Mountain Currents – Issue 1 2024

Got Leaks?

Interested in a proactive approach to leak detection? Kamstrups’ exclusive ALD Technology feature on the flowIQ meter has allowed municipalities in recouping lost water revenue. This technology identifies leaks of all sizes, enabling their promt repair and restoration, minimizing water loss for the utility.

Contact your state Meter Specialist or Kamstrup’s Regional Sales Manager for more details

kamstrup.com/ald-us

Fortiline Waterworks

Peter Callanan West Virginia Meter Specialist (571) 474-9436 peter.callanan@fortiline.com

Kamstrup

Mark Patience Regional Representative (919) 338-6760 mkpe@kamstrup.com

GRINDER PUMPS

Managing Editor: Scott Kelman

Marketing Manager: David Gill

Design/Layout: Jackie Magat

Advertising Co-ordinator: Stefanie Hagidiakow

President

Nick Akers – nakers@centec-engineering.com

President Elect

Todd Swanson – todd.swanson@steptoe-johnson.com

1st Vice President

Charlie McKenzie – charliemckenzie@servicepump.com

2nd Vice President

Zach Thompson – zthompson@thethrashergroup.com

2024 WV WEA Board Members

NICK AKERS

President nakers@centec-engineering.com

CHARLIE MCKENZIE

1st Vice President charliemckenzie@servicepump.com

TERI MERRIFIELD

Immediate Past President teri.merrifield@aquaticinformatics.com

MATT DAWSON Secretary/Treasurer matt@ghosheng.com

TODD SWANSON

President Elect todd.swanson@steptoe-johnson.com

ZACH THOMPSON

2nd Vice President zthompson@thethrashergroup.com

SCOTT KELLY POTW Director skelley@huntingtonsb.com

Welcome Back and Announcing the Joint Water Conference!

Nick Akers, PE President, West Virginia Water Environment Association

Dear Members of the West Virginia Water Environment Association, It is with immense gratifi cation that I welcome you back to our newsletter! This marks our fi rst offi cial communication since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that undoubtedly presented unique challenges for all of us. Throughout these diffi cult times, the West Virginia Water Environment Association witnessed fi rsthand the unwavering commitment of its members to safeguarding the health and well-being of our communities by ensuring clean and sustainable water resources. Your dedication, expertise, and resilience are truly commendable.

The West Virginia Water Environment Association, along with the West Virginia American Water Works Association, are excited to continue building our connections and share valuable knowledge within the two organizations. We are thrilled to announce the upcoming annual West Virginia Water Conference being held at the beautiful Glade Springs Resort from May 19-22, 2024. This exciting event marks a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share knowledge and best practices, and stay at the forefront of the ever-evolving water environment field.

The conference promises a jam-packed schedule featuring:

• Informative presentations by leading industry experts.

• Engaging Operator Training Sessions on a variety of relevant topics.

• Networking opportunities to connect with fellow water professionals from across the state.

• Exhibits showcasing the latest advancements within the water sector.

Beyond the educational aspects, the conference fosters a vibrant environment for building professional networks. Mingle with fellow water environment professionals from across West Virginia during dedicated networking events and informal gatherings. Share best practices, exchange ideas, and forge connections that can benefit your professional development and career trajectory. This is a pivotal event for anyone involved in West Virginia’s water environment sector! Whether you are a seasoned professional, a rising star in the field, or simply passionate about protecting our state’s water resources, the Joint Water Conference has something to offer you.

For detailed information on the conference schedule, speaker lineup, and registration process, please visit our website at https:// wvwaterconference.com. We encourage you to register early, as space is limited and securing your spot ensures participation in this valuable event.

The West Virginia Water Environment Association looks forward to seeing you all at Glade Springs Resort in May! Together, let’s make this Joint Water Conference a resounding success and a catalyst for continued innovation and collaboration within the West Virginia water environment sector.

News from WEF

Teri Merrifield

WEFMAX 2024

Join WEF, the WEFMAX Committee and the 2024 Host MAs (Virginia WEA, WEA of Utah, and Florida WEA) in celebrating 50 years of WEFMAX in 2024. Questions: Contact WEF Staff Dianne Crilley. To register, click on your WEFMAX of choice listed below.

• WEFMAX in Alexandria, VA – April 10-12, 2024 Theme is Collaboration & Engagement

The Nebraska WEA, Illinois WEA, AZ Water, Michigan WEA, and Ohio WEA have confi rmed to present in the MA Sharing Session.

