and those who are conscious—who have a passion for water quality—become ‘family’ with others who feel the same.” That sense of “family” is exactly what she hopes to reinforce through WE Walk: clear goals, clear direction, and a shared drive to turn caring into measurable support for the people who keep safe water flowing.
Margo has experience with the Space Foundation, a nonprofit advocate organization founded in 1983 that delivers excellence in education, collaboration, and information to advance the global space community, which is located in Colorado Springs, Colo. It brought her a global perspective that shows up in how she connects water to innovation and education. That perspective is honed through conversations
about modern water uses, like hydroponics, or through partnerships and learning communities that spark curiosity, including Colorado’s broader science and technology ecosystem, such as the Space Foundation’s Discovery Center, an interactive science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM)-focused destination. In every setting, Margo’s gift is the same: she helps people see where the “why of water” meets the “how of water” and through WE Walk we will have the momentum to deliver!
Mark Lehigh
Mark Lehigh doesn’t just support WE Walk—he shows up for it, mile after mile and on two wheels. Today, Mark is a Hillsborough County section manager; he began his career 43 years ago as a trainee. Mark brings his unique blend of friendly fun, purpose, and competitiveness to the FSAWWA WE effort.
Mark’s original connection to water work began at home. His father spent more than 22 years with the utility and he inspired Mark to get the job at the county. That start became a lifelong calling—a legacy Mark still carries with him. Four decades later, he helps communities stay healthy and safe while honoring the example that brought him into the profession in the first place.
Mark’s cycling springs from his motive to see our Sunshine State winning WE Walk every year! And he is not alone. The FSAWWA shows
the other AWWA sections, as Mark puts it, “how the miles stack up and we win WE Walk!” His team-friendly rivalry turns into motivation, but the competition is never the point by itself. For Mark, WE Walk is a direct line to support WE and the scholarships that help develop the next generation of operators. Having started as a trainee himself, he knows how much opportunity matters early in a career—and how much the profession depends on a strong pipeline of well-trained people.
His bicycle has become more than a fitness tool—it’s a communication platform. Mark’s network through Strava, the world’s biggest fitness tracking app, sees the mileage climb and immediately knows “It’s WE Walk time.” In everyday conversations with friends and social circles, he uses those miles to highlight the importance of water and the reality that most people don’t see: the “hidden heroes” behind clean, safe water. He’s proud that a simple act— riding for a cause—can spark awareness and appreciation for the people protecting public health 24/7.
For Mark Lehigh, the miles are measurable, but the impact is bigger than the numbers. He rides to honor his father’s legacy, invest in the next generation of operators, and make sure more people understand what’s at stake—and who’s quietly keeping them safe.
Continued on page 28
Margo (right) with Dawn Fletcher.
Mark and his dad at a Tampa Bay Rays game
Mark (right) and friends cycling for donuts.
Mark and cycling friends.
Mark (left) with some past Florida Section AWWA chairs.
Jennifer Briggs
Jennifer Briggs is a certified project management professional and project manager with Kimley-Horn, where her day-to-day work lives at the intersection of water, people, and complexity—helping water and wastewater utilities navigate permitting, regulatory coordination, and compliance demands. Her “project mindset” shows up the same way in the FSAWWA Region X community: she helps lead WE Walk.
One inspiring way she has fun with WE Walk each year is the idea that progress is built one disciplined step at a time—something she learned personally in 2020. A New Year’s resolution, launched right as COVID reshaped all our daily lives, became a lasting shift: she leaned into running and cycling, and the consistency changed her mindset. That same endurance-and-clarity approach powers her volunteer leadership. Doing WE Walk with Jennifer from April to May in not just a fundraiser—it’s a connection with people who together strengthen the profession. So, she builds teams, aligns partners, and creates events where collaboration becomes momentum.
And yes—she practices what she preaches about endurance. A few years ago, Jennifer took on The Day Across Minnesota (THE DAMN): a single-day gravel ride across Minnesota, cycling midnight-tomidnight, spanning roughly 240 miles. Since then, she has completed Ironman triathlons, ultramarathons, and continues to stay active with a regular regiment of exercise, because as Jennifer says, “I do what I can today because you don’t know what you can’t do tomorrow.” That kind of grit translates directly into Region X’s Hydro Hunt and related WE Walk activities.
She saw an opportunity to turn community energy into scholarship and training support—real resources that help create opportunities and build the next generation of water professionals.
Making an Impact
Both WE and WE Walk are committed to ensuring that the water community has the necessary workers to provide clean and safe water to all who need it. As the water workforce faces significant retirements in the coming years, these programs are crucial for sustaining the industry that serves its communities.
You can get involved, as a participant, volunteer, and/or a sponsor, in the next WE event: Hydro Hunt! See the flyer here for event particulars.
For more information about WE and We Walk go to www.awwa.org and www.fsawwa.org.
Jay Madigan is chief resilience officer for Graham Inc., an 8(a) certified and economically disadvantaged women owned small business (EDWOSB), providing strategic water management services to both public and private sector clients. He served many years on the board and as a trustee for FSAWWA (recently awarded the Dr. Edward Singley Award) and volunteers as executive director of the Lake Cane Restoration Society, a certified 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to setting exemplary standards for the protection of Florida’s raw water resources. S
Jennifer (right) with Heather.
Jeff (seated) with (left to right) Stephanie Rodriguez, Jennifer Briggs, and John Briggs.
LET’S TALK SAFETY
This column addresses safety issues of interest to water and wastewater personnel, and will appear monthly in the magazine. The Journal is also interested in receiving any articles on the subject of safety that it can share with readers in the “Spotlight on Safety” column.
Take a Load Off: Tips for Safe Lifting
Lifting and carrying objects is an everyday occurrence for workers in many occupations. Safe lifting techniques should be stressed at all workplaces, but are commonly overlooked. Most people just want to finish the job quickly, even if that means
moving heavy objects in unsafe ways. In doing so, workers can become injured and have to miss work for extended periods of time.
Back and lifting injuries are a leading cause of missed work days. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overexertion in
lifting or lowering caused an average of 12 days away from work (30 percent more than the overall average), and was the fifth highest rate of days missed per 10,000 full-time workers.
Designing for Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has evaluated ways to help prevent lifting injuries. It specifies two types of controls: engineering and administrative. Engineering controls are used to redesign the workstation to minimize lifting hazards; administrative controls include carefully selecting and training workers so that they can perform their jobs safely.
Engineering Controls
These controls include:
S Redesigning the weight being lifted to help make it easier to lift the item with the presence of handles, use of baskets, or stabilizing the package being handled.
S Adjusting the height of the object being moved.
S Installing mechanical aids, such as pneumatic lifts, conveyors, and/or automated material handling equipment.
Administrative Controls
These controls include:
S Strength-test all workers. Studies have shown strength testing can prevent up to one-third of all work-related injuries. Through the strength-testing process, employers can discourage employees from performing tasks that exceed their strength capacities.
S Use physical conditioning and stretching programs to reduce the risk of muscle strain.
S Train employees to utilize proper lifting techniques that place minimum stress on the lower back.
S Post signage around the facility reminding workers to lift safely.
Even if you don’t lift heavy objects often at work, you are still susceptible to an injury. You can strain your back lifting something as light as a screwdriver if you are not careful.
Lifting Techniques
An improper lifting technique can lead to serious and possibly permanent back, leg, and arm pain. A poor lifting technique can cause both acute injury and serious chronic effects. Whether you work in an office environment or in the field, you may encounter instances where heavy lifting is involved. Even if the item you are lifting is not something that is perceived to be heavy, it’s always important to keep in mind the following tips as you plan to lift, move, and lower an object.
Know the Load and Surroundings
S Prior to moving the load from point A to point B, take a minute to evaluate the situation.
S Check the weight of the load by slightly tipping or pushing it.
S Ensure that the load is stable. Repack or secure the load or ask for assistance if the load is unstable.
S Use mechanical equipment if the load is too heavy.
S Ensure that the path of travel is clear of items that might cause a trip or fall.
Lifting the Load
S Face the load with your feet shoulder-width apart.
S Bend your knees, not your back!
S Keep your back straight and your head up.
S Rest the load on your bent knee as you prepare to stand.
S Position the load close to your body.
Moving the Load
S Keep the load as close to your body as possible.
S Pay attention to where you are going.
S Avoid bending and twisting your back; turn with your feet when you need to change direction.
S If you can’t see over the load, find another means to transport it.
S Face the direction you are walking. If you need to turn, stop and turn in small steps and then continue walking.
S Keep your eyes up. Look slightly upward when lifting to help you maintain a better position of the spine.
Lowering the Load
S Use leg muscles—never your back—when lowering the load.
S Set the load on a table or in another location that is at waist level.
S Watch your fingers when lowering the load.
Moving Heavy Loads
S Pushing is always easier on your back than pulling.
S When pushing, keep your elbows close to your body and use your leg muscles instead of your arm and back muscles.
S Wear shoes that have good support and traction.
S If a load is very heavy, ask another coworker to help you.
Be aware of the early warning signs of back strain. If you experience back pain, such as
burning or shooting pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation, seek immediate medical attention.
Things to Avoid
Just as important as following safe lifting techniques, avoiding unsafe behavior can help you to avoid injury.
Here are a few things to avoid while lifting:
S Never hold your breath while you lift an object. Exhaling out when lifting an object is the proper technique to use.
S Don’t use a partial grip on an object. Always use two hands!
S Never obstruct your vision with an object you are carrying. Keep the object at midsection level, from the mid-thigh to mid-chest. This is your “power zone,” where an injury is less likely to happen
S Never forget to wear your personal protective equipment, such as gloves for grip, or shoulder pads, to cushion the load.
By practicing these safe lifting techniques, and avoiding bad lifting habits, you and your staff can stay health and on the job. Since lifting injuries are so common, and detrimental to productivity, the importance of safe lifting techniques cannot be understated and should be treated seriously in every industry.
Resources
For additional information go to:
S www.familydoctor.org
S www.osha.gov.
S
Operators: Take the CEU Challenge!
Members of the Florida Water and Pollution Control Operators Association (FWPCOA) may earn continuing education units through the CEU Challenge! Answer the questions published on this page, based on articles in this month’s issue. Circle the letter of each correct answer. There is only one correct answer to each question! Answer 80 percent of the questions on any article correctly to earn 0.1 CEU for your license. Retests are available.
This month’s editorial theme is Energy Efficiency and Environmental Stewardship Look above each set of questions to see if it is for water operators (DW), distribution system operators (DS), or wastewater operators (WW). Mail the completed page (or a photocopy) to: Florida Environmental Professionals Training, P.O. Box 33119, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. 33420-3119, or scan and email a copy to memfwpcoa@gmail.com. Enclose $15 for each set of questions you choose to answer (make checks payable to FWPCOA). You MUST be an FWPCOA member before you can submit your answers!
