Issuu

Official Publication of the West Virginia Water Environment Association

ISSUE 2 2026

ANNUAL WV AWWA/

WEA JOINT WATER

CONFERENCE Draws Record Crowd

Address Service Requested. West Virginia Water Environment Assocation P.O. Box 5262, Charleston, WV 25361

SOLUTIONS YOU CAN TRUST!

800.753.7566

NEW | USED | RENTAL | PARTS | SERVICE

CONTENTS

13 13 18

2026 Annual WV AWWA/WEA Joint Water Conference Draws Record Crowd Award Winning Documentary Tells the Story of Wastewater: Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong

DEPARTMENTS

05 Board of Directors

07 President’s Message

09 WEF Delegate’s Report 11

Committee Reports Member Spotlight

22 Advertiser Product & Service Centre

Managing Editor: Anna Savard

Address Service Requested West Virginia Water Environment Assocation P.O. Box 5262, Charleston, W V 25361 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Zach Thompson – zach.thompson@burgessniple.com

Immediate Past President Charlie McKenzie – charliemckenzie@servicepump.com

President Elect Jacob Daley – jdaley@csb-wv.com

POTW Director Jarod Cummons – jcummons@bridgeportwv.gov

1st Vice President Paul McDanald – pmcdanald@huntingtonsb.com

Secretary/Treasurer Matt Dawson – jdawson@elrobinson.com

Marketing Manager: David Gill Design/Layout: Kellee Breckman Tel: 866-985-9780 Fax: 866-985-9799 info@kelman.ca www.kelman.ca

Advertising Co-ordinator: Stefanie Hagidiakow

2nd Vice President Matt Brenner – mbrenner@pumpmanwv.com

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 03

Sequence Batch Reactor at Westmoreland

Experience RAM Industrial Services (Water Technology Division) is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. RAM manufactures and represents “Best in Class” products and services for municipal and industrial water and wastewater treatment applications.

Pumps & Pumping Systems

(412) 610-5388 (724) 695-5366 mike.presutti@iss-na.com (724)695-5366

Aqualitec EMO—Sludge Dewatering • Belt Filter Presses—0.6 to 3 meters • Combo GBT & BFP—0.6 to 3 meters • Fully Enclosed Option • Stand Alone GBT • Plate & Frame Filter Press

Pump Repair Services • 24 / 7 Field Service • All Manufacturers • Annual Service Contracts

Sub Contractors

• Installation • Fabrication • Welding • Laser Alignment • Vibration Analysis • Start-up & Troubleshooting

UV Disinfection System • Horizontal & Vertical

Aqualitec Screens • Screentec • Raketec • Compactec • Grittec

Water Technology Division | 1095 Montour Industrial Blvd | Coraopolis, Pa 15108

Wastewater Treatment Systems

• Sequencing Batch Reactors (SBR) • Continuous & Batch Style • Retrofitting of Existing SBRs • Conversion of Conventional Style Activated Sludge Design • Extended Aeration Treatment Plants • Tertiary Filters—Multimedia Downflow Design • Denitrification Filters (Anoxic Style) • Membrane Bioreactors (MBR) • Moving Bed Bioreactors (MBBR) • Iron & Manganese Filters • Packaged Surface Water Treatment Systems • Pre-Engineered, Prefabricated Pump Stations

Control Panels

• NEMA 1, 3R, 4, 4x, 7, 12 • PLC—Programable Logic Control • VFD’s Cutler Hammer, Alan Bradley, ABB • NEMA Starter • IEC Starter • SCADA Systems • Engineering & Design

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2026 WV WEA Board Members

RETURN TO CONTENTS

ZACH THOMPSON

JACOB DALEY

President

President Elect

zach.thompson@burgessniple.com

jdaley@csb-wv.com

PAUL MCDANALD

MATT BRENNER

1st Vice President pmcdanald@huntingtonsb.com

2nd Vice President mbrenner@pumpmanwv.com

JAROD CUMMONS

MELISA POWERS

POTW Director jcummons@bridgeportwv.gov

National Delegate melisa.powers@k12.wv.us

MATT DAWSON

CHARLIE MCKENZIE

Secretary/Treasurer jdawson@elrobinson.com

Past President charliemckenzie@servicepump.com

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 05

WE TAILOR OUR SCREENING EQUIPMENT TO FIT YOUR NEEDS. All wastewater treatment plants are not alike. That’s why plant designers prefer our Raptor® line of screening products, the innovative all-in-one units that screen, wash, convey and dewater screenings efficiently, capturing more fine solids and long fibers than other available screens. Raptor® products are adaptable to a wide range of configurations, giving you more choices for better performance in your unique application. They are preferred among plant operators for their simple operation, ease of use, and minimal maintenance. When performance counts, count on the industry leader for more than 90 years—Lakeside Equipment Corporation.

REPRESENTED LOCALLY BY:

Daman Superior, LLC MUNICIPAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

754 Kittanning Hollow Road | East Brady, PA 16028 T: 724.526.5714 | F: 724.526.5277 | jcurran@damansuperior.com www.damansuperior.com

Cleaner Water for a Brighter Future® Speak to one of our experts at 630.837.5640, email us at sales@lakeside-equipment.com, or visit www.lakeside-equipment.com for more product information.