• WEFMAX in Park City, UT – May 15-17, 2024 Theme is Putting the WE in WEF: Investing in the Potential of your Membership

The WEA of Texas, Illinois WEA, and Clean Water Professionals – KT have confi rmed to present in the MA Sharing Session. We have room for one more, please let Dianne Crilley know if your MA would like to present in the MA Sharing Session. Topics can be anything your MA wants to present and does not have to be based on the WEFMAX theme.

• WEFMAX in St. Petersburg, FL – May 29-31, 2024 Theme is Leadership of the Future

The WEA of South Carolina, Chesapeake WEA, and WEA of Ontario have confi rmed to present in the MA Sharing Session. We have room for one more, please let Dianne Crilley know if your MA would like to present in the MA Sharing Session. Topics can be anything your MA wants to present and does not have to be based on the WEFMAX theme.

WEF MA GRANT PROGRAM

2nd Deadline: June 19, 2024

WEF and the Board of Trustees are committed to supporting Member Association (MAs) to ensure our mutual success. The second round of the MA Grant Program is currently open for MAs to access! These grants are intended to assist in providing member value locally and to support MA operations, sustainability, and growth, and must support MA as well as WEF critical objectives and strategic goals. MAs may be awarded a single grant per year from November 1 through July 30 through an online form on the MA Resource Center. The second deadline is Wednesday, June 19, 2024, 12:00 am Eastern time. Visit www.wef.org for additional information and to access the online form. Questions? Please contact Rebecca Culhane.

WORK FOR WATER: A GREAT CAREER FOR A GREAT CAUSE

WorkforWater.org is a place for students and job seekers to find resources on green careers that make a real diff erence. The site off ers a ton of resources to find jobs or prepare for rewarding careers in protecting public health and the environment. Member Associations can take a look at their state/region page(s) and if there are any missing resources or links that need to be updated, use the form at the bottom of the page or email workforwater@wef.org.

WEFTEC 2024: LEADING THE FUTURE OF WATER

The Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition & Conference (WEFTEC) will be held October 5-9, 2024 at the Ernest N Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, LA. Meetings such as the WEF Board, HOD and the MA Leaders Forum will be held at the Hilton Riverside (WEF Headquarters Hotel). A Schedule-at-a-Glance off ers attendees a glimpse of events and is subject to change. Sign up for WEFTEC Updates to get the vital opportunities, schedules and details you need to make the most of WEFTEC. Stay tuned, as registration opened in April.

TERI MERRIFIELD Senior Technical Account Executive

JOIN US AT GLADE SPRINGS RESORT

2024 ANNUAL JOINT WATER CONFERENCE

WV-AWWA and WV-WEA Members and Families:

On behalf of the West Virginia Section of the American Water Works Association and the West Virginia Water Environment Association Board of Directors, please allow us to extend a warm welcome and invitation to you to attend the 2024 Annual Joint Water Conference. This year’s conference will take place at Glade Springs Resort in Daniels.

We are going to keep our schedule from last year. Festivities will begin on Sunday, May 19, 2024, with our annual picnic from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Town Square Pavilion. We will be having food, drinks, cornhole, live music, and raffle prizes at the picnic. The Terry Smith Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for Monday after lunch. For those that don’t golf, we’ll be hosting a networking event Monday after lunch, with games and prizes!

We’ll be providing numerous WVBPH approved CEH credit opportunities for water and wastewater, with certificates at the conclusion of each seminar session. We are also going to offer additional training and CEH credit opportunities on Wednesday of the conference!

We also anticipate a full exhibit hall with the latest water and wastewater industry related technology displayed and expert technical representatives to present their information. This year

the exhibit hall will be set up in the foyer, so conference attendees have access to the displays during breaks and in between classes throughout the conference. Their participation helps make our conference possible each year through their generous support, so please check out all they have to offer.

Tuesday evening, we will host our annual Awards Banquet where we will recognize water and wastewater industry leaders for their unwavering dedication to protection of public health and the environment. We will celebrate with dinner, drinks, and some storytelling!

The conference will conclude on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 with the Board Meetings – or our final training classes for those that are interested in additional CEH credits.

We encourage you to come and take advantage of everything that this year’s conference has to offer –great food, fun, fellowship, professional development, and the latest technologies in the exhibit hall.

See you at Glade!