EARN CEUS BY ANSWERING QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS JOURNAL ISSUES!
Contact FWPCOA at membership@fwpcoa.org or at 561-840-0340. Articles from past issues can be viewed on the Journal website, www.fwrj.com.
Engineering
Solutions for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl
Substances:
A Critical Review of Separation and Destruction Technologies
Ram
Prasad (Article 1: CEU = 0.1DW/DS/WW02015466)
1. Why are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) often referred to as “forever chemicals”?
a. They resist natural degradation due to strong carbon–fluorine bonds.
b. They are biodegradable under sunlight.
c. They break down quickly in water.
d. They are easily destroyed at low temperatures.
2. Which PFAS separation method leverages PFAS surface activity to form a concentrated foam?
a. Ion exchange
c. Foam fractionation
b. Membrane filtration
d. Ultraviolet sulfite reduction
3. Foam fractionation is most effective for removing which PFAS type?
a. Short-chain PFAS
b. Long-chain PFAS (e.g., perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate)
c. Branched-chain PFAS only
d. PFAS precursors
4. Which factor most influences foam fractionation performance?
a. Sunlight exposure
b. Bubble size, air flow rate, and column height
c. pH only
d. Age of the equipment
5. Which technology can destroy PFAS by mineralizing them above 374°C and 22 megapascals (MPas)?
a. Photocatalysis
b. Nonthermal plasma
c. Activated carbon adsorption
d. Supercritical water oxidation
Energy Efficiency in the Water Industry
(Article 2: CEU = 0.1DW/DS/WW02015467)
1. Every 1 percent reduction in nonrevenue water can reduce energy consumption by approximately how much?
a. 0.1–0.3 percent
b. 0.2–0.4 percent
c. 0.5–1 percent
d. 1–2 percent
2. Which membrane technology consumes significant energy in Florida’s coastal utilities?
a. Brackish groundwater reverse osmosis
b. Ultrafiltration
c. Microfiltration
d. Nanofiltration only
3. Premium efficiency motors can reduce energy use by approximately:
a. 2–4 percent
b. 5–10 percent
c. 12–18 percent
d. 20–25 percent
4. Fine bubble diffusers can increase oxygen transfer efficiency by:
a. 5–10 percent
b. 10–20 percent
c. 20–50 percent
d. 60–80 percent
5. Maintaining dissolved oxygen at 1.5–2 mg/L rather than 3–4 mg/L may reduce aeration energy by:
a. 5–10 percent
b. 10–15 percent
c. 15–30 percent
d. 40–60 percent
Engineering Solutions for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: A Critical Review of Separation and Destruction Technologies
Ram Prasad
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination has become one of the defining challenges in environmental engineering due to the remarkable persistence of these compounds. Their resistance to natural degradation, coupled with widespread use in industrial and consumer applications, has resulted in global contamination of drinking water sources. In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized national drinking water standards for six PFAS, with enforceable maximum contaminant levels in the range of 4 to 10 ng/L. Achieving such stringent standards requires more than conventional separation; it demands the development of robust, integrated treatment trains that can both concentrate and destroy PFAS. Engineers must therefore adopt a critical perspective that balances separation efficiency, destruction feasibility, cost, environmental considerations, and regulatory defensibility.
This article evaluates key separation and destruction technologies—foam fractionation (FF), supercritical water oxidation, ultraviolet (UV)-activated advanced reduction processes, electrochemical oxidation, plasma and photochemical systems, and incineration—with an emphasis on their engineering application in drinking water treatment.
Foam Fractionation as a Separation Technology
The FF has reemerged as a viable approach for PFAS removal from drinking water because it leverages the amphiphilic nature of PFAS molecules. When air or another gas is sparged into contaminated water, PFAS partition preferentially to the bubble surface and migrate upward to form a stable foam, which is skimmed from the column. This process reduces the treated water volume while generating a highly concentrated PFAS residual stream. Studies
consistently report that FF is particularly effective for long-chain PFAS, such as perfluorooctyl sulfonate, perfluorooctanoic acid, and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid, with removals exceeding 90 percent under optimized conditions (Foam Fractionation Review, n.d.). Shorter-chain PFAS, however, are less efficiently captured due to their lower interfacial activity and stronger hydration shells. Recent research has explored the addition of cationic surfactants to enhance short-chain capture, but this introduces secondary chemicals that complicate regulatory acceptance for potable systems (Lee et al., 2024).
From an engineering perspective, the sizing of FF units should be guided by the desired concentration factor (CF), rather than percentage removal alone. Engineers typically aim for foamate blowdown ratios between 0.1 and 2 percent of the influent volume, balancing achievable CF with foam stability and operational feasibility. Critical design parameters include superficial gas velocity, bubble size distribution, and column height, which determine mass transfer efficiency. Feedwater characteristics, particularly total dissolved solids, natural organic matter (NOM), and competing surfactants strongly influence foam stability, and therefore, system performance. Pretreatment may be required in waters with high NOM or oils that disrupt bubble formation.
The FF compares favorably to other separation technologies in certain scenarios. While activated carbon and ion exchange (IX) are proven, they rely on adsorption processes that eventually require regeneration or replacement, generating solid or liquid waste. Membrane systems, such as nanofiltration or reverse osmosis, achieve near-complete PFAS removal, but create large volumes of concentrated brine that require disposal. By contrast, FF minimizes chemical inputs and provides a liquid residual that is already preconcentrated for destruction. Nevertheless, FF must often be coupled with a polishing step, such as IX or membranes, to meet stringent short-chain PFAS targets,
making it a component, rather than a standalone solution (Ling et al., 2025).
Supercritical Water Oxidation for PFAS Destruction
Supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) represents one of the most mature and effective destruction technologies for PFAS. Operating above water’s critical point (374°C, 22.1 megapascals {MPas]), SCWO creates a single supercritical phase where organic contaminants, oxidants, and water mix completely, leading to extremely fast oxidation kinetics. Under these conditions, PFAS are mineralized to carbon dioxide, hydrogen fluoride, and inorganic salts. Laboratory and pilot-scale demonstrations have shown greater than 99.9 percent destruction of target PFAS, along with nearly complete reduction in total organofluorine (Webb et al., 2025).
The engineering design of SCWO systems must account for several critical challenges. Salt precipitation is a primary concern, as the supercritical phase does not dissolve salts effectively. Engineers must integrate salt separators, hydrocyclones, or brine removal systems to prevent deposition and plugging in high-temperature zones. Hydrogen fluoride generation poses a serious corrosion risk, requiring the use of nickel-based alloys or titanium for reactor construction, along with alkali buffering to neutralize acids in situ. Energy integration is also central to cost control, as countercurrent heat exchangers can recover energy from effluent streams, reducing the need for external heating. Despite these measures, SCWO systems remain capital intensive and operation costs are dominated by compression, pumping, oxygen supply, and corrosion control.
Continued on page 36
Ram Prasad is senior technical specialist with McKim & Creed in Lithia.
DRIVING WATER FORWARD
Planning and designing water and wastewater infrastructure for long-term reliability.
Nevertheless, SCWO is particularly well-suited for treating highly concentrated PFAS waste streams generated by separation processes, such as FF or IX. Its ability to rapidly mineralize PFAS with verifiable mass balance closure makes it, from a regulatory perspective, among the most defensible destruction pathways (EPA, 2024).
Ultraviolet/Sulfite and Ultraviolet/Persulfate Advanced Reduction Processes
The UV-activated advanced reduction processes (UV-ARP) represent a flexible set of technologies for PFAS destruction. The UV/sulfite process generates hydrated electrons under alkaline conditions, which are highly reductive and capable of cleaving strong carbon-fluorine bonds. The UV/persulfate, in contrast, generates sulfate radicals, which are powerful oxidants. Sequential application of UV/persulfate followed by UV/sulfite has
Technology Sizing Basis
Foam Fractionation (FF)
Ion Exchange (IX)
Membranes (NF/RO)
been shown to enhance treatment of complex matrices by first oxidizing scavenging organics and then applying reductive cleavage to PFAS (Fennell et al., 2024).
From an engineering standpoint, UVARP reactors must be designed around absorbed fluence, rather than an incident UV dose, with water’s UV transmittance and path length determining actual photon delivery. The presence of NOM, alkalinity, and hardness strongly affects reagent demand and energy efficiency. Engineers must therefore carefully optimize sulfite or persulfate dosing, sometimes codosing iodide to accelerate defluorination. Reactor configurations can employ low- or medium-pressure lamps, with baffling and mixing to minimize dark zones. Residence times of several hours are often required for challenging concentrates, limiting throughput.
Electrochemical Oxidation
Electrochemical oxidation, particularly using boron-doped diamond (BDD)
electrodes, has demonstrated significant potential for PFAS destruction. The BDD electrodes generate hydroxyl radicals and peroxydisulfate at the anode surface, which can attack PFAS molecules. Laboratory studies report high degradation rates across several PFAS classes; however, engineering challenges limit large-scale adoption. Current density and mass transfer are critical factors, as insufficient mixing or scaling of electrodes can result in uneven performance. The formation of byproducts, such as chlorate and perchlorate, is another concern, especially when treating chloride-containing waters.
Electrochemical oxidation is highly energy intensive, with operating costs driven by electricity demand. While this may be prohibitive for full-scale water treatment, the technology shows promise for small-volume, high-strength PFAS waste streams. Modular reactor designs and advances in electrode materials may improve efficiency, but for now, electrochemical systems remain niche solutions in drinking water treatment (Houtz et al., 2024).
Compression; oxygen supply; corrosion control
Lamp power; sulfite cost
Lamp power; persulfate
Electricity; electrode scaling
Power supply; electrode wear
Furnace temp >1100°C; residence time Moisture; solids matrix Fuel; air pollution control
Verification Metrics
PFAS speciation; foamate PFAS mass balance
Breakthrough curves; regenerant load
PFAS rejection (%); concentrate PFAS load
Defluorination (F); TOF/EOF closure
Target PFAS decay; fluoride yield
PFAS kinetics; fluoride yield
PFAS decay; byproduct speciation
PFAS removal; HF in off-gas
PFAS destruction verification
Plasma and Photochemical Technologies
Nonthermal plasma and photochemical methods offer alternative approaches to PFAS destruction. Plasma systems generate a mixture of reactive species—including radicals, photons, and energetic electrons— that can degrade PFAS at ambient temperature and pressure (Topolovec et al., 2024). Photochemical processes, including vacuum UV photolysis and photocatalysis using materials such as titanium dioxide, bismuth phosphate, or doped semiconductors, provide another pathway for direct cleavage of CF bonds (Capodaglio, 2025).