Raptor® Screening Products Fine Screen Micro Strainer Rotating Drum Screen Septage Acceptance Plant Septage Complete Plant Complete Plant Multi-Rake Bar Screen FalconRake® Bar Screen Rotary Strainer Screen Wash Press

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Reflecting on the 2026 West Virginia Water Conference Zach Thompson President – West Virginia Water Environment Association

ear Members of the West Virginia Water Environment Association,

I’m pleased to report that this year’s joint conference at Canaan Valley Resort was a real success. Attendance felt like the crowds we saw before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the golf tournament was a highlight of the week. There are a few things the board and I will look to improve next time, but overall we were glad for the time spent together at Canaan Valley. On behalf of the board, thank you to every member who supported this year’s conference – your dedication, support, and commitment mean a great deal to this Association. WVWEA and the West Virginia American Water Works Association continue to build on the strong connection between our two organizations, and we’re excited to keep sharing knowledge across both memberships. Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce that the next joint West Virginia Water Conference will be held at Canaan Valley Resort from May 16–19, 2027. It’s always a great opportunity to connect with colleagues, share best practices, and stay current in a field that keeps evolving. The conference brings together informative presentations, operator training sessions, networking opportunities, a golf tournament, and vendor showcases. Time spent with others in the industry – trading ideas, comparing notes, making connections – is one of the most valuable parts of the week for your own professional development. Details on the schedule, speakers, and registration are still being finalized. We encourage you to keep an eye on wvwaterconference.com

for updates and to watch for when registration opens – space fills up fast, so securing your spot early is worth the wait. The West Virginia Water Environment Association looks forward to seeing you all at Canaan Valley Resort from May 16–19, 2027!

TERI MERRIFIELD

Senior Technical Account Executive E-mail: teri.merrifield@aquaticinformatics.com Phone: 304-374-1490

RETURN TO CONTENTS

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 07

THE NEXT GENERATION OF WASTEWATER AIR MANAGEMENT

Introducing Flomatic’s New Sewair-Combo® NXC A compact and lightweight 2" NPT combination air valve engineered with a minimum working pressure of just 3 PSI to protect critical infrastructure, enhance operational reliability, and simplify maintenance.

Next Generation Air Management Working Pressure: 3 PSI – 230 PSI 3 Function Combination Valve Easy Maintenance / Dual Cleanout Ports AWWA C512 Compliant

COMPACT 2” NPT 3-FUNCTION AIR VALVE SCAN TO LEARN MORE

3 PSI MINIMUM WORKING PRESSURE

WEF DELEGATE’S REPORT

WEF at the West Virginia Water Conference Melisa Powers

very year the national organizations send representatives to the State Water conference. This year’s WEF representative was Kalpna Solanski. Kalpna is currently serving on WEF’s Board of Trustees. She has a background in operator certification in Canada. Kalpna came all the way from her home in Vancouver, British Columbia to join us. One of the many things that the WEF Board of Trustees do is represent WEF at the conferences held by state or member associations as they are known. There are expected duties associated with being a WEF rep at these events, such as being a speaker to share the Water Environment Federation’s mission, goals, and latest highlights with the member association. Kalpna not only served as the WEF rep but also stepped in at the last minute to cover a session on the operator training track, when the scheduled speaker couldn’t make it.

Kalpna gave a short talk, shared some inspirational videos that highlighted operators and the VERY important work that they do. She then divided attendees into groups to discuss what the issues are surrounding the recruitment and retention of operators. Each group then created a posterboard of their ideas & presented it at the end, making for an interactive and fun learning session. Kalpna also participated in the annual WVWEA Board meeting and had some suggestions to offer from other member associations that she has visited with. There were so many things that Kalpna brought to the Conference but the best for me was that she is not only a water advocate but also an operator advocate. It was an absolute pleasure having her join us.

Manufacturing Buy America Build America (BABA) compliant electric actuators. CHEMICAL FEED AND PROCESS EQUIPMENT FOR WATER WASTEWATER CHEMICAL FEED AND PROCESS EQUIPMENT FOR & WATER & WASTEWATE CHEMICAL FEED AND PROCESS EQUIPMENT FOR WATER & WASTEWATER VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR ACCOUNT LISTING: www.bissnussinc.com VISIT OURWEBSITE WEBSITE FOR ACCOUNT LISTING: www.bissnussinc.com VISIT OUR FOR ACCOUNT LISTING: www.bissnussinc.com

TRUSTED. POWERFUL. PRECISE.

CHEMICAL FEED AND PROCESS EQUIPMENT FOR WATER & WASTEWATER VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR ACCOUNT LISTING: www.bissnussinc.com

PITTSBURGH WEST VIRGINIA PITTSBURGH / WEST /VIRGINIA PITTSBURGH / WEST VIRGINIA

2600 Rd. 2600 Boyce 2600 PlazaBoyce Rd. Plaza Boyce Plaza Rd. PITTSBURGH / WEST VIRGINIA Suite 141 2600 Boyce Plaza Rd. Suite 141 Suite 218 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 Suite 141 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 PA 15241 Tel: (412) 221-1200Pittsburgh, Fax: (412) 221-5952 Tel: (412) 221-1200 (412) 221-5952 Tel: (412)Fax: 221-1200 Fax: (412) Fax: 221-5952 Tel: (412) 221-1200 (412) 221-5952

