Issuu

T exas W ater U tilities

JOURNAL VOLUME 31

APRIL 2021

"Proudly Serving Education Excellence since 1918"

NUMBER 4

Texas Water Utilities Association Regional Training – 2021

Permian (San Angelo)

July 19th – 22nd

Norma Clark – 432-528-1608

Central West Texas (Abilene)

August 2nd – 5th.

Mickey Chaney – 325-548-2237

Far West Texas (Ft. Stockton) September 13th – 16th.

Norma Clark – 432-528-1608

Annual School (Corpus)

September 26th – 29th.

Central Office 512-459-3124

Central Texas (Killeen)

October 18th – 21st.

Norma Clark – 432-528-1608

Southeast Texas (Beaumont)

October 25th – 28th.

Bobby Rogers – 409-385-7355

Pat Gray – 713-637-8835 Ext. 305

West Texas (Lubbock)

Bill Boyd – 806-775-3415

November 1st – 4th.

In This Edition: TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL ( ISSN – 1051709X) is published monthly by the Texas Water Utilities Association, located at 210 E. Hwy 79, Hutto, Texas 78634 for Operators, Engineers, Managers, Laboratory technicians, Customer service personnel, Vendors, and other Professionals employed in, or interested in, the water and or wastewater industry.

President Message................................ 4

ED News ............................................. 6 If you want to get a complete look at lake levels, go to www.waterdatafortexas.org

Ten dollars of each annual membership dues payment to the Texas Water Utilities Association pays for a subscription. Nonmember subscriptions price: the USA $100.00 per year; $10.00 per single copy $125.00 per year outside the USA. Periodicals Postage Paid In Hutto, Tx. And Additional Mailing Offices. The Texas Water Utilities Association is wholly independent, and is not affiliated with the American Water Works Association, the Water Environment Federation, or any other National Organization. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Texas Water Utilities Association – Journal 210 E. Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Texas 78634. The Texas Water Utilities Association Journal is not responsible for facts and or opinions expressed by contributors or in advertisements herein. Editorials and comments do not necessarily represent the official policy of the Texas Water Utilities Association.

Safety News ....................................... 12 No one should have to be injured or killed for a paycheck. If you think your job is unsafe and you have questions, call OSHA.

ADVERTISERS: American Flow Control........................................................................ 21 Ana-Lab............................................................................................. 19 EGSW................................................................................................ 29 Garrison Minerals............................................................................... 19 Giant Maintenance & Restoration Inc..................................................... 7 Global Treat....................................................................................... 21 Hartwell Environmental Corporation..................................................... 11

All inquiries should be directed to: Texas Water Utilities Association, 210 E. Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Texas 78634. Phone 512-459-3124. Any materials accepted for publication is subject to revision and editing At the discretion of the publisher.

Homa Pump....................................................................................... 22

MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

Pape-Dawson Engineers..................................................................... 11

John Krause – Chair of Management William L. (Bill) Brown – President Mike Norris – President Elect Jim Siddall – Vice President George A. Glispin – Second Past President Jim McCain – Ex Officio Russell Hamilton – Executive Director

_______________________________ Front Cover Photo Courtesy of: Denton, Texas April 2021

Jim Cox Sales, Inc.............................................................................. 24 LSPS Solutions................................................................................... 13 OEI................................................................................................... 11 Osha................................................................................................. 30 Pump Solutions, Inc........................................................................... 23 Samco Leak Detection........................................................................ 19 USA Bluebook............................................................. Inside Front Cover Smith Pump Company, Inc............................................ Inside Back Cover Magna Flow...........................................................................Back Cover

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: TWUA Training Schedule......................................................... 16 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 3