From an engineering perspective, these technologies face significant challenges. Plasma reactors must maximize the gas–liquid contact area, often using thin films or microbubble interfaces, to achieve efficient transfer of reactive species. Electrode erosion and maintenance add to operating costs. Photochemical reactors are highly sensitive to NOM and dissolved salts, which absorb photons and scavenge radicals. Energy demand per gram of PFAS destroyed is currently high compared to SCWO or UVARP. As such, plasma and photochemical methods are best suited as polishing steps for small-volume concentrates, rather than mainline drinking water treatment.
Table 1. Engineering Design Checklist for PFAS Separation and Destruction
Incineration and Thermal Destruction
High-temperature incineration remains an essential tool for managing PFAS-contaminated solids, such as spent granular activated carbon (GAC) or IX resins. Effective destruction requires furnace temperatures above 1,100°C, with sufficient residence time and oxygen supply to ensure complete combustion. The primary engineering challenges include hydrogen fluoride (HF) emissions, which must be captured in scrubbing systems, and the potential formation of products of incomplete combustion. Public concerns over air emissions have also increased regulatory scrutiny, requiring utilities to document emissions and ensure robust air pollution controls (EPA, 2024). Incineration is therefore best viewed as a backstop technology for solids, rather than a solution for liquid PFAS waste streams.
Integrated Treatment Trains
No single technology provides a universal solution for PFAS in drinking water. The most effective strategy is a concentrate-anddestroy architecture. The FF provides lowenergy separation and generates a manageable concentrate. Membranes or IX may polish short-chain PFAS that pass through the FF. Destruction of the concentrate can then be achieved through SCWO or UV-ARP, with electrochemical and plasma methods filling niche roles. Solid waste is directed to incineration.
Engineering Design Checklist and Comparative Tables
To guide implementation, engineers require systematic design considerations. Table 1 provides a design checklist across separation and destruction technologies, emphasizing sizing basis, sensitivities, operating cost drivers, and verification needs.
Conclusion
The PFAS remediation requires a holistic engineering approach that integrates separation and destruction technologies. The FF offers a promising separation option, particularly for long-chain PFAS, while SCWO delivers robust destruction of concentrates. The UVARP provides a flexible chemical pathway, and electrochemical, plasma, and photochemical methods expand the toolkit for specialized applications. Incineration remains critical for solids management.
Direct C–F cleavage; modular High pH; NOM scavenging
Effective oxidant; NOM control Residual sulfate; partial mineralization
In situ oxidants; modular Energy demand; electrode fouling
Ambient operation
Energy cost; NOM effects
Low chemical use Scaling immaturity; NOM effects
Incineration >99% (solids) Proven; regulatory acceptance Air emissions; solids only
3. Conceptual Treatment Train Options for Drinking Water Utilities
Train Separation Destruction
A FF + IX polish
UV-Sulfite/UVPersulfate
B RO/NF SCWO of concentrate
Best Fit Scenario
Surface waters with high long-chain PFAS and moderate NOM
Groundwater with high PFAS loads; utilities with pressure expertise
C FF + GAC polish Plasma/Photochemical Dilute influent PFAS, pilot-scale research
D IX Offsite incineration
The challenge for engineers is to integrate these technologies into verifiable, cost-effective treatment trains that can meet stringent regulatory standards while ensuring long-term sustainability.
References
• Bentel, M. J., et al. (2020). Degradation of Perfluoroalkyl Ether Carboxylic Acids by UVSulfite: Structure–Reactivity Relationships. Environmental Science & Technology.
• Capodaglio, A. (2025). Advances in Photocatalytic Degradation of PFAS: Prospects and Challenges. Science of the Total Environment.
• EPA (2024). Interim Guidance on the Destruction and Disposal of PFAS and PFASContaining Materials. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, April 2024.
• Foam Fractionation Review (n.d.). Foam Fractionation for the Removal of PFAS From Aqueous Matrices: A Review.
• Fennell, B. D., Chavez, S., and McKay, G. (2024). Destruction of PFAS in Reverse Osmosis Concentrate Using UV-Persulfate
Small systems lacking onsite destruction
Preoxidation and UV-Sulfite Treatment. ACS ES&T Water, 4(11), 4818–4827.
• Houtz, E., et al. (2024). Electrochemical Oxidation of PFAS Using Boron-Doped Diamond Electrodes: Opportunities and Challenges. Journal of Hazardous Materials.
• Lee, C.-S., et al. (2024). Surfactant-Assisted Foam Fractionation for Short-Chain PFAS Removal. Chemosphere.
• Ling, M., et al. (2025). Spent Media Management Pathways for PFAS Treatment Applications.
• Topolovec, B., et al. (2024). PFAS Degradation by Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets. Journal of Hazardous Materials.
• Webb, H., et al. (2025). Supercritical Water Oxidation of PFAS Concentrates: Performance and Challenges. Cleaner Engineering and Technology. S
Table
Table 2. Engineering Design Checklist for PFAS Separation and Destruction
Department, St. Augustine
Work title and years of service.
I have worked for the St. Johns County Utility Department for 21 years in several different roles. I began my career as an engineer for capital improvements, and progressed to chief engineer - capital improvements and chief engineer - development, and since 2023 have served as the assistant utility director of operations.
What does your job entail?
As the assistant utility director of operations, I oversee functional operations of the utility, which include water/wastewater treatment, distribution maintenance, lift stations, plant maintenance, and supervisory control and data acquisition. I have an outstanding team that consists of three managers and approximately 120 employees.
In my role I focus on implementing and maintaining programs that improve operational efficiency and safety, along with recruitment and retention for our teams. While no two days
FWRJ READER PROFILE
are alike, I often spend time working with my teams through operational issues, ensuring they have the resources needed to resolve issues quickly. I also focus on ensuring that we have efficient and effective communications with our stakeholders.
I am also often found working with our leadership team to improve operational programs and strategies to meet the utility’s goals. This often includes coordinating with other county departments to address human resources, legal, and administrative items.
What education and training have you had?
I began my professional education at Pasco-Hernando Community College (PHCC) where I obtained my associate in arts degree. Initially I was exploring several career options, but found myself drawn to engineering and sciences during my time at PHCC. I transferred into the environmental engineering sciences program at the University of Florida (UF) where I obtained a bachelor’s of science degree in environmental engineering sciences (Go Gators!). Initially my goal was to pursue a career in environmental remediation; however, while at UF I realized I was fascinated by hydraulics and water and wastewater treatment processes. I then shifted my direction toward the utility industry and ultimately earned my professional engineering license in civil engineering.
What do you like best about your job?
I have enjoyed different aspects of the roles that I have served, but the most rewarding for me has been building teams and programs that benefit our employees and communities. When I started my role as the assistant director for the utility, I had the opportunity to take a leading role in developing a career path program for our staff. It was very rewarding seeing the program
come together to greatly improve training, career, and compensation progression for our teams. It has made a striking improvement in our employee retention and recruitment and has improved our employees’ lives.
What professional organizations do you belong to?
I have been an active member of both FSAWWA and FWEA for almost 24 years.
How have the organizations helped your career?
I have served on the regional and association levels for FSAWWA. I started on the steering committee and served my way through the officer ranks of Region II, serving as region chair from 2016 to 2018. Following my service on the Region II Steering Committee, I served as the Membership Engagement Committee chair and now serve as the Membership Engagement Development Council (MEDC) chair for the Florida Section. Being active and serving in FSAWWA has provided me many opportunities to polish my leadership and communication skills over the years, but more importantly, it has allowed me to meet other professionals and build my network. We truly have great people that work in our industry and volunteer with FSAWWA. I always encourage younger professionals (utility or not) to join their appropriate professional organizations, to be active, and to engage in opportunities as they arise.
What do you like best about the industry?
I love working in the water utility industry. I think it is one of the most noble professions as we literally provide life-sustaining services to our communities. Working for a utility there are always new challenges and opportunities for success, whether it be completing a project, sustaining and improving critical operations, or building structured teams to ensure succession for the future.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I enjoy spending time with my family. I have two high school-aged daughters, one of which will be graduating this year and heading to the University of Central Florida in the fall, so we are trying to make memories while they are both at home.
We love travelling! We have a western Caribbean cruise planned for spring break, and a trip to London and Dublin planned for this summer to celebrate my daughter’s graduation. When I am not running around with my family, I also enjoy spending time in nature, whether it is hiking trails or occasionally kayaking. S
FSAWWA receiving a Membership Section Challenge prize at the AWWA Membership Summit in Denver in recognition for our membership engagement efforts in 2025.
Giving Back: Funding Programs That Serve the Water Industry
ATyler Tedcastle Chair, FSAWWA
long with volunteers, sponsorships are essential for running successful events. Before every technical seminar, networking event, and fundraiser, FSAWWA’s volunteers are tasked with requesting sponsorships to help with the offset costs of holding the event and to help with the fundraising. When talking with sponsors, the first questions are always “Where does the money go?” or “What is the charity or philanthropy?”
While each organization has its own
charities to donate to, FSAWWA elects to raise funds for the following:
S FSAWWA Roy Likins Scholarship
S Water Equation
S Water For People
The names of each of these programs, and the organizations from which the funds are raised, are included on all advertisements for the events. While some regions have regional sponsorships and others sponsor individual events, we are grateful for all of the companies, individuals, and sponsors who participate and help fundraise for FSAWWA events.
Roy W. Likins Scholarship
This scholarship was created by FSAWWA for college students to pursue a degree, and ultimately, a career, in the water industry, awarding the first scholarship in 1988. In 1991
it was named to honor Roy Likins, who was a lifelong member of AWWA.
Roy served as president of Palm Coast Utility Corporation for six years and served the utility in various capacities for 16 years. He was a leader in the water industry, serving as chair of Region 9 of FWPCOA and on various state committees, with the primary focus on education and training. In 1972, he hosted the Florida Water Resources Conference and later served as secretary/treasurer and chair of the Florida Section. In 1982, he received the prestigious AWWA George Warren Fuller Award.
Since the creation of the award, FSAWWA has provided scholarships to over 180 students from 13 universities. These scholarships started at $1,000 per student. As the donations from the regions and the section increased, the board of governors voted to increase both the number of scholarships and the total awards, with awards now ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 per student.