Sean Farrell

Nick Akers Chairman, WV-AWWA President, WV-WEA

ANNUAL AWWA/WEA JOINT CONFERENCE

Registration Form

Glade Springs Resort | 255 Resort Drive, Daniels, WV

Section I – Registration Selection

Tuesday Banquet Dinner Ticket Only = $ 45

Exhibitor Registration

Section II – Vendor Registration (This form is for vendors wishing to reserve space in the Exhibit Hall)

Company/Organization:

Representative Name: Representative Name:

Representative Name: Representative Name: Address: City/State/ZIP: Phone: Email:

One Booth Space registration includes breakfast and lunch on Monday and Tuesday, and Banquet Tickets for two people

Booths will be in the Rotunda. Do you need electrical power? Yes No SECTION II – Sub-Total: $ Contact Rocky Bragg with questions

Terry Smith Memorial Golf Tournament

Monday, May 20, 2024

AWWA/WEA Annual Golf Outing | Cobb Golf Course (Daniels, WV)

FORMAT: Scramble format

TIME: 2:00 pm (please arrive by 1:30 pm)

PRIZES: Team prize winners will be announced at the picnic at the Town Square Pavilion. Prizes will be awarded for three fl ights as well as cash prizes for longest drive, closest to the pin, and longest putt.

COST: $100.00 per person (includes green fees, cart, lunch and prizes)

Any questions? Please contact Charlie McKenzie (Phone: 304-417-3525 or echarliemckenzie@servicepump.com) or Sean Farrell (Phone: 304-429-6731 ext. 190 or seanfarrell@servicepump.com)

Fun! That’s what this is all about, whether you are a scratch golfer or scratch at golfing.

PLEASE SEND REGISTRATION FORM AND ENTRY FEE ASAP

You may enter as a team or as an individual. If registering as an individual, we will place you on a team. All players who are registering as a team must be placed on one form. If your company wants to sponsor a team, we will supply players who work in the water/waste industry and could be your customers or future customers!

Player #1:

Name:

Company:

Address:

City/State/ZIP:

Phone:

Email:

Player #2:

Name:

Company:

Address:

City/State/ZIP:

Phone:

Email:

Player #3:

Name:

Company:

Address:

City/State/ZIP:

Phone:

Email:

Player #4:

Name:

Company:

Address:

City/State/ZIP:

Phone:

Email:

ANNUAL AWWA/WEA JOINT CONFERENCE

SUNDAY, MAY 19 – WEDNESDAY, MAY 22, 2024

Registration & Payment – Deadline April 4, 2024 (Late Fee = $25)

Please indicate any food allergies or dietary restrictions here:

Registration Information:

SECTION I – Attendee Registration Sub-Total: $

SECTION II – Vendor Registration Sub-Total: $

SECTION III – Special Events Sub-Total: $

GRAND TOTAL: $ Payment Information:

Express VISA

Credit Card Number:

Billing Address: City: State:

SUBMIT YOUR REGISTRATION VIA ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:

MAIL: WV AWWA, Attn: Michael Staley, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, Charleston, WV 25302

EMAIL: Submit completed registration forms via email to wvawwa@yahoo.com

ONLINE: Registration & Payment can be completed online at www.wvwaterconference.com

Check (made payable to: WV AWWA)

*NOTE: This registration does not cover lodging accommodations at Glade Springs. Please review the instructions on the following page to book your lodging.

Lodging Information

Main Resort

Check in: 4:00 pm | Check out: 11:00 am

Guests arriving prior to check in time shall be accomodated as rooms become available. No specifi c room type is guaranteed. No specifi c room type is guaranteed. Room locations cannot be guaranteed. Please call early for best selection.

Room Rates are $119.00 per room per night plus applicable taxes and fees. To make your reservation, please call 877-814-7316 and identify yourself as being with WV Joint Water Conference Room Block.

A major credit card will be required upon reserving the individual rooms and a seven day cancellation period would apply, whereby an attendee canceling their reservation within seven days of arrival will be charged one night’s lodging.

Reservations will be accepted in the WV Joint Water Conference Room Block until Thursday, April 4, 2024.

NETWORKING GAME EVENT

If your company is interested in being a sponsor or donating prizes, please reach out to Paige Thewes at paige.thewes@amwater.com or Teri Merrifield at teri.merrifield@aquaticinformatics.com.

Games Include: Card and Board Games, Bingo, Cornhole Tournament, Cup Pong, and a Light Versus Dark Scavenger Hunt. Sponsored By the AWWA and WEA Young Professionals Committee Monday. May 20 at 2:00 pm in the Glade Room

SUNDAY, MAY 19 – WEDNESDAY, MAY 22, 2024

Sponsorship Form

If you would like to be a sponsor at the AWWA/WEA Annual Joint Water Conference, please fill out the information below. With your sponsorship, your company will receive recognition at the golf outing, the picnic, and the banquet dinner.

Please select your golf sponsorship level:

Sponsor – Gold* (4 needed)

Drive (1 needed)

*Only one sponsor sign will be at each tee and at each green

These events and programs are made possible by volunteers who want to give back to the water industry. Please consider “paying it forward” and contributing to the cause – investing in our infrastructure and our people.