CANFIELD CANFIELD CANFIELD 7 Court 7 Court Street 7Street Court Street CANFIELD 7Suite Court Street SuiteSuite 210 210 210 Canfield, OH210 44406 Suite Canfield, OH 44406 Canfield, OH 44406 Canfield, OH 1 44406 Tel: (330) 533-553 Fax: (330) 533-6857 Tel: (330) 53 3-(330) 553 1533-Fax: 533-6857 Tel: (330) 5331 -(330) 553 Fax: (330) 533-6857 Tel: 553 Fax:1(330) 533-6857

OR CALL 888-256-3142 FOR CHEMICAL FEED PARTSFEED & SERVICE VISIT www.bnrinc.com OR CALL 888-256-3142 FOR CHEMICAL PARTS & SERVICE VISIT www.bnrinc.com

www.bnrinc.com OR CALL OR 888-256-3142 FOR CHEMICAL FEED PARTS & SERVICE CALL 888-256-31 FOR CHEMICAL FEED PARTS & VISIT SERVICE VISIT www.bnrinc.com

City of Lewisburg

Water Treatment Plant

Reliably Operate: -

Quarter-turn valves Multi-turn valves Dampers Open/close applications Modulating applications

AWWA Certified/BABA Compliant SQ10.2 with AC01.2 controls

All while offering integral motor controls and compatible interfaces for a variety of plant control systems. ENGINEERING ARCHITECTURE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE GEOSPATIAL

RETURN TO CONTENTS

mailbox@auma-usa.com www.auma.com

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 09

EMERGING CONTAMINANTS, WET WEATHER CAPACITY, BIOSOLIDS QUALITY, NUTRIENT REMOVAL. Designing Robust And Reliable Wastewater Treatment Systems

gdfengineers.com

Wastewater Sampling Made Easy The WAVE Vacuum Sampler

An all-weather wastewater sampler built to handle extremes in any environment – hot or cold – while delivering pinpoint accuracy and minimal maintenance. • Vacuum Powered System delivers a more representative sample. Draws with vertical lifts of nearly ~29 ft and 200 ft horizontally. • Low Maintenance Design: Eliminates costly roller and tube replacements – no more frequent, expensive downtime. • Intuitive Controls: 7" full-color touchscreen for easy programming of sample size (20-500 mL), flow/time intervals, and temperature. • Built for Extremes: Rugged high-impact acrylic/ABS body – weatherproof outdoors, whisper-quiet indoors. Patent Numbers 11,598,696 & 11,768,132.

10 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | ISSUE 2 2026

WWW.EMERALDCOASTMFG.COM

Made in the U.S.A.

RETURN TO CONTENTS

COMMITTEE REPORTS

NEWSLETTER & WEBSITE COMMITTEE UPDATE Welcome to the sixth issue of Mountain Currents! Each issue, this newsletter grows a little more into what it’s meant to be: a reliable way to keep West Virginia’s water and wastewater community informed, connected, and engaged. Thank you for reading, and for being part of that effort. The Newsletter and Website Committee continues to focus on one goal: getting timely, relevant information into members’ hands. That means refining how content moves from committee updates and event coverage to the pages you’re reading now, and keeping the website working as a dependable companion to the newsletter rather than a separate island. We continue to encourage every member to check in regularly at westvirginiawea.org. The site remains the fastest way to find current Association news, event details, and resources, and the committee is committed to keeping it accurate and up to date. As always, this newsletter works best when it reflects what members actually want to see. If there’s a topic, project, or piece of news you’d like covered in a future issue – or feedback on this one – we’d genuinely like to hear it. Thank you for staying connected and for your continued support of WVWEA.

Official Publication of the West Virginia Water Environment Association

ISSUE 2 2026

Official Publication of the West Virginia Water Environment Association

ISSUE 1 2026

ANNUAL WV AWWA/

WEA JOINT WATER

CONFERENCE Draws Record Crowd

20 26 CONFERENCE Join Us For The

ANNUAL WV AWWA/

WEAJOINT WATER

Address Service Requested. West Virginia Water Environment Assocation P.O. Box 5262, Charleston, WV 25361

PumpMan Pittsburgh is the region’s leading provider of equipment sales, service & repair for water and wastewater treatment equipment in the Municipal, Commercial, and Industrial markets.

SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST

• Industry Leading Experience & Expertise

• 24/7 In Shop and Field Service Maintenance & Repair

• Full Line of Water and Wastewater Treatment Equipment

• Planned Maintenance Contracts

412.487.7140

Call for emergency service at 1.866.929.3451.