President’s Message

President’s Thoughts by William “Bill” Brown

I feel like I am in a doomsday movie, and just when you think it could not get worse, someone pokes me and says, hold my beer and hang on. I am quickly becoming committed to the thought process that 2021 will keep us on our toes. We have an ever-changing political environment. We have hopes of returning to some sense of normalcy. And we have mother nature off her meds and bringing the artic to all of Texas. We experienced days of power outages, and pipes froze solid. Do not get me started on Global Warming. Some were dealing with Boil Water notices. We have recovery from the arctic blast happening as we speak. Oh yea, and it’s only April. I cannot wait to deal with thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes. The Management Committee recently met to discuss Public Meetings and the Governor’s recent policy changes related to open up Texas and face masks. It appears that May 1st will be the target date for TWUA resuming “In-person” meetings under the TWUA Training Umbrella. Will there be meeting stipulations and requirements? Yes, things like screenings, compliance with host location rules, and a form signed by all attendees that says the attendee knows and understands the risks associated with Covid, and there is no mandate, order, or requirement for participation in “live” TWUA Training Events. With this article, I am pleading with those who will return to live “in-person” events. Please use common sense and comply with established precautionary practices. Wash your hands. And stay away if you have been in contact with someone who was positive with Covid or you’re just not feeling well. I would hate to see the TWUA Board reverse the policy, thereby stopping in-person activities because someone doesn’t feel the rule(s) apply to him or her. This “in-person” public gathering issue is not cast in stone and depends on the association’s attorney and his legal advice. Hopefully, this will be the beginning of returning to the old normal. I want to change topics and take this opportunity to recognize and thank all the Operators and all the Utility Workers who labored tirelessly through the freeze. What an ordeal that was. I never intentionally take away from the emergency responders and those who come to mind when someone mentions “Essential Personnel.” But just one time, I would love to see the staff members who are responsible for the water and wastewater recognized without someone pointing out this area of critical infrastructure providers. I wish I could do more, but please accept this sincere expression of appreciation on behalf of TWUA and myself; I am blessed to be associated with such an outstanding group of men and women. Thank you for a job well done! Excellence is the gradual result of always striving to do better – Pat Riley. May the Blessings of Heaven Rest upon you and all Water and Wastewater Professionals! Bill Brown

4 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

April 2021

Announcement

TWUA 103rd ANNUAL SCHOOL & CORPUS CHRISTI TEXAS

D AT E CHANGE FOR 202 1 Due to the lingering effects of the Coronavirus, TWUA Management made the decision to pursue a meeting date later into 2021. The schedule and school events will remain the same, just happening a little later in the year. Mark your calendar – September 26th – 29th 2021 is the new dates for the 103rd Annual School. The registration link for both the school and the hotel will activated as soon as possible. You may take advantage of early discounts and reserve you room now.

Thank you for considering TWUA and choosing the Omni, which helps keep pricing competitive. April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 5

Central Office News by Russell Hamilton, TWUA Executive Director

ather, in this time, we take comfort in knowing that You remain in charge and control of life as we understand it. We need You, and we welcome You in all we do. We come into Your presence, seeking Your grace, Your mercy, Your calm, Your guidance, and forgiveness. Father, we pray for Your favor and ask that You direct, protect, watch over, guide, and bless TWUA and its members. Amen In West Texas, Lake Spence is sitting at 22.2 % (- 0.0 %). White River is sitting at 12.0 % (+ 0.8 %). Panhandle - Lake Meredith is sitting at 35.7 % (+0.2 %) and Greenbelt is at 17.1 % (- 0.7 %). If you want to get a complete look at current lake levels, go to waterdatafortexas.org. The drought has never left for some and is returning for others. Perhaps the biggest news since last month’s article is related to the Governor’s open-up Texas and no masks mandate. First of all, I am trying to keep this as non-political as possible. If wearing a mask provides you comfort and peace of mind – please continue to wear one. If avoiding gathering in a “public” setting gives you comfort – totally understandable. If anyone chooses not to wear a mask, please do not feel like you have to confront the issue. A group of TWUA Members has expressed a desire to resume monthly District Meetings and In-Person Regional Training events. The TWUA Management Committee met on March 15th to discuss the topic, and the short answer is the board feels that by May 1st, meetings under the TWUA Training Umbrella can resume WITH MEETING REQUIREMENTS. A list of in-person meeting stipulations has been forwarded to the association’s attorney for comment and input. There will be screening requirements, and all attendees will sign an acknowledgment. The acknowledgment is primarily for the attendee to confirm he or she understands Covid is serious and has health implications. And there is NO mandate or requirement for in-person participation at any TWUA function. Not complying with in-person meeting requirements and stipulation could result in the management committee taking action to once again suspend live events. Regardless of your political views, please observe and comply all live meeting rules. Mark your calendar – July 19th – 22nd, the Permian Regional 6 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