Please select your event sponsorship:

Sponsorship:

*Picnic Sponsors are needed to help cover food and beverage fees. Gold level will have their logo displayed at the picnic and company recognized. Silver will have their company name recognized. TOTAL SPONSORSHIP: $

Procedures and Guidelines for Exhibitors

Location: Foyer at the Main Hotel Lodge at Glade Springs Resort, Daniels, WV.

Exhibit Spaces: Exhibit spaces will measure approx. 4' x 6' tables will be provided by the resort. Spaces will be assigned on a first come first serve basis. Size of table subject to change. Power available, but must be requested.

Type of Exhibit: Exhibits shall be limited to displays, (literature, demonstrations, products) which can be accommodated within the space allotted.

Exhibit Hall: Conference meals will be held in the same room as the exhibit hall. Please bring your own extension cords. There will be door prizes given away in the exhibitor’s hall both days.

Set up Time: Monday, May 19 – 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Tear Down: Tear down may start Tuesday, May 21, after 8:00 pm

All displays must be removed by Wednesday, May 25, before 10:00 am

Display Hours: Monday, May 20 – 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesday, May 21 – 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

In the exhibit hall there will be appetizers, refreshments, cash bar, and plenty of door prizes.

Inquiries: Please direct inquiries to Rocky Bragg at 304-989-8960.

Security: The Resort will not be responsible for lost or stolen property. You are responsible for your area during the show.

Picnic: The picnic is 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Sunday, May 19 at the Town Square Pavilion.

Golf Tournament: The Terry Smith Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for Monday, May 20 with a 2:00 pm start at the Cobb Golf Course at Glade. Golf registration and sponsor forms are included in this packet. If you don’t have enough for a foursome and would like for us to fi ll out your team, we’d be happy to do so!

Reserve your space early! Reservations will be taken on a first-come, first-serve, first-paid basis.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

This year’s Water Environment Association (WEA) conference May 19-22, 2024. Will start off with a social picnic on Sunday May 19.

Monday, May 20, will start with educational classes containing two continuing education hours in the morning

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

The West Virginia Water Environment Association (WV WEA) wants to increase its membership. We encourage people to join WV WEA and Water Environment Federation (WEF) by going to WEF’s website https://www.wef.org. During the signup process, potential members can choose to join the WV WEA as a part of their WEF membership. The WV WEA has recently applied and received a WEF Grant for the WV WEA Newsletter/ Website. The WV WEA wishes to pursue another WEF Grant for a membership drive capped by a welcome event soon. For those of you that are interested in joining the Water Environment Federation, but do not know what it is.

According to the WEF website, the Water Environment Federation (WEF) is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization of more than 30,000 individual members and 75 affiliated Member Associations (MAs) representing water quality professionals around the world. Since 1928, WEF and its members have protected public health and the environment. WEF and its global network of members and member associations provide water quality professionals around the world with the latest in water quality education, training, and business

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

sessions and in the afternoon, you can take part in a golf outing on the Cobb golf course, or you can take part in social gaming events at the conference hall.

Tuesday, May 21, is considered operator day for the conference and

opportunities. WEF’s diverse membership includes scientists, engineers, regulators, academics, utility managers, plant operators, and other professionals. WEF uses this collective knowledge to further a shared goal of improving water quality around the world.

WEF is operating under a new Strategic Plan built on the vision of a life free of water challenges. Our ultimate goal is a world where each person has access to clean water and sanitation, where communities prosper, and where nature thrives. The key strategic goals under the new Strategic Plan are: 1) to attract and develop a diverse and passionate workforce; 2) to cultivate a purpose-driven community to sustainably solve water challenges for all; and 3) to lead the transformation to the circular water economy.

The new Strategic Plan embodies WEF’s embrace of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. WEF is committed to equity and inclusion in all aspects of our work, including within the governance structure and leadership, WEF partners, WEF staff, and the WEF membership. This commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion will guide our work and our programs, culminating

The WEA Nominating Committee is currently accepting applications from wastewater operators to fill an upcoming vacancy on the board. The vacant board position will be the second vice president. If you are interested, please contact Nominating Committee Chairman, Todd Swanson at 304-353-8148 or todd.swanson@steptoe-johnson.com

operator wishing to obtain five hours of continuing education hours can register for this day and enjoy a good mix of hands on and class education.

Wednesday, May 22, the conference will finish at 12:00 pm with a potential four additional continuing education hours.

in outcomes that improve public health for all.

WEF is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization of more than 30,000 individual members and 75 affiliated Member Associations representing water quality professionals around the world. Since 1928, WEF and its members have protected public health and the environment.