THE SITE REMAINS THE FASTEST WAY TO FIND CURRENT ASSOCIATION NEWS, EVENT DETAILS, AND RESOURCES. RETURN TO CONTENTS

PITTSBURGH OFFICE 3812 William Flynn Hwy, Bldg. 2 • Allison Park, PA 15101 412.487.7140 • www.pumpman.com/Pittsburgh.com WV OFFICE 1740 Union Carbide Drive, Bldg. 740 • South Charleston, WV 25303 304.546.5875 • 304.444.0227

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 11

20 CONFERENCE 26

ANNUAL WV AWWA/

WEA JOINT WATER

Draws Record Crowd

CANAAN VALLEY RESORT | CANAAN VALLEY WV

2026 West Virginia Water Conference Draws Record Post-Pandemic Crowd

his year's West Virginia Water Conference brought more water and wastewater professionals to Canaan Valley Resort than any conference since before the pandemic. Held May 17–21, the event once again paired the West Virginia Water Environment Association (WVWEA) with the West Virginia Section of the American Water Works Association (WV AWWA) – and the turnout reflected just how much members value this shared gathering. Over four days, attendees moved between technical sessions earning CEU credits, a full vendor showcase featuring the latest tools and technologies in the field, and countless conversations that turned colleagues into collaborators. That mix of substance and connection is what keeps people coming back year after year. The student poster competition returned for another round, giving students a platform to present original research and practical solutions to water challenges facing the state and region. Their work was a reminder that the next generation of water professionals is already asking sharp questions and building real answers – and that investing in them pays off for the whole industry. RETURN TO CONTENTS

Familiar favorites rounded out the week. The social networking picnic gave attendees a chance to unwind and swap ideas outside the conference rooms. The Terri Smith Golf Tournament brought its usual mix of competitive spirit and purpose, with proceeds supporting both organizations' scholarship programs. A networking gaming event and a Young Professionals engagement session offered additional ways to connect, and the conference closed with the annual banquet, where the industry's

achievements over the past year were recognized and celebrated. Between the record attendance and the packed schedule, the 2026 conference stood out even among a strong run of recent years. It's a clear sign of momentum for West Virginia's water sector – and for the partnership between WVWEA and WV AWWA that makes this event possible. Mark your calendar for May 16–19, 2027, when the conference returns to Canaan Valley Resort. If this year's energy is any indication, next year's gathering has a lot to live up to. ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 13

20 26 CONFERENCE Draws Record Crowd ANNUAL WV AWWA/WEA JOINT WATER

2026 West Virginia Water Environment Association Awardees

ARTHUR SIDNEY BEDELL AWARD Acknowledges extraordinary personal service to the WVWEA. It is named for Arthur Sidney Bedell, the second person of the Federation who exemplified its purpose by his long devotion and service to the New York Water Pollution Control Association, the Bureau of Sewage and Waste Disposal of the New York State Department of Health.

LAB ANALYST EXCELLENCE AWARD The Board of Directors established this award in 1993 to recognize individuals for outstanding performance, professionalism, and contributions to the water quality analysis profession.

Recipient – Sara Jones, Huntington Sanitary Board

Recipient – Zach Thompson, The Thrasher Group

WILLIAM D. HATFIELD AWARD Presented to operators of wastewater treatment plants for outstanding performance and professionalism. The award was established in honor of William D. Hatfield, Superintendent of the Decator, Illinois Sanitary District, who was President of the Central States Sewage Works Association in 1944–45 and served as President of the Federation in 1958-59.

GEORGE W. BURKE AWARD Established to encourage an active and effective safety program in municipal and industrial facilities. This award was created in 1982 in honor of George W. Burke, Jr., for his many years of service to both the water environment field and the Federation as staff manager of technical services. Mr. Burke was instrumental in developing the Federation’s annual safety survey and assisting in the production of several safety aids and promotional packets.

Recipient – Lee Adams, City of Huntington Sanitary Board

Recipient – Tim Haapala, Charleston Sanitary Board

14 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | ISSUE 2 2026

RETURN TO CONTENTS

OPERATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD This award is named after Glenn O. Fortney and is presented to an operator to recognize his or her outstanding and dedicated service and professionalism in routine operation

WILSON/WELLMAN COLLECTION SYSTEM OPERATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD In memory of Brian Wilson and Tim Wellman who gave their lives while working at the collection system of Northern Wayne PSD. This award will

and maintenance activities. Mr. Fortney was a pioneer in the training and licensing of wastewater operators in West Virginia and dedicated his career at the State Department of Health to advancing the professional status of these operators.

be presented to an individual or utility for contributions to the advancement of the ‘State of the Art’ in Wastewater Collection based on the performance and compliance of the collection system they operate and their contributions to the wastewater field, and their service to the community.

Recipient – Tony Shirkey, Dunbar Sanitary Board

Recipient – Jacob Dailey, Charleston Sanitary Board

DELEGATE SERVICE AWARD In recognition of the outstanding work by Member Association Delegates in the House of Delegates, WEF provides a Service plaque for each retiring Delegate. The Award is presented to the Delegate at the Member Association Annual Meeting. Delegate Service Awards are ordered by WEF and shipped to the MA prior to the MA Annual Meeting.

PAST PRESIDENT SERVICE AWARD Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers (5S) Selection to this society is in recognition of ‘outstanding, meritorious service above and beyond the call of duty’ to the West Virginia Water Environment Association (WV WEA). Selection bestows the accolade of being elevated “on the official shovel to the highest ridge on the sludge bed, with the title of Select Sludge Shoveler and all the honor, atmosphere, prerequisite and dignity appertaining thereto.”

Recipient – Melisa Powers, West Virginia Environmental Training Center

Zach Thompson, The Thrasher Group Ken Baylous, Hi Jared Cummons, City of Bridgeport

Past President Service Award This award recognizes not just one, but many years of service to a Member Association as an officer. This service includes numerous meetings, dozens of emails, helping coordinate events such as EXPO and this state conference. We are grateful for his hard work, leadership, and passion for our industry.