School will be held in San Angelo, will be the first Live, In-person, Regional Training Event for TWUA in 2021. Abilene will be August 2nd – 5th. Fort Stockton will be September 13th – 16th. Annual School will be in Corpus Christi from the 26th – 29th of September. Killeen will be October 18th – 21st. Beaumont will be October 25th – 28th. Lubbock will be November 1st – 4th. Tyler, San Marcos, and Arlington are looking at alternative dates, host locations, and other options. It’s going to be a busy second half of the year. Dates for Annual School 2021 - The Annual School dates for 2021 are September 26th – 29th, 2021. I recently visited with the Corpus CVB and Omni hotel, and all indications are – Annual School will be a Live, In-Person event. Early Registrations are encouraged just in case occupancy rates in the convention center classrooms become an issue. Should that happen, attendees will be accommodated by the registration date. Click on this link to find a computer-based testing location. https://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/exams/cbt_occ_lic.html Call the TCEQ staff in licensing for more information or the official statement related to the Exams, Licensing, and Computer-Based Testing. 512-239-6133 The Story Goes Something Like This – It was getting late in the fall. The leaves were beginning to turn, and you could feel a noticeable difference or chill with the wind. As I was walking toward a wooded trail about a mile from my house, I heard what I thought was a faint cry coming from up the trail where there is heavy tree growth. I paused to listen. I almost certain it was a female voice, and my first thought was some poor woman has been injured or having a heated argument, or worse, being attacked. I quickened my pace as I was now convinced the sounds were coming from a woman fighting an attacker. I stopped walking, and for several moments I was frozen with the thought, I had no weapons. Should I get involved, or should I return to my home and call for help? I’ll admit I was frightened, and a thousand excuses were racing through my mind. I had just about talked myself into retreating to call the police when the softer whimpers began. I told myself, I am not a coward, and I should grab a tree limb and confront the situation. April 2021

I began to feel my courage rise as I moved quickly toward the noises. As I approached, I could hear the terrifying sounds and pleads coming from the woman. I mustered up all the strength and courage I could and began wailing on the attackers with my branch. Bufford Pusser would have been proud. I had successfully beat the attackers away from the girl. But one of the masked assailants decided he would fight, and I was obliging him with my branch. The second attacker was running away as fast as he could. My opponent was quickly learning that a properly motivated man with a two-inch limb about five feet long can inflict some damage. A final blow to the side of the right knee sent the attacker to the ground. Surprisingly enough, he was able to get up and limp away.

police report. I will take you to the hospital. I am not leaving you, and as long as I have breath in my lungs, they will not bother you. You tell me when you feel safe enough that I can come closer and comfort you.

I did not realize how out of shape I was, but as soon as I could catch my breath, I began to talk to the girl. Her clothes had been ripped almost off, and she was cowering behind a tree. She was so frightened that I maintained my distance and kept talking with her but could not see her face.

“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage” – Anais Nin

I took off my jacket and hung it on a branch, and retreated a few yards. I could hear the branches rustling. A few minutes passed, then I heard her words, and with great amazement in her voice. Dad, is that you? I was praying that you would help me. It was only then; I realized the girl pleading for help from under the muffled hand of an attacker was my daughter. She ran to my arms.

Stay Safe and Remember – we do not need all the operators in Texas to be a member of TWUA – JUST YOU ! ! ! !

You’re safe now; the last time I saw your attackers, they were nursing wounds and headed downhill. I will help you make a

FIRE HYDRANT PAINTING SERVICE • BLASTING •

IANT BLASTED

For more information contact:

Mark Giarrante

Phone 847-388-3711 E-mail mark@giant2u.com April 2021

• PRIME COAT • FINISH COAT •

FINISH COAT

GIANT...