Previously called the Federation of Sewage Works Associations (1928), the Federation of Sewage and Industrial Wastes Associations (1950), and the Water Pollution Control Federation (1960); the name was changed to the Water Environment Federation in 1991 to reflect an expanded focus on non-point and point sources of pollution.

WEF and its global network of members and Member Associations (MAs) provide water quality professionals around the world with the latest in water quality education, training, and business opportunities. WEF’s diverse membership includes scientists, engineers, regulators, academics, utility managers, plant operators, and other professionals. WEF uses this collective knowledge to further a shared goal of improving water quality around the world.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

NEWSLETTER WEBSITE COMMITTEE

Organization Summary:

The West Virginia Water Environment Association (WVWEA), an affiliate of the national Water Environment Federation (WEF) has recently secured a Member Association (MA) matching grant from WEF to rebrand and rebuild its magazine and website. We have partnered with Kelman & Associates to spearhead the transformation process. Additionally, a portion of the grant will be allocated for communication and marketing initiatives aimed at increasing audience engagement and outreach.

Rebranding Strategy:

WV WEA aims to reposition its magazine and website as premier sources of information and inspiration for individuals and communities interested in the wastewater industry. The rebranding strategy will focus on creating visually compelling and informative content that resonates with a diverse audience. Emphasis will be placed on user-friendly design, engaging storytelling, multimedia integration, and better communication tools to enhance the overall user and member experience.

Website Reconstruction:

WV WEA’s website will undergo a comprehensive reconstruction to improve functionality, navigation, and accessibility. The redesigned website will feature a modern layout, intuitive interface, and responsive design to ensure compatibility across various devices and platforms. Interactive elements, such as an event calendar, multimedia galleries, and educational resources will be incorporated to foster better engagement and interaction.

Magazine Redesign:

WVWEA’s magazine will undergo a complete redesign to reflect the new brand identity and messaging. The revamped publication will showcase high-quality photography, compelling articles, and thought-provoking editorial content focused on local, state, and national industry issues. Special emphasis will be placed on highlighting innovative projects, success stories, and actionable tips to provide our readers with ideas to implement in their utilities and daily lives.

Impact and Outreach:

Through the rebranding and rebuilding of our magazine and website, WV WEA aims to

expand its reach and impact within the WV wastewater community. We seek to attract a broader audience of industry leaders, utility specialists, policymakers, educators, and businesses. By providing valuable resources, insights, and highlighting member success stories, WVWEA aims to promote the work our members do every day to improve water quality throughout the state while continuing

to provide quality training, outreach, and assistance to our members.

Overall, the grant-funded initiative to rebrand and rebuild WV WEA’s magazine and website represents a significant step forward in the organization’s efforts to grow our membership, provide more opportunities for networking and training, and promote the wastewater industry throughout West Virginia.

Penn Yan, NY Wastewater Treatment Plant

Moves from Manual Monitoring to a Modern Centralized Data Platform

L“Protecting these waterways is a top priority.”

ocated on the north end of Keuka Lake in the state of New York, is the Village of Penn Yan which is home to approximately 5,000 people. The Keuka Lake Outlet carries water from the lake’s outlet through the Village along with flow from two small creeks to Seneca Lake, the largest lake in the Finger Lakes chain. These waterways and the power they generated were a principal reason for the establishment of the Village on this site in 1799. Today, residents and summer vacationers enjoy many recreational activities along the lakes and outlet. Protecting these waterways is a top priority for the Penn Yan Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations team, and the Chief Operator, Yvonne Tucker.

The Village wastewater treatment plant was built in 1983 with a design flow capacity of 1.8 MGD. For the most part, the plant runs well, however during heavy rain events, flows can increase from the average 1.2 MGD daily flow to 5.6 MGD in less than 30 minutes causing inflow/infiltration issues. The secondary treatment process is comprised of 16 rotating biological contactors (RBC), 2-stage anaerobic digestion, mechanical screw press dewatering and biosolids compost production. Nitrification takes place on the last 10 RBCs, and polyaluminum chloride is utilized for total phosphate reduction to less than 1 mg/L. While industry accounts for about 10% of the plant’s flow, periodic dumping can cause overloading that upsets conditions resulting in the need for an increase in phosphorus removal.

“We were chasing data all over the place in multiple spreadsheets which made it very hard to troubleshoot issues and difficult to see long-term trends.”

Monitoring the treatment of Penn Yan’s wastewater from influent to effluent involves the collection of a lot of data as pollutants are removed and water quality is restored. Operators receive some data such as pH, dissolved oxygen, suspended solids, temperature, etc. from instruments, and also receive water quality results from samples sent to laboratories. In addition, plant operators used paper bench sheets that were later entered into an Excel spreadsheet for

performance tracking. Prior to continual monitoring, all the lab results, instrument readings, and bench sheets were manually entered into different spreadsheets for different tracking purposes. The problem with entering data manually is that it is very time-consuming and is prone to human error.