Recipient – Todd Swanson, Steptoe & Johnson

RETURN TO CONTENTS

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 15

Excellence in Engineering

AN OVATION HOLDINGS COMPANY

Representing: Grundfos • Peerless • PACO • Myers • SyncroFlo • Oldcastle/ONELIFT • Liberty • Precision Pumping Systems • Morris • Yeomans • Chicago • Topp Industries • Primex Controls • Ohio Electric Controls • PumpCon • HCP • WasteCorp • Landustrie

Engineering Design Assistance for New and Existing Equipment

Morgantown, West Virginia

Serving the public and private sectors

•

A full-service, dynamic, multidisciplinary firm

•

12 locations nationwide

YEARS

IN G

800•233•7718 | municipal@sthinc.com

EXC

Contact our Municipal Sales Team

BRATIN LE G

Wastewater Pumping & Water Booster Systems • Custom Controls & Monitoring Solutions

•

Sales and Service Specialization:

IN ENG

608-251-4843 | www.strand.com

97 - D Monocacy Blvd. • Frederick, MD 21701 • www.sthinc.com

PMWI Pleasant Mount Welding, Inc. WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

Standard-Duty Aluminum Interlocking Flat Panel Covers Cover Features

“Innovative Aluminum Cover Design for Water and Wastewater Applications”

√ Double Interlocking Construction

√ 1-Piece Extruded Hinge

√ 6” (Standard) or 3” Wide Deck Planks

√ Gasketed Interlock & Edge Handles

√ 20+ 6061-T6 Aluminum Extrusions

√ Interlock Beam/Support Members

√ 50 psf Live Load (Standard Design)

√ Santoprene Gaskets

√ 400 Lbs. Concentrated Load

√ Slide Latching System

√ L/240 Live Load Deflection Limit\

√ Flush or Top Mount

√ Hinged & Non-Hinged Cover Panels

√ Sturdy Walk-Safe Cover

√ Easy Panel Removal

√ Slip Resistant Striations

√ NEBB Leak Test Certified

√ Standard 2-Year Warranty www.pmwi.net

16 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | ISSUE 2 2026

RETURN TO CONTENTS

Member Spotlight In each issue of Mountain Currents, we highlight a member of the West Virginia Water Environment Association. Enjoy getting to know them!

Name: Matt Brenner Job Title: Sales Engineer Company/Utility: PumpMan West Virginia/Water & Wastewater Years in the Water/Wastewater Field: 15+ Years Years as a WVWEA Member: 0 -1 1. What's your current role, and what does a typical day (or week) look like for you? I currently work as a manufacturer’s representative. A typical day/week includes meeting with operational staff at water and wastewater municipal plants throughout West Virginia to troubleshoot issues and provide equipment options to replace aging or failing infrastructure. I also work with Engineers across the state to recommend equipment for design projects that help improve and expand water and wastewater systems for the communities they serve. 2. What first drew you to a career in the water/wastewater field? Water is one of the world’s most essential resources. I felt this career would allow me to make a meaningful impact by helping provide clean, reliable drinking water to communities that need it. I also value the opportunity to help improve wastewater treatment, protecting our rivers and streams and contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment. 3. What’s a project or accomplishment from your career that you’re especially proud of? I don’t have one particular project that stands out. Instead, I’m most proud of helping municipalities solve their water and wastewater challenges. I get a great deal of satisfaction from working with customers every day to find solutions to the wide variety of complex problems they face.

RETURN TO CONTENTS

4. How has your involvement with WVWEA impacted your career or professional network? Since joining WVWEA, I’ve increased my visibility and built valuable relationships with industry leaders throughout the state. I look forward to continuing to network with the outstanding engineers, operators, regulators, and other professionals who help advance West Virginia’s water and wastewater industry. 5. What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I enjoy spending time with family and being outdoors. Some of my favorite activities include golfing, fishing, hunting, and playing a variety of sports with my daughter. 6. Do you have any hobbies, family traditions, or a hidden talent most people wouldn’t guess? I enjoy playing and coaching sports. As a family, we also love attending/watching the WVU Mountaineers football and basketball games. 7. What’s your favorite spot in West Virginia, or a place you love to travel to? My favorite spot to visit in West Virginia is Seneca Rocks. I also enjoy traveling to Holden Beach, North Carolina, for family beach vacations.

I felt this career would allow me to make a meaningful impact by helping provide clean, reliable drinking water to communities that need it.

8. If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting in this field, what would it be? Be honest, work hard, and respect the knowledge and experience of those who have been in the industry before you. Prioritize continuing education as technology is constantly evolving and new, better solutions are being developed every day.

Thank you, Matt, for sharing a bit about yourself with your fellow WVWEA members!