Providing Superior Service for Municipalities Since 1989 WWW.GIANT2U.COM Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 7

TWUA DISTRICT MEETINGS Due to Coronavirus and Uncertainties related to Public Meeting / Gatherings ALL TWUA Public Gatherings have been Temporally Postponed OnDemand Virtual 2-hour Electronic Training Sessions are now available 24 / 7. Get this training as your schedule permits Active District Members will be eligible for ONE of these Training Opportunities Can only attend one 2-hour session per month (same session just repeated) Everyone MUST have computer / IP address Everyone MUST have access to telephone Everyone MUST make a Voice Print (prior to the event) iPad & Tablets are NOW SUPPORTED This electronic training will be offered free of charge to active district members until the CDC approves In Person Meetings there will be other options for others to participate in electronic training See TWUA Website – Training Tab – Click on event for more information Call TWUA Central Office for more information

8 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

April 2021

DO YOU QUALIFY FOR SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE FROM THE V.M. EHLERS SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION? To be eligible for assistance, you must be an active individual dues paid member of TWUA or an active dues paid member of a Sponsoring Organization that has a fully vested Endowment within the Foundation or be the dependent child of an active individual dues paid member (a child still being supported by their parent(s) and are claimed on the parent(s) income tax return). An Application can be found on the TWUA website (www.twua.org) under the Forms tab. Please complete the Application in its entirety and provide a high school transcript, GED, or university grade report which documents your current academic status. TO BE CONSIDERED, THE APPLICATION MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN JULY 1, 2021. Mail the application and all supporting documents to V.M. Ehlers Foundation, C/O TWUA, 210 Highway 79, Suite 101, Hutto, TX, 78634-4534. If you need additional information, please contact Jim Siddall (1jsiddall1@att.net - 469-371-8487 or Norma Clark (n.clark@twua.org – 432-528-1608).

IF NOT, WHY? Do you know that TWUA members: • Receive a discount (from 10% to 35%) on TWUA training • Receive a subscription to the monthly TWUA Journal • Receive free updates on regulatory and technology changes • Have easy access to industry matter experts, vendors, and product providers • Have the opportunity to apply for scholarship assistance for yourself or your legal tax dependent children

MEMBERSHIP PLANS BEGINNING AT $60/YEAR!! CONTACT TWUA AT (888) 367-8982 TO SIGN UP. April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 9

Safety News

No one should have to be injured or killed for a paycheck. If you think your job is unsafe and you have questions, call OSHA.

Know Your Rights Federal law entitles you to a safe workplace. Your employer must keep your workplace free of known health and safety hazards. You have the right to speak up about hazards without fear of retaliation. You also have the right to:  Receive workplace safety and health training in a language you understand  Work on machines that are safe  Receive required safety equipment, such as gloves or a harness and lifeline for falls  Be protected from toxic chemicals  Request an OSHA inspection, and speak to the inspector  Report an injury or illness, and get copies of your medical records  Review records of work-related injuries and illnesses  See results of tests taken to find workplace hazards When to File a Complaint • Safety and Health Complaint If you believe working conditions are unsafe or unhealthful, you may file a confidential 10 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

complaint with OSHA and ask for an inspection. If possible, tell your employer about your concerns. • Protection from Retaliation It is illegal for an employer to fire, demote, transfer or otherwise retaliate against a worker who complains to OSHA and uses their legal rights. If you believe you have been retaliated against in any way, file a whistleblower complaint within 30 days of the alleged retaliation. What should I do if there is a dangerous situation at work? If you believe working conditions are unsafe or unhealthful, you may file a complaint with OSHA concerning a hazardous working condition at any time. If possible, bring the conditions to your employer›s attention. If the condition clearly presents a risk of death or serious physical harm, there is not sufficient time for OSHA to inspect, and, where possible, a worker has brought the condition to the attention of the employer, the worker may have a legal right to refuse to work in a situation in which he or she would be exposed to the hazard. If you have questions about what to do, contact your local OSHA office. We will keep your information confidential. We are here to help you. Call – 800-321-6742 if you have questions or to report unsafe conditions. What if I am injured at work? If you are injured, call a supervisor for help. If the supervisor is not available, get medical assistance or call 911. April 2021

Safety News All employers must notify OSHA within 8 hours of a workplace fatality or within 24 hours of any work-related inpatient hospitalization, amputation or loss of an eye. [Employers under federal OSHA’s jurisdiction were required to begin reporting by Jan. 1, 2015. Establishments in a state with a state-run OSHA program may have a different implementation date]. Does my employer have to provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and who pays for it? Many OSHA standards require employers to provide personal protective equipment, when it is necessary to protect employees from job-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. With few exceptions, OSHA requires employers to pay for personal protective equipment when it is used to comply with OSHA standards. These typically include: hard hats, gloves, goggles, safety glasses, welding helmets and goggles, face shields, chemical protective equipment and fall protection equipment. For additional information on PPE, refer to OSHA’s Personal Protective Equipment Web page.