This past year, FSAWWA awarded $55,000 in scholarships to 10 students at five Florida universities:
S Jose Camacho (Florida Atlantic University)
S Nimisha Gautam (University of South Florida)
S Grayson Geiger (University of Florida)
S Jennifer Hanapole (Florida Atlantic University)
S Sebastian Hernandez (Florida Atlantic University)
S David Katz (University of Central Florida)
S Nimna Madurangi Marakkata Manage (University of Central Florida)
S Sabrina Roggero (Florida Polytechnic University)
S Mileisha Velazquez (University of Florida)
S Maedeh Yazdani Arani (University of South Florida)
Applications for the 2026 Likins Scholarship will be open soon to students. Please consider applying for these and other AWWA scholarships.
Water Equation
The AWWA Water Equation (WE) was founded in 2015 to “fund the future of water” by supporting and funding
Region X kayaking fundraiser for WE Walk.
Region III Water Equation poker tournament.
workforce advancement, scholarships, young professionals, and helping undefunded communities within the United States. Specifically, WE helps fund the following programs:
One AWWA Operator Scholarship
The WE addresses the issue of a retiring workforce through its One AWWA Operator Scholarship. Matching funds to AWWA sections provide books, tuition, education, and certification training to operators at water and wastewater treatment facilities.
Academic Scholarships
The AWWA academic scholarship program is a partnership with corporations to provide educational funding for students who want to join the water industry. Funds are raised by WE for the Abel Wolman Fellowship and Larson Scholarship, while the bulk of the scholarships are funded by corporate partners.
Youth, Student, and Young Professional Programs
The WE provides funding for youth, student, and young professionals programs. It also funds the annual AWWA Young Professionals (YP) Leader Training Day, which is held one day ahead of the YP Summit to provide networking and professional development for the next generation. Additionally, one of WE’s newest programs
is Women for Water Circle of Giving, which provides funding for youth programming in the water industry for students in grades K-12.
The FSAWWA regularly supports WE by participating in WE Walk, which raises funds for the AWWA Transformative Water Leadership Academy and young professionals. Volunteers raise money by logging miles through running, walking, kayaking, biking, etc. The section had the highest fundraising in the U.S., with $10,600 for WE, and placed second by logging 4,696 miles. In total, FSAWWA raised and donated over $20,000 for WE in 2025.
Water For People
Water For People was born out of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), the largest nonprofit, scientific, and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water. Founded in 1991, Water
For People helps developing countries improve the quality of life by supporting sustainable drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene projects. Water For People provides funding and technical assistance using an extensive network of volunteers, donors, and partner organizations. With the commitment to help people help themselves, Water For People has supported over 500 projects in 40 countries worldwide.
The regions regularly hold events throughout the year to raise money for Water For People, including various networking events, such as “Wine for Water,” clay shoots, and fishing trips, to name a few. This year FSAWWA raised and donated $100,000 to Water For People.
For more information about any of these programs, go to www.fsawwa.org and www. awwa.org. S
Region II fishing tournament benefiting Water For People.
Region VII annual Water For People fundraiser.
CONTRACTORS ROUNDUP
FSAWWA Fall Conference Recap: Workshop on Career Paths in Collaborative Delivery
The 2025 FSAWWA Fall Conference included a well-received workshop on how collaborative delivery (CD) is shaping the next generation of careers in the water industry. The session featured three panelists who shared their experiences working across disciplines and how those opportunities have influenced their professional growth:
S Kassidy King, City of Winter Haven
S Bianca Pulver, Wade Trim
S Eric Komanowski, Archer Western Construction
How They Got Started in Collaborative Delivery
Each panelist began by describing how they first stepped into a CD environment.
S Kassidy King explained that getting involved early in collaborative projects helped her understand not just her own role, but how design, construction, and owner priorities connect. That broader view changed how she communicates and approaches problem solving.
S Bianca Pulver talked about starting her career on a more traditional engineering path. Once she moved into CD work, she quickly saw how
early alignment and trust between partners makes a big difference, especially for teams bringing new professionals on board.
Learning Across Disciplines
A major theme from the workshop was how much CD speeds up learning. Instead of working in isolated roles, people get daily exposure to different viewpoints.
S Kassidy pointed out that younger team members gain constructability, cost, and scheduling awareness much earlier than they would on a traditional project.
S Bianca described how working closely with contractors changed the way she designs, making her work more buildable and efficient.
S Eric added that when engineers understand utility constraints and contractors understand operational impacts, the whole team makes better decisions.
Challenges That Lead to Growth
The group also discussed some of the practical challenges of CD. Different disciplines bring different priorities, which can create friction. The panelists agreed, however, that this is also where some of the best growth happens.
Kassidy noted that learning to work through differences is a key leadership skill.
Bianca said that the tough conversations often led to the strongest working relationships.
Eric emphasized that shifting from a “contractual” mindset to a “team outcome”
mindset takes effort, but once it happens, projects and people both improve.
Advice for Young Professionals
When offering guidance to younger attendees, all three panelists shared similar points:
S Be curious. Ask questions and try to understand what other disciplines are dealing with.
S Get involved. Show up to meetings, listen to how decisions get made, and speak up when appropriate.
S Be willing to stretch. Volunteer for tasks that push you outside your comfort zone.
Looking Ahead
To close the session, the panelists talked about where they see CD heading. All three agreed that future project teams will need people who can blend technical knowledge with communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Workshop participants.
Workshop facilitator Charles Tofferi, with Petticoat Schmitt.
Panelists (left to right) Kassidy King, Eric Komanowski, and Bianca Pulver.
Environmental Stewardship: Year Two
Kevin Shopshire President, FWPCOA
very year, I plant a tree (or several trees) in my world, depending on the number of trees made available to me. My personal favorite is the Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum). Sometimes trees thrive on their own; sometimes they thrive with constant care. Sometimes the trees don’t survive, no matter what you do. And sometimes the trees are cut down—purposely or accidentally.
Do you know what trees never survive?
So what’s this got to do with a C Factor column for operators?
The Environment and You
Last year, in March, I wrote about how each of our disciplines related back to environmental stewardship. I hope you all took the time to read it. If not, the article is probably on your desk, in a stack of publications, waiting for your attention (it’s also at www.fwrj.com). I’ll pause while you go find and read it, or reread it.
As a refresher, environmental stewardship can be defined as follows:
“The responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices to enhance ecosystem resilience and human well-being.”
Our career fields in this industry, whether water, wastewater, stormwater, or industrial pretreatment; require specific training. This training makes us uniquely qualified to understand the impact of our careers on protecting different aspects of our environment. We are the “trained professionals” in our fields.
Right now, there are many legislative bills being submitted, reviewed, and considered in Tallahassee. These bills aren’t always written, supported, or even thought up by professionals in the fields of water, wastewater, stormwater, or industrial pretreatment; however, they can have a huge impact on our career fields, our treatment plants, and/or our municipalities or companies.
So now we, as trained professionals, have the opportunity to plant a tree—of suggestion—whether supportive or not, of the
This is a Bald Cypress I planted 21 years ago in Oldsmar that’s thrived on its own.
A Balf Cypress sprout.
legislative efforts. As I stated, we are trained professionals. If you see a bill suggesting change to your area of expertise, plant a tree by speaking up.
S Talk to your supervisor.
S Offer advice or support, positive or negative, using your knowledge base.
S Send an email to whomever is the next level above you.
Don’t just complain though; offer suggestions or your knowledge of the effects of the legislation.
As stated before, your tree (suggestion) may require support (follow-up), it may require care (networking and knowledgebased support), or may thrive on its own.
Your tree may also be cut down by someone else, but if you did not plant the tree, it never stood a chance, and you’ll be subject to stand under a tree planted by someone else. Sometimes someone else’s tree may end up being a thorny bush, or no tree at all, just a deserted landscape, benefiting someone else.
What kind of environment do you want to work in and support? What kind of tree do you want to stand under?
All legislation is available on the state’s website, easily searchable using words or phrases.
FWPCOA Committees
This month I’d also like to spotlight our FWPCOA Awards and Citations Committee. Ms. Renee Moticker, chair of Region 7 (Southeast Florida), has also been the chair of this committee for many years. The committee develops the criteria for all awards and citations given by the association and coordinates the work of selection committees to review applications and nominations for these awards. Most awards are coordinated with the chair who oversees that section (water, wastewater, etc.).
The FWPCOA has many award opportunities to recognize your colleagues or coworkers for their achievements or efforts in our lines of work. A full list of awards is available, with descriptions and due dates, at www.fwpcoa.org; click on the menu heading “About” then “Awards.” You can also email Renee about awards or getting involved to assist her committee at awards@ fwpcoa.org.
Remember, if all else fails, plant a tree. S
What Do You Know About Water Treatment Arithmetic? Test Yourself
Charlie Lee Martin Jr., Ph.D.
1. The detention time of a reaction basin with a diameter of 20 feet wide and 6 feet deep that treats a flow of 380,000 gallons per day is
a. 100 minutes.
b. 30 minutes.
c. 70 minutes.
d. 53.4 minutes.
2. The dose of potassium permanganate in milligrams per liter for a well with 4 mg/l iron before aeration and 0.6 mg/l after aeration wherein the manganese concentration is 0.8 mg/l before and after aeration is
a. 1.72 mg/l. b. 2.00 mg/l.
c. 1.50 mg/l. d. none of the above.
3. The carbonate hardness of water with an alkalinity of 160 mg/l as calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and the total hardness is 115 mg/l as CaCO
3 is
a. 115 mg/l.
b. 160 mg/l.
c. 45 mg/l.
d. none of the above.
4. The noncarbonate hardness of water with an alkalinity of 120 mg/l as CaCO3 and the total hardness is 80 mg/l as CaCO3 is
a. 40 mg/l.
b. 0 mg/l.
c. 120 mg/l.
d. none of the above.
5. The noncarbonate hardness of water with an alkalinity of 105 mg/l as CaCO3 and the total hardness is 160 mg/l as CaCO3 is
a. 80 mg/l.
b. 30 mg/l.
c. 55 mg/l.
d. none of the above.
6. The amount of soda ash required to remove 60 mg/l of noncarbonate hardness as CaCO3 from water to be treated with a flow of 2.9 million gallons per day (mgd) is
a. 1548 lbs/day.
b. 1000 lbs/day.
c. 500 lbs/day.
d. none of the above.
7. The dosage of lime (lbs/day) treating water with a flow of 2.8 mgd with a concentration of 165 mg/l is
a. 1700 lbs/day.
b. 1500 lbs/day.
c. 3853 lbs/day.
d. none of the above.
8. The hardness in milligrams per liter for water with a hardness of 19 grains is
a. 180 mg/l.
b. 325 mg/l.
c. 150 mg/l.
d. none of the above.
9. The exchange capacity in grains of hardness for an ion exchange unit that contains 800 cubic feet of resin with a removal capacity of 20,000 grains is a. 5,000,000 grains of hardness.
b. 10,000,000 grains of hardness. c. 16,000,000 grains of hardness.
d. none of the above.