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 17

AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY TELLS THE STORY OF WASTEWATER

AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY

Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong

highlights wastewater industry with honesty and humor By Jenny Craft, Communications Coordinator – South Carolina Section of AWWA and the Water Environment Association of SC Originally published in South Carolina The Journal Summer 2026

new documentary described by its makers as a “buddy comedy about poop and the pursuit of making a better world” is helping start serious conversations about wastewater in communities across the country. Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong is an independent film released last fall that follows the staff at Portland Water District’s East End Wastewater Treatment Facility in Maine. It’s honest and funny, giving viewers an uncensored peek into the daily life of wastewater plant operators. “I think this is an important film. It’s vulnerable, and I’m really proud as an organization that we had the courage to let this happen and to be a part of it. I hope others can use this to help educate and inform the public of just how hard we work, how important the work we do is, and the need for investment,” said Scott Firmin, General Manager of Portland Water District.

18 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | ISSUE 2 2026

The documentary was created by husband-and-wife filmmaking team Alex Wolf Lewis and Kaitlyn Schwalje, who got the idea after taking a public tour of the plant in 2021. “We met Dustin Price [lead operator featured in the film], and pretty quickly realized there was a magical story. We just kinda fell in love with the whole wastewater world instantly,” said Alex Lewis, the film’s director and cinematographer. Filming took two-and-a-half years during a difficult time for Portland Water District. The plant faced a biosolids disposal crisis, failure of the plant’s secondary clarifiers, and retiring operators. These challenges are woven into the storyline, but the dedication of the plant’s staff takes center stage. “As honest as the film is, I think everybody is nodding their head and saying there is an element to public service that this encapsulates where we are far from perfect,” said Scott Firmin. “We have investment in infrastructure challenges, but we are very focused on protecting water quality and serving the public. And I think that shines through.”

RETURN TO CONTENTS

TELLS THE STORY OF WASTEWATER

AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY TELLS THE STORY OF WASTEWATER

The documentary has been well received by the film world and the wastewater community. It won the Audience Award at its debut during the Camden International Film Festival in September 2025. “It was such a beautiful moment because the film is about these guys and the industry not getting the time of day, and so we’re playing the film in front of 400-500 people, and after the film, the guys get on stage and they get a full standing ovation,” said Alex Lewis. The film is being distributed grassroots-style, meaning it isn’t available on streaming platforms – only through private screenings hosted by utilities, industry organizations, cities, schools, and community organizations. So far, more than 30 screenings have been held, mostly in New England and California, but word is spreading fast, and 100 additional screenings are in the works, including several in South Carolina. “You go to these screenings and people are laughing, they’re having fun, and they’re getting connected and learning about wastewater. I couldn’t wish for a better community

engagement event or exercise,” said Michelle Clements, Portland Water District’s director of communications and public relations. Various civic and environmental organizations in Maine have hosted screenings at a local art museum that’s had a number of sold-out showings. Anyone can schedule a showing by emailing wastewaterfilm@gmail.com and paying a screening fee, which helps recoup the cost of making the film. “It’s funny, there’s a lot of overlap between wastewater and independent film. It’s this thing we all value, right – clean water and entertainment, and I think now because of the way the world is people just expect a lot of things to be free, but there’s a lot of work, many people behind the scenes over many years coming together to make a film like this,” said Alex Lewis. Scott Firmin and Michelle Clements of Portland Water District said it took some time and convincing to agree to the project, but they couldn’t be happier with how it turned out and the impact it’s having on public understanding of wastewater treatment. “It all started from a tour. I think it’s a great reminder to our industry that community engagement is important and it can really snowball into something incredible,” said Michelle Clements.

Portland Water District staff on stage during a screening of Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong. Provided by Portland Water District.

HOST A SCREENING To schedule a screening, email filmmaker Alex Lewis at wastewaterfilm@gmail.com. Tips for success: Partner with another utility, organization, or sponsor; invite the community; hold a panel discussion.

RETURN TO CONTENTS

Film Details Title: Unless Something Goes Terrible Wrong Synopsis: As America’s aging wastewater systems begin to fail, one plant and its motley crew of unlikely heroes do all they can to stay afloat. Length: 73 minutes Website & Trailer: www.cardboardseagull.com Be aware: The film includes several instances of foul language.

ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 19

AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY TELLS THE STORY OF WASTEWATER

AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY

Q&A with the Filmmaker and Portland Water District Here are excerpts of my interviews with film director Alex Lewis and Scott Firmin and Michelle Clements of Portland Water District. Edited for length and readability. – Jenny Craft

ALEX LEWIS

Director and Cinematographer INTERVIEW WITH THE FILMMAKER

Why did you create this film? Alex Lewis: It all comes back to my wife Kaitlyn. She is obsessed with infrastructure. When we moved to Maine, I reached out to the local wastewater plant. They offer tours throughout the warm months. I took her, we met Dustin [lead operator featured in the film], and pretty quickly realized there was a magical story. We just kinda fell in love with the whole wastewater world instantly. It had everything we could need in a documentary – great characters, a built-in story where things were gonna happen, and then high stakes. Without wastewater treatment, people die, cities can’t exist, and then it had the added bonus that nobody seems to know anything about wastewater except if something fails, which is honestly pretty infrequently, and I’m surprised by that given what I know now about the state of infrastructure.

Was Portland Water District receptive to the idea? Alex Lewis: It took a lot of convincing, and I think it goes back to water and wastewater’s relationship to the media. It’s usually negative and kind of reactive to something bad happening. It took a lot of time and trust, like any relationship. It’s really hard to explain to somebody what it means to be in a documentary. It’s a big commitment... they took a big leap of faith in letting us in.