Are employers required to provide drinking water? OSHA Standards require an employer to provide potable water in the workplace and permit employees to drink it. Potable water includes tap water that is safe for drinking. Employers cannot require employees to pay for water that is provided. An employer does not have to provide bottled water if potable water is available. See OSHA’s sanitation standard for more information. Can an employer restrict restroom use? OSHA’s Sanitation standard requires that employers make toilet facilities available so that employees can use them when they need to. The employer may not impose unreasonable restrictions on employee use of the facilities.

WATER DISTRIBUTION & WASTEWATER COLLECTION | WATER SUPPLY INFRASTRUCTURE DESIGN WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE DESIGN | WASTEWATER TREATMENT DESIGN Texas Engineering Firm #470

April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 11

Field News

TRUST IS KEY TO MORE THAN YOUR PROFESSIONAL REPUTATION GOVLOOP, BY REBECCA MACK JOHNSON

There is a saying that trust takes forever to build and a moment to break. Early in my career, I had a situation where I lost the trust of a supervisor. It did not matter that it was due to a misunderstanding. I explained myself and apologized for the misunderstanding, but it was evident that damage had been done. This would not be a quick fix. I knew that I would need to work to restore this supervisor’s confidence in me, and it would take time. Individually, no matter where you are in your life journey and career, at a fundamental level, your professional reputation may hinge on trust. Organizationally, in a world where many people have a multitude of options for where they work, what they buy and what they invest in, if there is a lack of trust, the reputation may become damaged and people may go elsewhere. So, what can you do to cultivate or restore trust? Be respectful To lay the foundation for trust, you need to be respectful of others. You may not agree with everyone’s opinions, and others may not agree with yours. That is perfectly natural, and it is what you want to have in an organization that embodies and encourages diversity. You need to be polite and professional, and let others be heard. We each have responsibility for whatever it is we do and everyone has their personal view. Be appreciative of that, and people will see that you respect their opinions. If a decision is made that people disagree with, they will be able to express their opinion and feel supported even if the outcome does not change. Say what you mean; mean what you say Be intentional in your communications. Remember your purpose and what you set out to achieve. Even if the focus of a task may be to complete a process or resolve an issue, building trust should always be part of your objectives. For me, this means that you are straightforward with people (respectfully) and let them know what matters to you. When you thank someone, be sincere in expressing your appreciation and show them that you mean it.

be reliable and (no surprise) trustworthy. Don’t just say it; do it. Honor your commitments and follow through. Others will take notice that you do what you say and will develop trust in your actions and see you as one they can count on. Own your errors and mistakes You are human; humans make mistakes. It is important to understand your mistakes, acknowledge them, and not repeat them. If you can do this reliably, then others’ trust in you should grow over time. There can be violations of trust when that level of ownership is not demonstrated. This can also have other negative impacts to reputation and performance. Be there for others To gain trust, you need to invest your time and attention into others. This means you need to be present and engaged. When things aren’t “rosy,” listen and find out what can be done to help. People will be more inclined to confide in you and share their opinions when you put yourself out there and make yourself available. Understand that you need to do your part to grow the relationship. Not everyone will be comfortable in opening up, and that should improve as the level of trust is developed. I am of the mindset that if you know or sense that trust has eroded, you take action to repair the relationship. It is a twoway street, and it is not necessarily a matter of who’s right and who’s wrong. There needs to be some willingness to take action and allow for trust to rebuild. In my case, I had a conversation about the situation with the supervisor. It was not easy or pleasant, but it was necessary. It required listening without judging or getting defensive. Having a candid conversation led to more interactions where I showed respect, followed through, and delivered solid work products. I think that made the difference. Some of the greatest growth comes from lessons learned the hard way. However, I would not recommend learning this lesson the hard way. Do all you can to keep levels of trust high, and that will help you in all aspects of life.

Do what you say you’ll do Actions speak louder than words. To build trust, you need to 12 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 13

14 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

April 2021

Water Systems | Wastewater | Water Storage Tanks | Water Supply | Environmental,

and more.

We are a water resources firm focused on quality services and solutions. Lubbock | Houston | San Antonio | Austin

Oller Engineering, Inc.