10. The number of gallons of water with a hardness of 19 grains per gallon that may be treated by an ion exchange softener with an exchange capacity of 17,000,000 grains is
a. 894,736 gallons. b. 900,000 gallons.
c. 700,000 gallons. d. none of the above.
Answers on page 66
References used for this quiz: Formulas can be found in the appendix of CSUS Water Treatment Plant Operation Volume II , 3th edition
Last Chance to Submit PFAS Settlement Claims Approaches in 2026
Florida utilities that miss deadlines could lose access to millions in funding
Ken Sansone and Kyla Tengdin
Public drinking water systems in the United States have been given a once-in-a-generation opportunity to recover the costs of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) impacts. In 2023, through the Aqueous Film-Forming Foam Multidistrict Litigation (AFFF MDL) against PFAS manufacturers, approximately $14 billion was set aside to help municipal drinking water systems mitigate PFAS in their source water as part of settlements with manufacturers 3M and DuPont.
The opportunity for water systems to submit certain claims to these funds will expire in 2026.
Structure of the Settlements
The settlements from the manufacturers were structured in two phases:
S Phase One, for water systems that had already detected PFAS in their source water by the end of June 2023.
S Phase Two, for water systems that did not detect PFAS in their water (any PFAS, at any concentration) until later, as long as they serve more than 3,300 people.
Throughout the U.S., water systems that submitted claims as part of Phase One have started receiving initial payments. Unlike the typical class action suit that offers very small amounts to individual claimants, the AFFF MDL has secured real money that will help thousands of U.S. water systems offset costs to remove PFAS from their drinking water and achieve compliance with the new National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for PFAS from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The Clock is Ticking for Phase Two Systems
Phase Two water systems (again, those that did not detect any PFAS until after June 2023) still have the opportunity to submit their claims—but time is running out. While all eligible public water systems are included in the PFAS settlement (unless they deliberately opted out to preserve their right to file suit in the future), the payments are not automatic. Only systems that perform the required testing and file complete claims documentation by the official deadlines will be eligible for compensation.
Those hoping to receive settlement
payouts should start immediately on the following steps to avoid missing out.
Step 1: Conduct PFAS Testing at Every Wellhead or Surface Water Intake
Before a water utility can submit a settlement claim, it should first test for PFAS at each individual wellhead or surface water intake. Some may assume that existing data from the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR-5), an EPA program that requires public water systems to test their drinking water for a list of unregulated contaminants, will suffice; however, the UCMR-5 required testing only at the entry points to the distribution system (i.e., treated water bound for area homes and businesses), rather than the sources themselves. Because of this distinction, many systems will need to carry out additional testing at each water source to meet the data requirements for settlement claims.
Testing results are a required component of the claims documentation, so water systems will need to build in appropriate time to conduct testing and receive reports in time to meet the Action Fund deadlines.
For many utilities, these expenses can reach tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the number of wells and surface water intakes. The settlements provide an opportunity to recover those costs (even if no PFAS are detected), but the deadline to submit a claim for reimbursement of PFAS testing costs is March 31, 2026. The claim must include complete documentation of sampling, analysis, and related expenditures, so water systems should move quickly to complete testing and prepare their submissions.
Missing this deadline will not prevent a system from submitting claims to the settlements due to the actual presence of PFAS (Action Fund claims)—only a claim to get reimbursed for testing costs.
Step 2: Act Now to Meet the 2026 Action Fund Deadlines
Water systems that remained in the
settlements, but fail to meet the required testing or filing deadlines, will lose eligibility for any settlement funds and permanently give up the right to pursue future legal action against 3M or DuPont for PFAS contamination in their drinking water. To protect their eligibility and access to potential funding, it is essential for water systems to stay proactive and on schedule with all settlement requirements.
To secure a share of the $14 billion settlements, which could be in the tens of millions of dollars for a single water system, claims must be submitted by July 31, 2026, for both 3M and DuPont settlements. Claims submissions require substantial data, including baseline PFAS testing results for each water source, as well as documentation of the production capacity and annual production of each source.
These claims cover both past and anticipated future damages based on confirmed PFAS contamination.
Step 3: Seek Additional Funding for Expenses Already Incurred
Many municipalities and utilities already have spent, or are in the process of spending, significant funds to address PFAS contamination. Examples include taking contaminated wells offline, constructing treatment facilities, drilling new wells, or purchasing replacement water to maintain safe service. A water system that will have spent money on efforts to address PFAS detections in its impacted water sources by Aug. 1, 2026, can submit a claim to receive additional funding under the special needs fund.
These claims are distinct from the primary Action Fund claims and can provide additional recovery beyond what’s available under the funds from the main settlements. Applicants must supply detailed documentation demonstrating both the necessity of the project and the associated costs. For proactive municipalities and utilities that have already invested in PFAS mitigation, this program provides a critical chance to recover unexpected or extraordinary expenses related to protecting public health and water quality.
Navigating the claims process can be complex, but the reward can be substantial— and it represents an important opportunity to hold PFAS polluters accountable. Cities in Florida and across the U.S. in the first phase of the water settlements have already received eight- and nine-figure payouts, demonstrating the scale of potential recovery available to water systems affected by
contamination. To ensure their communities are not left behind, municipal and utility leaders should work closely with legal counsel and technical advisors to manage their action plan and the requirements of the settlements, including eligibility review, analysis, strategy, and documentation.
Time is critical: delaying action could jeopardize or limit recovery opportunities,
and each month that passes narrows the window to claim these funds and shift the financial burden from citizens to polluters.
Ken Sansone is a senior partner at SL Environmental Law Group in Concord, N.H. Kyla Tengdin is marketing manager, education and outreach, with SL Environmental Law Group in Minnetonka, Minn. S
Managing Water Systems Under Climate Uncertainty: What Will the Future Hold?
Robert G. Maliva and Scott Manahan
The major assets of public and private water systems have been designed under the assumption of stationarity—that climate and environmental conditions will not materially change over the operational lives of key components. The climate of Florida, however— and the rest of the world—has been changing at an accelerating rate and future conditions will likely be outside the historical norms of the past century.
The general risks of climate change are well documented in technical literature.
S Rising sea levels pose a threat of permanent inundation and increased temporary flooding of coastal areas and salinization of aquifers.
S Rising water tables will impact low-lying, near-coastal areas not directly impacted by saline water flooding.
S Increased temperatures will result in greater evapotranspiration, and thus, irrigation water demands.
S Warmer sea surface temperatures may increase the intensification of hurricanes and their associated wind and storm surge damage.
Optimizing investments in water supply assets requires projections of the likely occurrence, direction, magnitude, and timing of climate changes relative to planning horizons and the expected operational lives of infrastructure assets.
There is now extraordinarily voluminous and growing literature on climate change. In 2021, an average of 135.2 publications referring to climate change or global warming were published every day (De-Gol et al., 2023). Despite all the publications, news reports, and internet sites and stories, there is commonly a dearth of specific, actionable information that can guide local planning. In the water sector, a key issue is how may water supplies and demands change as a result of climate change over the next 20 to 40 years and how much sea level will likely rise and potentially impact coastal infrastructure.
A review was performed of recent climate change and sea level rise data to elucidate most likely future conditions and plausible worst-case (i.e., low-probability, but high-impact) conditions in Florida.
(source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [NOAA], Climate.gov., adapted from IPCC AR6, Technical Summary, Figure TS.4)
Robert G. Maliva is principal hydrogeologist and Scott Manahan is senior vice president with WSP USA Inc. in Fort Myers.
Climate Change Prediction Basics
Climate changes and sea level rise in the near term (over the next two to three decades) can be projected by extrapolating rates and accelerations obtained from historical data, and in the longer term, by modeling (Sweet et al., 2022). Future climate conditions are simulated using general circulation models (GCMs) or earth system models, which are highly complex, global-scale models that incorporate the main elements of the global atmosphere, land surface, ocean, and sea ice systems. The main input into the models is the past, present, and projected future concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as carbon dioxide and methane. The basic modeling procedure is to calibrate models by hindcasting— running the models using historical GHG data and adjusting the models so that predicted past climate conditions approximately match recorded historical conditions. Once a model is adequately calibrated, predictive simulations (forecasts) are run using predicted future GHG scenarios.
Predicted future climate conditions depend upon both the model and GHG scenario(s) used. To understand the causes of uncertainties in climate change predictions related to the models, it is useful for the various modeling groups to run simulations using the same set of future GHG scenarios. The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) of the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) is an international collaborative effort involving numerous climate modeling groups to examine uncertainties in GCM projections (CMIP, 2005). The CMIP phases are very important in that their results informed the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and other international and national climate assessments. Standard sets of model simulations were run using the same set of GHG emissions and development scenarios. The representation of key processes that impact climate and model resolution have improved over successive CMIP phases.
The latest CMIP phase (CMIP6) used five
Figure 1. Possible future pathways for yearly global carbon dioxide emissions (left) and the resulting atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations (right) through the end of the century for the five SSPs.
shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs), which are storylines of projected socioeconomic global changes up to 2100 (Figure 1). The five SSPs (SSP1 through SSP5) range from a sustainable, high-mitigation future (SSP1) to a continued high economic growth and fossil fuel-intensive future (SSP5; Riahi et al., 2017). The SSPs names are often combined with the 2100 level of radiative forcing (1.9 to 8.5 W/m2). The higher emissions scenarios, as would be expected, result in higher predicted future temperatures.
The modeled divergence in atmospheric GHG concentrations and differences in predicted climate conditions between the SSPs increase over time, particularly after 2040. For each emissions and development scenario, the corresponding ensemble of CMIP model results define an envelope of future conditions. Median (50th percentile) and other percentile values for parameters can be calculated to illustrate, for example, the range of possible modeled temperatures at a given year in the future.
Probabilities have not been assigned to the SSPs and earlier-used emissions scenarios. There is debate as to which SSP is most likely to occur. Based on the current global political environment, a high mitigation scenario is unlikely. The highest emissions SSP5 8.5 scenario has been proposed to be too extreme and intermediate scenarios (SSP2-4.5, SSP4-6.0, and SSP3-7.0) may be more likely (Hausfather and Peters, 2020). In particular, recent trends and projections of global CO2 emissions are lower than high emissions scenario outlooks due to lesser population, per-capita Gross Domestic Product growth, and carbon intensity than projected (Burgess et al., 2020). For more-accurate local predictions, GCM data need to be downscaled to a finer spatial
scale by creating a finer-grid regional climate model nested in a GCM or by using statistical methods. For modeling impacts to groundwater, the predicted temperature and precipitation data are imported into local groundwater flow models. The impacts of changes in temperature (and thus, evapotranspiration) and precipitation on groundwater recharge and surface water flow are simulated. A cascade of uncertainties exists in which errors in each step of the modeling processes are compounded. Uncertainties include scenario, climate response (predictive capability of models), downscaling, and hydrologic response (Maslin, 2013).