What have you learned about the wastewater industry, and what surprised you about the people you’ve met in the industry? Alex Lewis: I’m surprised that no matter who I meet in wastewater, no matter where they are, no matter where they work, that they’re all just so incredibly hard working, smart, funny, just internally motivated, like the best group of people I’ve ever met. I’m surprised by how eclectic the background of people who work in wastewater is, and that nobody seems to have a direct path to it. But once they’re in it, most people almost never leave and they love it. I didn’t know how bad the national state of infrastructure was. I think we had an idea, but didn’t know how far-reaching it was. I think wastewater people are too good at their jobs because they’re able to act as a band-aid to all the problems that exist, and if they weren’t as good at their jobs, things would probably fail quicker and then maybe there would be more funding. They keep things running despite all the challenges they face.

For those of us who aren’t familiar with the film industry, what was involved in making this film, and why did you choose to distribute it grassroots-style instead of on a platform like Netflix?

Alex Lewis: I think they loved it from the beginning, but I think it was hard for them to watch because this was such a difficult year for them... but now seeing how well it’s being received, how it’s being embraced by the community, by the public and it’s creating all this opportunity for conversation. I think they recognize the value in taking a more honest approach to what’s happening behind the scenes, and people are responding well to that.

Alex Lewis: There’s so much around making a film. The industry as a whole is going through a period of consolidation, so there’s not as many avenues to sell your film, and the amount of money people are getting from a Netflix or a Hulu is going down. There remains this great avenue [grassroots distribution], and it’s kind of like turning the film into an event where people can come watch it together, and maybe have a panel discussion. All the money that is being made from the screenings is going directly back to the filmmaking team that spent years working for free basically to make this film on a topic we have come to care about dearly and has become our mission.

What’s your hope for the film?

How has the film been received by audiences?

Alex Lewis: We have these higher level aspirations of maybe being able to move things on a policy level or maybe help get more funding, or bring more people into the industry, but on a very basic level, it’s just letting people know that wastewater exists and raising awareness, which I think it’s doing slowly, bit by bit.

Alex Lewis: Now that we’ve been doing so many screenings around Maine, some of the wastewater guys are getting recognized at the supermarket. The joke is like, oh they’re gonna have to start wearing sunglasses or saying, “Sorry, no photos please.” The perception of them now is like oh, that guy’s really taking care of me, he’s a hometown hero.

What was their reaction to the film?

20 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | ISSUE 2 2026

RETURN TO CONTENTS

TELLS THE STORY OF WASTEWATER

AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY TELLS THE STORY OF WASTEWATER

SCOTT FIRMIN General Manager

INTERVIEW WITH PORTLAND WATER DISTRICT What was your reaction when you first saw the film? Scott Firmin: I was struck immediately by our people, our operators, the dedication they have, but also some of the struggles. We had cameras there for about two and a half years. It’s one thing to live your life, it’s another to see your life on the screen with the people around you. It’s a very real and a very honest depiction of what we do. And my final sense was just how different it is from how we normally communicate. And I think admittedly it took us a little while to become okay with that. Michelle Clements: We saw a few different versions as they were tweaking it at the end. The final version that I saw at the film festival was just really moving. And talking to people that have seen it... they’re just kind of speechless. It really does land quite well. Scott Firmin: We’ve got the silver tsunami with so many retirements, and they do a nice job of highlighting the impact that’s having. It shows some of our newer employees not only stepping up, but developing. And it also shows the leadership of Dustin Price, our chief operator, and how he’s facing aging equipment and new staff and leading through that with courage and honesty.

What was your community’s response to the film? Scott Firmin: It’s been very positive. As honest as the film is, I think everybody is nodding their head and saying there is an element to public service that this encapsulates where we are far from perfect. We have investment in infrastructure challenges, but we are very focused on protecting water quality and serving the public. And I think that shines through. Michelle Clements: You go to these screenings and people are laughing, they’re having fun, and they’re getting connected and learning about wastewater. I couldn’t wish for a better community engagement event or exercise.

How did the idea for the film come about, and what was your initial response? Scott Firmin: Dustin gave a plant tour [that the filmmakers attended]. At the time, I was his direct supervisor before being promoted to general manager. And Dustin said, “I just gave a couple a tour, and they do films. They’d like to do a film about us.” And honestly, I ignored Dustin. RETURN TO CONTENTS

MICHELLE CLEMENTS

Director of Communications and Public Relations

They reached out several more times, maybe seven or eight in total. And Dustin arranged a conversation with them. We spoke, and then we introduced them to Michelle Clements and some of our senior staff. And that’s how it began. We saw the potential, and I don’t think we could have anticipated something this special. But it took a little while to get comfortable. Michelle Clements: There were some reservations. We of course wanted to maintain some final oversight, and that just wasn’t going to happen. We really had to let go and trust the process and trust the filmmakers. They showed that they were very passionate as we are about the subject and the people. There was a lot of trust building.