HARTWELL ENVIRONMENTAL CORPORATION

Rich Oller, PE | 806.993.6227 rich.oller@oei-eng.com www.oei-eng.com

THE LATEST IN TECHNOLGY FOR THE TREATMENT OF WATER & WASTEWATER

In Texas and Oklahoma we not only offer the latest in technology and process equipment for water and wastewater but we also specialize in Aftermarket Sales and Service, including turnkey installation for products in all phases of processes.

For more information visit our website at: www.hartwellenv.com HOUSTON 281.351.8501 ● AUSTIN 512.347.7676 ● DALLAS 817.446.9500 ● TULSA 918.299.8555

April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 15

TEXAS WATER UTILITIES To register for any TWUA Training Classes – the preferred method of registration is using the online computer based electronic process, activated by clicking on specific event(s). For those who do not have internet as an option you may complete the registration form and fax to (512) 459-7124 and additionally you may contact TWUA Central Office @ 888-367-8982. Please Note – Due to recent increases for training materials, class costs have changed. Early Bird preregistration is defined to mean 30-days prior to any training event. All registrations received after the Early Bird period must pay additional registration fee. Central Office strongly encourages everyone to take advantage of the Early Bird pricing and utilize the computer based (electronic) registration.

TWUA LIVE, INSTRUCTOR LED - COMPUTER BASED TRAINING

April 6 - 8

Surface 1

Live Online

24 - Hours

Water Distribution

Live Online

20 - Hours

Safety

Live Online

20 - Hours

April 13 - 15

Surface 2

Live Online

20 - Hours

Disinfection

Live Online

20 - Hours

Ground Water

Live Online

20 - Hours

Management

Live Online

20 - Hours

April 20 -22

Basic Wastewater

Live Online

20 - Hours

WW Treatment

Live Online

20 - Hours

WW Collections

Live Online

20 - Hours

April 27-29

CSI / CCC

Live Online

20 - Hours

Activated Sludge

Live Online

20 - Hours

May 4 -6

Basic Water

Live Online

20 - Hours

Safety

Live Online

20 - Hours

Pumps & Motors

Live Online

20 - Hours

Basic Wastewater

Live Online

20 - Hours

Management

Live Online

20 - Hours

16 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

April 2021

TRAINING SCHEDULE 20-Hour Classes: (Early Bird Pre-registration) $325 member $425 Non-member Onsite $375 member $475 Non-member 24-Hour Classes: (Early Bird Pre-registration) $385 member $485 Non-member Onsite $435 member $535 Non-member You may register on line by following the training tab drop downs or HTTP://TWUA.ORG/TRAINING.PHP COMPUTER BASED TRAINING MAY VARY.

TWUA LIVE, INSTRUCTOR LED - COMPUTER BASED TRAINING

May 11 - 13

Water Distribution

Live Online

20 - Hours

WW Collections

Live Online

20 - Hours

WW Treatment

Live Online

20 - Hours

CSI / CCC

Live Online

20 - Hours

May 18 - 20

Surface 1

Live Online

24 - Hours

Groundwater

Live Online

20 - Hours

Disinfection / Chlorination

Live Online

20 - Hours

Activated Sludge

Live Online

20 - Hours

May 25 - 27

Calculations

Live Online

20 - Hours

W W Lab Live

Live Online

20 - Hours

Surface 2

Live Online

20 - Hours

Management

Live Online

20 - Hours

June 1 - 3

CSI / CCC

Live Online

20 - Hours

Pumps & Pumping

Live Online

20 - Hours

Safety

Live Online

20 - Hours

Basic Water

Live Online

20 - Hours

April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 17

Training Schedule (continued from page 17)

June 8 - 10

Water Distribution

Live Online

20 - Hours

Disinfection / Chlorination

Live Online

20 - Hours

Basic Wastewater

Live Online

20 - Hours

Management

Live Online

20 - Hours

June 15 - 17

W. W. Treatment

Live Online

20 - Hours

Wastewater Collection

Live Online

20 - Hours

Groundwater

Live Online

20 - Hours

Practical Math

Live Online

20 - Hours

June 22 - 24

Calculations

Live Online

20 - Hours

Pumps & Pumping

Live Online

20 - Hours

Surface 1

Live Online

24 - Hours

Basic Water

Live Online

20 - Hours

June 29 - July 1

Basic Wastewater

Live Online

20 - Hours

Safety

Live Online

20 - Hours

Surface 2

Live Online

20 - Hours

Management

Live Online

20 - Hours

18 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

April 2021

Looking for a BOOST in pH & Alkalinity? A leading provider of Magnesium Hydroxide Powder and Slurry throughout the US.