An inconvenience of the projections in IPCC and other reports is that temperature and other climate changes are usually presented relative to an earlier prewarming baseline; however, planning is normally performed based on current conditions and projected changes from current conditions (rather than earlier historical conditions) over the planning period.
Accurate prediction of future climate change is fraught with challenges, but the bulk of the climate modeling results now provides a fairly coherent picture of general future conditions and is an invaluable tool for adaptation planning. Users of this data, however, need to be cognizant of assumptions used (e.g., GHC scenario used), model results presented in the studies (e.g., result from one model versus CMIP ensemble), and the inherent uncertainties in the modeling process.
Florida Climate Change Predictions
Temperature
The U.S. Geological Survey National Climate Change Viewer (NCCV), found at www.usgs. gov/tools/national-climate-change-viewer-nccv,
provides a user-friendly access to temperature and precipitation predictions downscaled to the county scale (Alder and Hostetler, 2013). The CMIP6 multimodel mean results are available for SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5. As an example, the projected temperature increases for Lee County are plotted in Figure 2. For the SSP37.0 scenario, which may be conservatively high, the average annual temperature increase in 2065 relative to 2025 is about 2.5°F, which is about the same increase for the summer and winter average and maximum temperatures. The project changes elsewhere in Florida are similar.
Precipitation
The projected annual precipitation change in Lee County has a lot of variation, but no clear overall trend. The change in simulated average annual precipitation through 2075 is in the range of +3 to -3 in. (Figure 3). The average annual rainfall in Fort Myers is 57.4 in. (National Weather Service, 2025) so the future change will likely be within ± 5 percent of the current mean. The NCCV indicates that central and northern Florida may become somewhat wetter, and for the SSP SSP3-7.0 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, southern Florida may become drier. Maps of seasonal changes in precipitation in Florida show slightly wetter conditions across the state during the winter dry season and a pronounced decrease in rainfall in southern Florida during the summer wet season (Figure 4).
A general prediction for climate change is increased variability. The CMIP6 models predict a robust increase in the intensity and frequency of extreme precipitation events across North America (IPCC 2021, Chapter 11, 1697). Droughts may also become more frequent and intense.
Continued on page 56
Figure 2. Projected average annual temperature change in Lee County with CMIP6 multimodel means.
Figure 3. Projected average annual precipitation change in Lee County with CMIP6 multimodel means.
Evaporative Deficit
Evaporative deficit is the difference between actual and potential evapotranspiration and is thus a measure of aridity or atmospheric water shortage. Increasing evaporative deficit results in decreasing soil moisture, and thus, greater plant stress and irrigation requirements. The NCCV indications for the SSP3-7.0 CMIP6 multimodel means a slight increase in annual evaporative deficit across Florida, with the greatest increase occurring in southern Florida in the summer due to decreased precipitation.
Sea Level Rise
The global sea level rise for 2024 was 0.59 cm (0.23 in.), which was significantly above the expected rate of 0.43 cm/year (Lee, 2025). The Key West gauging station has the longest near-continuous period of record in Florida and is an acceptable proxy for the entire coast of Florida. Extrapolating the historic data for the Key West station forward indicates a sea level rise in 40 years of about 1.25 ft from 2025 levels (Figure 5).
The most recent NOAA sea level rise projections for 2050 and 2100 for the
contiguous United States are summarized in Table 1. The published projections were corrected for a 2025 baseline by subtracting the 0.15 m rise from 2000 to 2025. Projections for the eastern Gulf and southeastern U.S. are close to the contiguous U.S. values. The intermediate-low and intermediate predictions for 2050 are close to the Key West extrapolation.
Likely sea level rise projections do not include ice-sheet-related processes, where quantification is highly uncertain. Greater amounts of global mean sea level rise before 2100 could be caused by earlierthan-projected disintegration of marine ice shelves and other factors (Arias et al., 2021, p. 79).
Areas that will be inundated for various amounts of sea level rise can be approximately mapped using the hydrostatic or “bathtub” approach, which compares future sea level elevation and local land surface elevation. The NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer (www.coast.noaa.gov/slr/#/layer/ slr) is a user-friendly tool that allows a user to zoom in on any area of the U.S. (except Alaska) and visualize areas likely to be permanently inundated or subject to hightide flooding for a user-specified sea level rise. A map for the Fort Myers areas shows that a 2-ft sea level rise would inundate coastal areas and that some inland areas may also experience flooding (Figure 6).
Hurricanes
The frequency and intensity of hurricanes and other tropical cyclones is a complex function of sea surface temperature and other atmospheric and oceanic variables, including wind shear and African dust. Historical trend analysis is complicated by heterogeneities in the data, particularly between the pre- and postsatellite eras, and a natural high degree of variation. Computer models have not had the spatial resolution to accurately simulate tropical storm initiation and intensification (Seneviratne et al., 2021, 1585).
Analysis of tropical cyclone data over a 39-year period indicates that a statistically significant (at 95 percent confidence level) increase in intensity and major storms (Saffir-Simpson categories 3 to 5) has occurred both globally and in the North Atlantic (Kossin et al., 2020). The latest IPCC report concluded that “it is likely that the global frequency of TCs (tropical cyclones) will either decrease or remain essentially unchanged, while it is more likely than not that the frequency of the most
Note: Modified from Sweet et al., 2022, Table 2.3.
Figure 4. Seasonal changes in precipitation,SSP3-7.0 with CMIP6 multimodel means.
Figure 5. Key West monthly sea level rise data (NOAA, 2025) with a superimposed extrapolation to 2070.
Table 1. Sea Level Rise in the Contiguous United States, in Feet, Relative to a 2025 Baseline
intense storms will increase substantially in some ocean basins” (Seneviratne et al., 2021, 1585).
The number of hurricanes may be less or unchanged, but the proportion of intense storms (category 4 and 5) is projected to very likely increase in the North Atlantic, as will maximum wind speed. Florida may not experience more hurricanes, but those that do make landfall will have a greater tendency to be highly damaging major storms. There is also a trend of a decrease in the translation (movement) speed of hurricanes, which results in greater rainfall amounts. The combination of sea level rise, hurricane intensification, and greater rainfall rates will act to elevate future storm surge and freshwater flooding (Seneviratne et al., 2021, 1590-1592).
Discussion
Predictions of future climate conditions in Florida (and elsewhere) have considerable uncertainty because future concentrations of GHGs, the driver of climate change, are unknown, and for each future GHG scenario there is a range of model-predicted changes in temperature, precipitation, and sea level rise. Modeling results using conservatively high, but not extreme, GHG scenarios (e.g., SSP3 7.0) indicate that, while over the next 40 years Florida will become several degrees Fahrenheit warmer, changes in average annual precipitation will be small. A greater projected evaporative deficit indicates that water demands for irrigation will likely increase, resulting in greater water demands, and aquifer recharge may decrease; however, over this time period, the far greater water challenge will continue to be meeting the needs of an increasing population. The latest statewide population medium projections from the Florida Bureau of Economic Research is an increase from 22,634,867 on April 1, 2023, to 28,065,000 in 2050 (Rayer and Comfort, 2024), which equals approximately 5.43 million more people needing to be supplied with water.
Sea level rise will be a much greater concern to coastal areas than temperature and precipitation changes. An increase in sea level of about 1.25 ft over the next 40 years would result in permanent inundation and increased temporary flooding of low-lying areas. Rising sea levels will also cause an increase in the elevation of the water table in nearshore areas, with a greater area adversely impacted by flooding. Areas that now experience flooding during king tides and storms will be expanded and experience higher water levels.
Sea level rise is potentially subject to upside surprises as changes in marine ice packs and ocean currents could result in more rapid increases than projected by extrapolation of historical data or climate change modeling. Hence, the location and design of new infrastructure, and modifications
Figure 6. Map showing coastal areas that would be inundated (light blue) and hydraulically unconnected areas that may also flood (green) for a 2-foot sea level rise. (source: NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer)
of existing infrastructure, should consider various worst-case scenarios, in addition to modeled changes further out in time. The Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact recommends that, for critical infrastructure with design lives that end before 2070 and noncritical infrastructure in service during or after 2070, the NOAA Intermediate-High Curve should be used. The NOAA High Curve should also be used for projects with longer operational lives or those considered critical high-risk projects.
Saline-water intrusion will likely increase in coastal aquifers, but in some areas wells have already been moved inland and many utilities have gone to desalination of brackish groundwater, a climate change-resilient source, to meet increased demands.
A trend toward increased hurricane intensities and rainfall would increase risks from wind damage, storm surges, and inland flooding. As sea level rises, storm surges will occur atop a higher baseline, increasing their height and inland penetration and associated economic damage.
Conclusions
Most probable climate changes in Florida over the next 20 to 40 years (i.e., results of the ensemble of climate modeling results), will likely be gradual enough to not greatly impact water systems and communities as a whole. Warmer temperatures and a greater evaporative deficit will likely result in a modest increase in water demands. The most vulnerable areas to climate change are low-lying coastal environments. Permanent inundation by sea water is generally not a concern in habitation areas due to their higher elevations, but they may experience more frequent and greater flooding during high tides and storms, which
will likely become more frequent and severe. An intensification of hurricanes and associated storm surges atop a high baseline may necessitate hardening, elevating, or relocating vulnerable infrastructure.
The greatest vulnerability to climate change over the next several decades lies in uncertain, low-probability events that are inadequately represented in current climate models (e.g., morerapid collapse of the Antarctic ice shelf) that could have large and rapid impacts on sea levels. Hence, decision makers should keep abreast of the latest climate change data and updated predictions, and climate change should be another variable mainstreamed into water system planning.
References
• Alder, J.R. and Hostetler, S.W. (2013). USGS National Climate Change Viewer. U.S. Geological Survey https://doi.org/10.5066/ F7W9575T.
• Arias, P. A., N. Bellouin, E. Coppola, R.G. Jones, G. Krinner, J. Marotzke, V. Naik, M.D. Palmer, G.-K. Plattner, J. Rogelj, et al. Technical Summary (2021). In Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science.
• Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., et al., eds.]. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA, pp. 33−144.
• Burgess, M.G., Ritchie, J., Shapland, J. and Pielke, R. (2020). IPCC baseline scenarios have over-projected CO2 emissions and economic growth. Environmental Research Letters, 16(1), p.014016.