What was the filming process like? Scott Firmin: It was a challenging time with the biosolids crisis and other things. It was also challenging because we had a $5.5 million project that was put off for five years so that we didn’t impact our user fees. It was our secondary clarifiers. They’re critical to an activated sludge process, and we were losing those as this film was being created. It was a difficult time to have somebody in there filming, but they were there. There was only one time I was aware, and it’s actually captured in the film, where Dustin is holding his head and he says, “You guys were calling and calling and calling, but I couldn’t have you in here.” And so they were there whenever they really wanted to be, as long as they called. They were there on New Year’s Eve following one of our operators around.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about the reception of the film and its impact? Scott Firmin: I think this is an important film. It’s vulnerable, and I’m really proud as an organization that we had the courage to let this happen and to be a part of it. I hope others can use this to help educate and inform the public of just how hard we work, how important the work we do is, and the need for investment. I’ve joked that I wished it was about somebody else, but we did it, and I couldn’t be more proud of the filmmakers and our people for having the courage to be part of this. Michelle Clements: It all started from a tour. I think it’s a great reminder to our industry that community engagement is important and it can really snowball into something incredible. ISSUE 2 2026 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | 21

ADVERTISER PRODUCT & SERVICE CENTER Mountain Currents is made possible by the companies below who convey their important messages on our pages. We thank them for their support of WV WEA and its publication and encourage you to contact them when making your purchasing decisions. To make it easier to contact these companies, we have included the page number of their advertisement, their phone number, and, where applicable, their website.

COMPANY

PAGE

PHONE

WEBSITE

A&H Equipment Co.

412-257-1160

www.ahequipment.com

Aquatic Informatics, Inc.

304-374-1490

www.aquaticinformatics.com

AUMA Actuators, Inc.

724-743-2862

www.auma-usa.com

Best Management Products, Inc.

800-504-8008

www.bmpinc.com

BissNuss, Inc.

412-221-1200

www.bissnussinc.com

Chapman Technical Group

304-727-5501

www.chaptech.com

Emerald Coast Manufacturing

850-469-1142

www.emeraldcoastmfg.com

Flomatic Valves

800-833-2040

www.flomatic.com

Ghosh Engineers, Inc.

304-343-5300

www.ghosheng.com

Gwin, Dobson, & Foreman, Inc.

814-943-5214

www.gdfengineers.com

HDR

412-497-6000

www.hdrinc.com

Industrial Service Solutions

888-384-2111

www.iss-na.com

Lakeside Equipment Corporation

630-837-5640

www.lakeside-equipment.com

Pleasant Mount Welding, Inc.

570-282-6164

www.pmwi.net

PumpMan Pittsburgh

412-487-7140

www.pumpman.com/pittsburgh

STH, Inc.

301-682-3390

www.sthinc.com

Strand Associates, Inc.

812-372-9911

www.strand.com

U.S. Pipe

866-347-7473

www.uspipe.com

West Virginia American Water

800-685-8660

www.westvirginiaamwater.com

Official Publication

of the West Virginia

Water Environment

Association

ISSUE 2 2026

A/ ANNUAL WV AWW

WE A JOINT WAT

CONFERENCE d Draws Record Crow

To reach water professionals through Mountain Currents and its targeted readership, contact Dave to discuss your company’s promotional plans.

DAVE GILL, Marketing Manager Requested. Address Service Environment Assocation West Virginia Water WV 25361 P.O. Box 5262, Charleston,

22 | MOUNTAIN CURRENTS | ISSUE 2 2026

Phone: 866-985-9791 • Fax: 866-985-9799 Email: david@kelman.ca RETURN TO CONTENTS

EXCELLENCE. TEAMWORK. ACHIEVEMENT. DEDICATION.

West Virginia American Water serves one in three West Virginia residents – that’s 583,000 people in more than 430 communities – and places its primary focus on providing safe, reliable water and wastewater service to our customers. INVESTED IN OUR FACILITIES

HIGH-QUALITY WATER SERVICE

Our team of experts regularly monitor, maintain and upgrade our facilities to continue to operate efficiently and meet regulatory standards. This requires investing millions each year in our water and wastewater infrastructure. We do this because we care about our customers as much as we care about water.

We have an exceptional track record when it comes to water quality and drinking water regulatory compliance. Our water quality and treatment plant operators perform thousands of tests every year. Plus, we have access to American Water’s Central Laboratory, which conducts sophisticated drinking water testing and analysis.

Statewide, West Virginia American Water invested

$112 MILLION

in 2025 to improve the water and wastewater treatment and pipeline systems.

PARTNERSHIP FOR SAFE WATER AWARDS We take water quality so seriously that all seven of our surface water treatment plants have been nationally recognized with Directors Awards from the American Water Works Association and U.S. EPA’s Partnership for Safe Water program.

Join our expert team. Learn more about career opportunities at West Virginia American Water at www.amwater.com/corp/careers.

Unmatched resilience

BRIDGE CROSSINGS ▲

U.S. Pipe ductile iron pipe is engineered for unmatched environmental resilience, performing reliably in deep-bury conditions and across extreme hot and cold temperatures. Its exceptional strength makes it ideal for demanding applications such as bridge crossings and long spans where structural integrity is critical. Unlike alternative materials, ductile iron pipe can be precisely customized to site-specific conditions, delivering a durable, adaptable solution designed to protect water infrastructure in any environment.

IONS ▲ WINTER CONDIT

CHALLENG ING TERRA IN

For more info, visit us online at uspipe.com

▲

Scan here to see why ductile iron meets the challenge.