Having data stored in different spreadsheets for different reasons is not optimal when it comes to understanding the dynamic performance of a system as a whole.

Moving to an automated centralized data platform

Penn Yan moved from paper to digital in 2022 with Rio, a software program by Aquatic Informatics that helps manage treatment plant operations by collecting and organizing data into actionable insights. The new software can integrate with electronic lab transfers, pull data from instruments, and allow personnel to capture field data on-site with a connected mobile device. Alerts can be set to notify operators with in-app notifications and email if a parameter setpoint has been exceeded. Having all this data securely stored in the cloud improves operational visibility. Preceding and following weekends and holidays, operators will let their co-workers know if something is amiss or a little unusual, but sometimes circumstances don’t allow for the conversation to happen. Having information from the previous shift at the fingertips of the new crew ensures they can have a quick glance at the previous eight hours.

“Having all this information live in one platform gives operators a much better understanding of performance and if any changes need to be made to the system to keep wastewater flowing through the treatment process efficiently.”

Troubleshooting with data

Like most wastewater treatment plants, Penn Yan has redundancy at their pump stations. Equalling out pump run-times is important to ensure maintenance is performed when it should. If there is a deviation in pump run times, it can indicate a problem.

“We recently installed a new pump station and began to notice that one of the pumps was accumulating more hours than the other. On investigation, our team determined that

the T-joint on the pipe had come apart so that when that pump was on, water was coming back into the wet well so it had to pump longer than the other one. By monitoring and trending pump hours in Rio, we were able to identify there was a problem.”

Having all this information live in one platform gives operators a much better understanding of performance and if any changes need to be made to the system to keep wastewater flowing through the treatment process efficiently.

For example, if the load cells for the rotating biological contactors (RBCs) on one train indicates a trending increase in weight, and the other train load cells do not show an increase, this type of onesided increase would indicate an uneven fl ow or loading condition. This would require an adjustment to the splitter box ahead of the RBC process to even out, or balance the distribution between the two trains. If left uneven, this could result in reduced treatment effi ciency, or possibly increased stress on the mechanical equipment due to an overweight condition which could result in catastrophic failure. A leading indicator of a healthy digestor is the ratio of volatile acids to alkalinity (VFA/TA). The Penn Yan treatment plant operates around 0.12. The anaerobic digestion process can be fi nicky, if the pH has changed, then it’s too late, and the bacteria have stopped functioning. This can result in a sour digestor, and possibly foaming issues. “Using Rio we can watch this ratio trend closely and adjust how much we are feeding the digestor or add alkalinity to buff er the acid if needed,” said Tucker. Ensuring equipment is operating within its capacity and that operational

“We can create the graphs we need, on-demand, 10 times faster now – it’s a huge time-saving feature.”

processes are running effi ciently impacts both short-term costs (maintenance and repair) and long-term capital budgets.

Garnering insights with visual analysis

Being a relatively small treatment plant, Penn Yan monitors around 100 parameters from regulatory infl uent/effl uent parameters to process control data. The new platform allows Tucker to select and analyze any number of these parameters, over any period. Prior to using Rio, she had to pull data from multiple spreadsheets to compile reports, which was timeconsuming. Now with a few clicks, she can create graphs and dashboards to visualize trends or identify relationships between any number of parameters.

As summer approaches, Penn Yan population swells resulting in an increase

in organic loading, often resulting in an alert that clarifi er sludge blanket heights are too high. Operators can now look at historical data to see when this usually happens and what they did to accommodate the change. “We can now be more predictive – we can avoid some problems and investigate others quickly and easily, so we can improve our response time to fi x them in the future.”

Reporting, Compliance & Transparency

Tucker uses Rio to produce the monthly NetDMR discharge reports and other quarterly reports for stakeholders. As most data is automatically fed into the system, compliance reporting takes a lot less time, and without additional, repetitive data entry, there is less chance for human error. Having all the derived data in one place adds a layer of defensibility to reporting,

Reporting, Compliance & Transparency

Tucker uses Rio to produce the monthly NetDMR discharge reports and other quarterly reports for stakeholders. As most data is automatically fed into the system, compliance reporting takes a lot less time, and without additional, repetitive data entry, there is less chance for human error. Having all the derived data in one place adds a layer of defensibility to reporting, but it is also helpful when a permit exceedance occurs.

but it is also helpful when a permit exceedance occurs.