• De-Gol, A.J., Le Quéré, C., Smith, A.J.P., and Le Quéré, M.A. (2023). Broadening scientific engagement and inclusivity in IPCC reports through collaborative technology platforms. NPJ Climate Action 2, no. 1 (2023): 49.
• Hausfather, Z. and Peters, G.P. (2020). Emissions–the ‘business as usual’ story is misleading. Nature, 577, no. 7792, 618-620.
• IPCC. (2021) Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., et al., eds.]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA, 2391 pp.
• Kossin, J.P., Knapp, K.R., Olander, T.L. and Velden, C.S., (2020). Global increase in major tropical cyclone exceedance probability over the past four decades. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 117(22), pp.11975-11980.
• Lee, J.L., (2025) NASA Analysis Shows Unexpected Amount of Sea Level Rise in 2024, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. March 13,
• Riahi, K., Van Vuuren, D. P., Kriegler, E., Edmonds, J., O’neill, B. C., Fujimori, S., ... & Tavoni, M. (2017). The Shared Socioeconomic Pathways and their energy, land use, and greenhouse gas emissions implications: An overview. Global Environmental Change, 42, 153-168.
• Rayer, S., and Comfort, C. (2024). Projections of Florida Population by County, 2025–2050, with Estimates for 2023. BEBR Florida Population Studies Volume 57, Bulletin 198.
Compact Sea Level Rise Ad Hoc Work Group. February 2020.
• Seneviratne, S.I., X. Zhang, M. Adnan, W. Badi, C. Dereczynski, A. Di Luca, S. Ghosh, I. Iskandar, J. Kossin, S. Lewis, F. Otto, I. Pinto, M. Satoh, S.M. Vicente-Serrano, M. Wehner, and B. Zhou, (2021). Weather and Climate Extreme Events in a Changing Climate. In Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. et al., eds.]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, N.Y., USA, pp. 1513–1766.
• Sweet, W.V., Hamlington, B.D., Kopp, R.E., Weaver, C.P., Barnard, P.L., Bekaert, D., Brooks, W., Craghan, M., Dusek, G., Frederikse, T., Garner, G., Genz, A.S., Krasting, J.P., Larour, E., Marcy, D., Marra, J.J., Obeysekera, J., Osler, M., Pendleton, M., Roman, D., Schmied, L., Veatch, W., White, K.D., Zuzak, C. (2022). Global and Regional Sea Level Rise Scenarios for the United States: Updated Mean Projections and Extreme Water Level Probabilities Along U.S. Coastlines. NOAA Technical Report NOS 01. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Service, Silver Spring, Md. S
The Secrets of Visionary Leaders: Creating Cultures That Invite Possibility
If you only reward the right answers, you’ll never unlock the right questions
Susan Robertson
In some organizations, possibility feels like a luxury. Something you talk about at offsites. Something you reference in mission statements. Something you save for after the real work is done.
But in visionary organizations, possibility is the work. Visionary leaders understand that possibility isn’t about ungrounded optimism or brainstorming with sticky notes. Possibility is a strategic mindset; one that must be designed into the culture, not left to chance.
And it starts with what your culture rewards—and what it shuts down.
A New Vision
If your team is praised for always having the answer, they’ll stop asking better questions. If your processes value efficiency over inquiry, you’ll execute the wrong ideas faster. If your meetings celebrate alignment more than insight, you’ll get consensus—not originality. Here’s what visionary leaders do differently.
They Reward Exploration—Not Just Execution
In many corporate cultures, performance is
moved forward, what closed. But execution without exploration is just inertia: movement, not momentum. Visionary leaders understand that the way something is achieved matters just as much as whether it’s achieved. They celebrate the question that reframed the challenge. The insight that came from asking “Why?” one more time. The person who slowed down to rethink what everyone else rushed past.
They build systems where early-stage thinking is tracked and rewarded, not just final deliverables. Recognition isn’t reserved for the person who closed the loop—it’s shared with the one who cracked it open.
They also coach teams to distinguish between action and traction. Just because something is moving doesn’t mean it’s moving in the right direction.
Possibility isn’t the opposite of productivity—it’s the source of it.
They Make It Safe to Wonder Out Loud
Nothing kills possibility faster than fear. Fear of being wrong. Fear of being seen as naive. Fear of asking the “dumb” question. Visionary leaders dismantle that fear by making inquiry normal. They ask the unasked questions. They challenge the obvious. They make it okay to say “I don’t know” because those three words are often the doorway to real insight.
They also reshape team norms, replacing “What’s the answer?” with “What are we
This creates space for slow thinking and deeper reflection—critical ingredients for complex problem solving.
And they reward follow-up questions, not just first reactions. This reinforces the idea that thoughtfulness is more valuable than speed. When leaders model curiosity, they make it contagious.
They Design Meetings Around Thinking, Not Just Updates
Most meetings are structured around what’s known. The agenda is a list of answers: status updates, project checkpoints, metrics. But possibility doesn’t live in the known. It lives in the unspoken, the unclear, the unresolved. Visionary leaders rewire meetings to surface possibility. They intentionally carve out time for questions that don’t have answers yet. They leave room for challenge and exploration. They ask:
S “What aren’t we seeing?”
S “What assumptions are we making?”
S “What feels off, even if we can’t explain why?”
They also pause before alignment is forced, allowing tension to surface while ideas are still fragile—when possibility still has a chance to shape direction. Possibility doesn’t just need more airtime—it needs more intentional airtime. Not extra minutes on the calendar, but higher-quality space in the conversation.
They Promote Signal Seekers
Some people are naturally tuned to the faint signals of emerging ideas. They notice what others miss. They question before others do. Visionary leaders find these people—and amplify them. They build teams that elevate intuition and pattern recognition, not just certainty. They reward those who surface tension early, not just those who resolve it later. They also provide language to support this behavior. In cultures that favor speed and clarity, signal seekers often get sidelined as blockers, but visionary leaders reframe them as scouts—the ones who sense shifts early and expand what’s possible.
They don’t ask these people to tone it down. They ask everyone else to tune in.
A culture that invites possibility is a culture that knows how to listen.
They Don’t Confuse Alignment With Safety
Too many leaders believe that alignment equals health, but forced alignment can smother the very signals that possibility needs. Visionary leaders create space for divergence. They allow competing hypotheses. They make disagreement productive—not political. They clarify the difference between unity
and uniformity. Teams aligned on the purpose don’t need to agree on every tactic. In fact, too much agreement too early is often a red flag. They teach their teams that voicing an uncomfortable truth is not disloyal—it’s responsible.
Possibility needs room to breathe before it can scale.
They Recognize That Culture is Built in the Small Moments
Cultural transformation isn’t a campaign. It’s a series of microsignals: who gets recognized, what gets repeated, what gets ignored.
Visionary leaders don’t just talk about possibility in their meetings; they build it into daily habits. They turn moments of friction into invitations for reflection and recognize when a question shifted the room. They ask follow-up questions even when the answer feels sufficient. They don’t wait for culture change. They wade into it every time they pause before deciding, ask instead of answer, or create space for someone to speak who otherwise wouldn’t.
Possibility doesn’t live in values statements; it lives in behavioral patterns.
Visionary Leadership Isn’t About Having a Bold Idea—It’s About Building a Culture Where Bold Ideas Can Live
Possibility doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when leaders intentionally reward it, model it, and protect it. Not just in big moments, but in small ones: the question asked, the challenge tolerated, the pause before the decision. If your culture values only the answer, don’t be surprised when people stop asking better questions.
The future belongs to the leaders who make space for possibility—and signal to everyone around them that it’s safe, it’s welcome, and it matters.
Susan Robertson empowers individuals, teams, and organizations to Live in Possibility™ so they can more nimbly navigate change. She is a creative thinking expert with over 20 years of experience speaking, consulting, and coaching in Fortune 500 companies. As an instructor on applied creativity at Harvard, Susan brings a scientific foundation to enhancing human creativity. To learn more go to www.SusanRobertsonSpeaker.com. S
Organizations Celebrate Completion of Picayune Strand Restoration Project
Representatives from the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), along with many other federal, state, and local officials, partners, and stakeholders, celebrated the completion of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project in Collier County at a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. The project is a cornerstone of America’s most ambitious ecosystem restoration effort, the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan
restoring America’s Everglades. It is a great honor as we mark the completion of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project, a cornerstone of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan,” said Adam Telle, assistant secretary of the Army for Civil Works. “Reducing flood risk to Floridians and completing rejuvenation of this natural wonder is a gargantuan challenge, the type that can only be successfully pulled off under the get-it-done leadership of President Trump and his administration. The amount of time and effort that we are contributing to
of Florida, and everyone involved in making this project a reality.”
“Thanks to the support of Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature and their steadfast commitment to Everglades restoration, we are seeing what is possible when state and federal governments, along with our partners, commit to this work and follow through,” said Alexis A. Lambert, secretary at FDEP. “This project is already improving water quality and wildlife habitat and helping ensure America’s Everglades are stronger for generations to come.”
Pictured from left to right: Drew Bartlett, SFWMD executive director; Jacksonville Dist. Cmdr. Brandon Bowman, USACE; Rob Moher, Conservancy of Southwest Florida president and chief executive officer; Chauncey Goss, SFWMD governing board chair; Charlette Roman, SFWMD governing board member and chair of the Big Cypress Basin; U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart; Adam Telle, assistant secretary of the Army for Civil Works; Alexis Lambert, secretary of FDEP; “Alligator Ron” Bergeron, SFWMD governing board member; Maj. Gen. Jason Kelly, USACE; Ben Butler, SFWMD governing board member; and Maj. Cory Bell, USACE Jacksonville District.
governing board member and chair of the Big Cypress Basin. “I am enormously grateful to every single person who worked on this project every step of the way. The momentum we have seen under the leadership of Gov. DeSantis is truly amazing. In recent years, we have seen many large-scale projects come online, with more in the works. Only by working together with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and all of our federal, state, and local partners and stakeholders can we accomplish these monumental feats of engineering, planning, and construction. I am so proud to be a part of the critical effort to restore America’s Everglades.”
Project Benefits
Spanning 55,000 acres between Alligator Alley and Tamiami Trail in southwest Florida, this restoration project is the result of years of collaboration between USACE and SFWMD, as well as with many local, state, and federal partners. Through the removal of 260 miles of roads and plugging 48 miles of canals, the project has successfully restored the natural flow of water to the region, revitalizing wetlands and improving overall water quality.
This restoration project will improve flows of water into Collier Seminole State Park, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, and Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.
The project has numerous environmental benefits including:
S Restoration of wetlands that are already making a significant contribution to the landscape of southwest Florida
S Restored and enhanced habitat for fish and wildlife including the Florida panther
S Reduced drainage of adjacent sensitive ecosystems
S Improved aquifer recharge to protect underground water supplies and prevent saltwater intrusions
S Reduced freshwater releases and improved health of downstream estuaries
These long-term benefits will ensure that the region’s natural resources are safeguarded for the future.
Project Accomplishments
The CERP projects are coming online at a historic pace and significant progress continues to be made to implement projects that support the ecological health of Florida’s unique ecosystem.
Recent accomplishments include:
S Recognized the 25th Anniversary of CERP and the incredible progress that has been
made in transforming how water moves across Florida.
S Celebrated the completion of the Biscayne Bay Coastal Wetlands Project, a major CERP project. This project improves the health of Biscayne Bay and aids in wetland rehydration, building coastal resiliency and improving water quality in this area of Miami-Dade County.
S Broke ground on the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir Inflow Pump Station in Palm Beach County, which will have the capability to move approximately 3 billion gallons of water per day from Lake Okeechobee into the EAA Reservoir.
S Broke ground on the Blue Shanty Flow Way in Miami-Dade County, a vital system that will deliver clean water south across Tamiami Trail and into Florida Bay.
Start-up of the Caloosahatchee (C-43) Reservoir in Hendry County.
S Signing of a landmark agreement between the state of Florida and the U.S. Department of the Army to accelerate Everglades restoration, including the EAA Reservoir. This agreement supercharges Everglades restoration by accelerating the EAA Reservoir’s construction timeline by five years.
The Picayune Strand Restoration Project was the first project partnership agreement that USACE executed with SFWMD as part of CERP. The state of Florida and USACE have completed, broken ground, or reached a major milestone on more than 80 Everglades restoration projects since 2019. S
Project location. (source: South Florida Water Management District)
C L A S S I F I E D S
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES - Classified ads are $22 per line for a 60 character line (including spaces and punctuation), $60 minimum. The price includes publication in both the magazine and our Web site. Short positions wanted ads are run one time for no charge and are subject to editing. ads@fwrj.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Utilities Plans Examiner Coordinator
$72,705 - $112,531/yr.
Chief Utilities Treatment Plant Operator
$71,970 - $101,269/yr.
Utilities Lift Station Operator II
$62,171 - $87,479/yr.
Utilities Treatment Plant Operator I or Trainee
$53,705 - $86,314
Utilities Treatment Plants Mechanic I
$51,148 - $71,970/yr.
Apply Online At: http://pompanobeachfl.gov
Open until filled
Okeechobee Utility - Executive Director
Salary Range: $125,000 - $225,000
The Okeechobee Utility Authority is seeking an experienced, Executive Director to lead the operations, planning, and administration of our water and wastewater utility serving the community while ensuring regulatory compliance, financial sustainability, and high-quality customer service.
For job description and outline of benefits go to ouafl.com Submit a résumé and cover letter to hrmanager@ouafl.com
Water Treatment Plant Operators
The Water Treatment Plant at the Village of Wellington is currently accepting applications for full-time WATER OPERATOR positions. Apply online. Job postings and applications are available on our website: https://wellingtonfl.munisselfservice.com/employees/ EmploymentOpportunities/
We are located in Palm Beach County, Florida. The Village of Wellington offers great benefits. For further information, call Human Resources at (561) 753-2585.
Supervising Professional Engineer Bureau of Water Supply Planning
St. Johns River Water Management District Apopka, Jacksonville, or Palatka, Florida
Salary Range
$100,000-$123,000
Starting salary based on qualifications and experience.
Lead a team of scientists, engineers, and hydrologists evaluating potential impacts to water resources resulting from groundwater and surface water withdrawals and developing solutions to address impacts while ensuring water supply needs are met. Requires working closely with stakeholders and consumptive use permittees to identify and develop local and regional projects as a part of Minimum Flows and Levels Prevention and Recovery strategies.
For further information visit: https://www.sjrwmd.com/jobs/.
TOWN OF DUNDEE
Administrative Utilities Manager
Deputy Utilities Director assists in the planning, direction, and management of operations within the Utilities Department. This position is responsible for overseeing key divisions such as water, wastewater, stormwater, electric, and/or solid waste services. The Deputy Director provides leadership and strategic oversight to ensure reliable utility services, regulatory compliance, fiscal responsibility, and exceptional customer service.
For more details and how to apply: https://townofdundee.com/ contact-us/employment-opportunities/
NOW HIRING!
Water & Wastewater Positions
• Utilities Director
• Operations Manager
• Utilities Maintenance Supervisor
• Chief Operator
• Project Manager
• Lift Station Operator
• Plant Operator I -II Apply Online Today! -www.davie-fl.gov
City of New Port Richey –Multiple Positions Available
Assistant Public Works Director, Utilities Operations & Safety Manager and others.
Please visit our website for complete job description and to apply. https://www.cityofnewportrichey.org/Departments/HumanResources/Careers/Job-Opportunities
Project Manager – Water Resources & Planning
Responsible for managing water resources, water supply, and related projects for Authority water supply facilities. Apply and view full details at www.regionalwater.org
NEWS BEAT
In December 2025, the National Groundwater Association (NGWA) made organization history by appointing Seth Kellogg, PG, as its first female president during its annual Groundwater Week. Kellogg is a longtime member of NGWA and has served for nearly a decade as its in-house per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances expert. She is also a senior principal geologist with Geosyntec in New Jersey, bringing over 31 years of experience in project management, remedial investigations, feasibility studies, and regulatory compliance for state and federal agencies.
The NGWA is also underscoring the critical role groundwater professionals play in helping communities and companies manage water resources responsibly.
In a new cover story in its monthly trade magazine, Water Well Journal, NGWA experts examine how the rapid growth of data centers is increasing demand for both energy and water— often in regions already facing water constraints. Onsite water use by data centers was estimated at approximately 17 billion gallons nationally in 2023, with usage expected to rise significantly in the coming years
“Data centers certainly pose some interesting water and energy challenges,” said William M. Alley, Ph.D., NGWA’s director of science and technology and one of the article’s authors. “By working together, groundwater professionals can develop solutions to ensure our water resources are used responsibly and sustainably.”
The article highlights how groundwater professionals can support sustainable data center development through hydrogeologic evaluation, water-use planning, community engagement, and innovative cooling solutions— including geothermal systems and managed aquifer recharge. These approaches can significantly reduce, or in some cases, eliminate net groundwater consumption while supporting local water security.
To further advance responsible practices, NGWA has launched a Data Center Task Force
of its members focused on developing guidance for policymakers, utilities, communities, and data center developers. The task force will work to address groundwater availability, transparency in water use, and best practices for siting and operating data centers in ways that protect longterm water resources.
“As data centers move into more regions, particularly groundwater-reliant and rural communities, it’s essential that water resource professionals and communities are part of the conversation,” said Alley. “We’re committed to bringing science, expertise, and practical solutions to the table and promoting wider conversations about the development of data centers.”
The article is the first in a three-part series exploring data centers and groundwater, with additional installments scheduled for upcoming issues.
R
The Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department has received several awards from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies
(NACWA), marking its fourth consecutive year receiving this national recognition. The NACWA is the nation’s industry leader in legislative, regulatory, legal, and communications advocacy on clean water issues. Each year, NACWA recognizes high-achieving utilities for their performance in sustainable water treatment.
The department’s Southern Region Water Reclamation Facility in Boynton Beach has been awarded the distinguished Gold Award, recognizing its impressive achievement of 100 percent compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over the past year.
The department was also recognized for its achievements at its Western Region North Wastewater Treatment Facility in Pahokee and the Western Region Wastewater Treatment Facility in Belle Glade, both of which have earned a Silver Award during the same period. These awards emphasize the utility’s commitment to effective wastewater management, water reclamation, and environmental stewardship.S
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September..........Emerging
October
November...........Water
December
Technical articles are usually scheduled several months in advance and are due 60 days before the issue month (for example, January 1 for the March issue).
The closing date for display ad and directory card reservations, notices, announcements, upcoming events, and everything else including classified ads, is 30 days before the issue month (for example, September 1 for the October issue).
For further information on submittal requirements, guidelines for writers, advertising rates and conditions, and ad dimensions, as well as the most recent notices, announcements, and classified advertisements, go to www.fwrj.com or call 352-241-6006.
Continued from page 45
1. D) 53.4 minutes.
The detention time of a reaction basin with a diameter of 20 feet wide and 6 feet deep that treats a flow of 380,000 gallons per day is 53.4 minutes.
2. A) 1.72 mg/l.
The dose of potassium permanganate in milligrams per liter for a well with 4 mg/l iron before aeration and 0.6 mg/l after aeration wherein the manganese concentration is 0.8 mg/l before and after aeration is 1.72 mg/l.
3. A) 115 mg/l.
The carbonate hardness of water with an alkalinity of 160 mg/l as CaCO3 and the total hardness is 115 mg/l as CaCO3 is 115 mg/l.
4. B) 0 mg/l.
The noncarbonate hardness of water with an alkalinity of 120 mg/l as CaCO3 and the total hardness is 80 mg/l as CaCO3 is 0 mg/l.
5. C) 55 mg/l.
The noncarbonate hardness of water with an alkalinity of 105 mg/l as CaCO3 and the total hardness is 160 mg/l as CaCO3 is 55 mg/l.
6. A) 1,548 lbs/day.
The amount of soda ash required to remove 60 mg/l of noncarbonate hardness as CaCO3 from water with a flow of 2.9 mgd is 1,548 lbs/day.
7. C) 3,853 lbs/day.
The dosage of lime (lbs/day) treating water with a flow of 2.8 mgd with a concentration of 165 mg/l is 3,853 lbs/day.
8 B) 325 mg/l.
The hardness in milligrams per liter for water with a hardness of 19 grains is 325 mg/l.
9. C) 16,000,000 grains of hardness. The exchange capacity in grains of hardness for an ion exchange unit that contains 800 cubic feet of resin with a removal capacity of 20,000 grains is 16,000,000 grains of hardness.
10. A) 894,736 gallons.
The number of gallons of water with a hardness of 19 grains per gallon that may be treated by an ion exchange softener with an exchange capacity of 17,000,000 grains is 894,736 gallons.
Biofilm Innovation for Wastewater Intensification
Cella™, Veolia's newest biofilm technology, uses AnoxK™C, a biobased material to support dynamic biofilm growth, offering a higher specific surface area enabling more capacity with a smaller footprint.
Cella™ not only captures the advantages of a traditional MBBR but requires fewer stages (maximum two) to achieve BOD, nitrogen, and biological phosphorus removal without requiring IMLR or RAS.
This energy efficient technology offers sustainable treatment, thus contributing to a circular economy.