When a permit violation occurs, the Village needs to follow protocols which starts with notifying the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Tucker explained, “The next step is to understand why we had a violation, so we go through the plant looking for problems. We check the operation of chemical metering pumps, make sure we are adding enough chemicals to help with settling, compare the industry flow to see if their contribution is causing a negative impact, look at what is in the influent, and check to ensure that the flow did not exceed the design parameters of the tank, and so on. Having all this data in one place, allows us to easily and visually see the whole process. We can overlap data to compare time periods and determine what happened so we can get back in compliance.

When a permit violation occurs, the Village needs to follow protocols which starts with notifying the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Tucker explained, “The next step is to understand why we had a violation, so we go through the plant looking for problems. We check the operation of chemical metering pumps, make sure we are adding enough chemicals to help with settling, compare the industry flow to see if their contribution is causing a negative impact, look at what is in the influent, and check to ensure that the flow did not exceed the design parameters of the tank, and so on. Having all this data in one place, allows us to easily and visually see the whole process. We can overlap data to compare time periods and determine what happened so we can get back in compliance.

Prior to the new software, if a stakeholder asked to see the last year of fl ow data, it would involve pulling data

“It’s vital for small teams like us to use every tool we can to streamline operations and work processes, as our roles and responsibilities often encompass a more diverse spectrum than our colleagues in larger utilities.”

Prior to the new software, if a stakeholder asked to see the last year of flow data, it would involve pulling data from 12 different spreadsheets and copying and pasting it into one. This was time-consuming work that may, or may not, garner any valuable insight. Today, Tucker can select and organize the data she needs for just about any request, providing a new level of transparency for stakeholders and the ability to provide reports that visually showcase pertinent results.

Capturing history for future hires

from 12 diff erent spreadsheets and copying and pasting it into one. This was timeconsuming work that may, or may not, garner any valuable insight. Today, Tucker can select and organize the data she needs for just about any request, providing a new level of transparency for stakeholders and the ability to provide reports that visually showcase pertinent results.

Small communities with small budgets are held to the same standards and regulations as larger water utilities. “It’s vital for small teams like us to use every tool we can to streamline operations and work processes, as our roles and responsibilities often encompass a more diverse spectrum than our colleagues in larger utilities,” said Tucker. As new hires join the team, they need to quickly get up to speed on plant operations. Having all its wastewater treatment information stored in one place will really help with this. As things change over time, operators will have a reliable historical baseline to help with decision-making.

Capturing history for future hires

Small communities with small budgets are held to the same standards and regulations as

larger water utilities. “It’s vital for small teams like us to use every tool we can to streamline operations and work processes, as our roles and responsibilities often encompass a more diverse spectrum than our colleagues in larger utilities,” said Tucker. As new hires join the team, they need to quickly get up to speed on plant operations. Having all its wastewater treatment information stored in one place will really help with this. As things change over time, operators will have a reliable historical baseline to help with decision-making.

West Virginia Environmental Training Center Turns

By Rich Weigand

It was the summer of 1984 when the West Virginia Environmental Training Center (ETC) opened its doors. Funded by the US EPA under a section of The Clean Water Act, it was one of over 40 original “109B” official state training centers funded across the United States. West Virginia was unique in that the funding went to the state Department of Education since that agency was already in the business of adult education.

The Department of Education already owned real estate at the Cedar Lakes Conference Center, so the building was constructed there using the $500,000 grant from US EPA. The first class was a Class I-S course led by John Brown who was the wastewater Certification Officer at the West Virginia State Department of Health. Instructors for the course were Rich Weigand and Gary Epling from the Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department and Paul Sawyers from Extended Aeration Company. The building was officially dedicated in October 1985.

Not long after, Richard Weigand was hired as the director and a full calendar of certification courses and CEH workshops began to take shape. The Department of Health agreed to fund the operation of the ETC for 10 years, but by then the program had grown so much that

funding continued though only partially covering rising costs. Despite the many instructors who volunteered their time, registration fees eventually became a necessity.

There have been many notable milestones during the past 40 years. Nationally known instructors came to teach: John Esler, Dr. David Jenkins, Ron Schuyler, Paul Krauth, Bill Mixer, Steve Leach, and Jess Jones.

The ETC was also instrumental in recreating the Wastewater Exam Review Committee which writes and revises all wastewater certification exams. A Class IV Wastewater Course was developed as well as a certification course for Home Aeration Unit operators. A significant achievement was the development of a backflow device tester certification course (and regulations) in cooperation with the Operator Training Committee of Ohio the training center in Ohio.

Since opening its doors in 1984 the ETC has trained over 60,000 operators from across the state. The motto “Home of Rubber Glove Training” holds true with lots of hands-on activities part of every program. The West Virginia Water Environment Association has been a strong training partner ever since the first class 40 years ago.

Front Row, Left to Right: John Brown (WV Dept. of Health Wastewater Certification Officer), Rich Weigand (Mid-Ohio Valley Health Dept.), Gary Epling (Mid-Ohio Valley Health Dept.), Paul Sawyers (Extended Aeration Co.).

Expo 2024

ON BEHALF OF ZACH THOMPSON AND CHARLIE MCKENZIE

We would like to thank all the attendees at the 2024 Expo WEA Training seminars. Also, we would like to thank and recognize those who provided the training and those working behind the scenes to make this happen. Thank you! The presenters did an excellent job communicating the training material to the attendees and answering their questions. All the classes were well planned out, very informative, and hopefully helpful to those who attended. WV WEA once again provided well over 200 CEU credits at Expo alone.

2024 EXPO CLASSES WERE:

• Be a Burnout Buster (Leveraging Technical Growth and Mentorship into Career Fulfillment in the Water Industry)

Presented by: Jenelle H. Armstrong, PE, PMP

• Employee Training for Wastewater

Presented by: Ken Baylous and Paul McDanald

• Artificial Intelligence Real Solutions. Leveraging AI and GIS For Sewer Condition Assessment

Presented by: Joshua Ford, PE

• Nereda Technology for Wastewater Systems

Presented by: Paula Dorn

We are now planning and looking forward to Expo 2025 classes and open to suggestions for training topics that will benefit those in the industry. You can email suggestions to: zthompson@thethrashergroup.com charliemckenzie@servicepump.com

This year’s Annual Joint Water Conference will be held at Glade Springs Resort 2400 Ritter Drive Daniels, WV 25832

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.

H.D.P.E. Man -Hole Inserts

SPECIFICATIONS :

• The insert is made of High Molecular Weight Polyethylene material that meets ASTM specifications designation D 1248, Class A, Category 5, Type 111 with a minimum impact brittleness temperature of -180°F. The thickness shall be uniform to .187 or greater.

• The lift strap is made of 1-inch -wide woven polypropylene web and is attached to the bowl of the dish by a wide head stainless steel 3/16” rivet and a stainless steel ¾” backup SS washer. All cut edges are seared to ensure against raveling.

• Ventilation is provided by a 1/8” vent hole and/or a valve (see valve information under the SS specifications ), vent hole located on the side wall of the bowl, valve threaded into the side -bottom of the insert. The hole or valve allows maximum release of 5 gallons of water per 24 hours and is not affected by debris that migh t collect in the bottom of the dish. Sewer gas is vented at one P.S.I. or less.

• The gasket is made of closed cell neoprene and is attached by a pressure sensitive adhesive to the weight bearing surface of the dish.

Stainless Steel Man -Hole Inserts

SPECIFICATIONS :

INSERT- The manhole insert is manufactured of 16 gauge , 304T Stainless Steel. The insert shall have a bowl size large enough to receive the design of the underside of the manhole lid. The bowl size shall also be designed to allow easy removal from the manhole frame. The insert shall have a load test greater than 3000 pounds.

GASKET- The gasket is made of closed cell neoprene and is attached by a pressure sensitive adhesive to the weight bearing surface of the dish.

HANDLE- The handle, cable terminal, and cable eye end are manufactured from stainless steel. The handle is manufactured from 3/16” plastic-coated stainless-steel cable and is attached with a #66 stainless steel rivet and a 1” diameter SS washer. The cable is braided in a manne r which resists cutting with bolt cutters.

TETHER- Th e tether is manufactured from 3/16” braided stainless steel and is attached to the insert using #66 stainless steel rivet. The cable terminal end and eye are manufactured from stainless steel.

RELIEF VALVE - The gas relief valve is designed to, release at a pressure of .5 to 1.5 PSI and release less than 5 gallons of water in 24 hours. The valve is threaded and screwed into a hole drilled in the bottom of the insert. The valve is made from material that is inert against Sulfuric Acid, Hydrogen Sulfide and other substances found in the sanitary sewer systems.

H.D.P.E. or A.B.S. Valve Box Inserts

SPECIFICATIONS :

• The valve box insert is made of High Molecular Weight Polyethylene material that meets ASTM specifications designation D 1248, Class A, Category 5, Type 111 with a minimum impact brittleness temperature of -180°F. The thickness shall be uniform to .187 or greater.

• The lift strap is made of 1-inch -wide woven polypropylene web and is attached to the bowl of the dish by a wide head stainless steel 3/16” rivet and a stainless steel ¾” backup SS washer. All cut edges are seared to ensure against raveling.