Chemistry:

1 Dry # of MgOH2 = 1.70 Lbs of Alkalinity (CaCO3) 1 Dry # of MgOH2 = 1.35 lbs of NaOH (Caustic) 1 Dry # of MgOH2 = 1.27 lbs of CaOH (Lime)

(281) 727-0402 Houston • Sulphur Springs sales@garrisonminerals.com

Storage and dosing equipment for any size plant avaliable. Call today for a free sample and information. www.garrisonminerals.com

Using state-of-the-art technologies, our experienced technicians offer solutions well beyond traditional leak detection capabilities to help you improve the performance of your utility system. These advanced services include: Pro-Active Leak Detection Preventive Maintenance Programs System-Wide Water Accountability Assessments GIS Mapping and Asset Management Services Drinking Water Regulatory Support Benefits of Utilizing SAMCO Services Reduce water production and distribution costs Improve overall efficiency and gain knowledge of your distribution system Improve water quality and assure adequate pressure to help safeguard public health Improve public water system compliance with State and Federal regulations

901 Mopac Expressway South, Suite 300 Austin, TX 78746 512-263-7043 (Office) 512-751-5325 (Mobile) sgodfrey@samco-leakservice.com www.samco-leakservice.com

April 2021

P. O. Box 9000 • Kilgore, Texas 75663-9000 903-984-0551 • Fax: 903-984-5914 www.ana-lab.com • email: corp@ana-lab.com Ana-Lab Corporation is an employee-owned organization which provides industry, government, consultants, and individuals with complete, timely, and accurate chemical analysis, including state approved total coliform testing. Amarillo 806-355-3556 806-679-8459

Austin Dallas Austin 972-620-8900 512-821-0045 512-821-0045 972-837-9412 Brownsville Houston 956-238-0208 281-333-9414 956-831-6437 281-333-9414

T104704201

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 19

With the onset of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the Governor’s Proclamation of a state of disaster in Texas, TCEQ intends to offer flexibility to licensees and disaster in Texas, TCEQ intends to offer flexibility to licensees and applicants who were in applicants who were in the process of renewing or receiving an occupational the process of renewing or receiving an occupational license and were impacted by this license and were impacted by this outbreak. With the onset of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the Governor’s Proclamation of a state of

outbreak.

InOperators the interestdesiring of safety,to paper exams havecontact been cancelled through TEST, should TCEQ in regards

However, to2020. testing. There are are some computer-based testingcenters centers remain To schedule there some computer-based testing thatthat remain open.open. To schedule a a computer-based please the contact the CBTnear centers to are verify computer-based exam, exam, please contact CBT centers you to near verifyyou if they stillif they areFor stillother operating. Fororother questions concerns, please email licenses@ operating. questions concerns, pleaseor email licenses@tceq.texas.gov. tceq.texas.gov.

Permian San Angelo, July 19th – 22nd Norma (432) 528-1608 Central West Texas Abilene, August 2nd – 5th Mickey (325) 548-2237 TCEQ Exam Application due 30 days prior to event Don’t forget if you are testing to Designate Test Location. 20 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

April 2021

American Flow Control. Part of the American landscape.

Small towns, big cities and Main Street, USA, wherever you go, there we are. AMERICAN has been part of the landscape for over a century. While our past is one of innovation, the same is true of our future. New products are always in the pipeline. When it comes to someone you can trust with your valve and hydrant needs, look no further than AMERICAN. The company where strength, dependability and integrity territory. just come with the territor

ALPHA GIS c a p t i vat e r I n n o v at i o n . I t ’ s p a r t o f e v e r y t h i n g w e d o .

ALPHA™ is a licensed trademark of Romac Industries, Inc. (US Patent 8,894,100)

PO Box 2727, Birmingham, AL 35202 Phone: 1-800-326-8051 • Fax: 1-800-610-3569 EOE//Vets/Disabilities

DUCTILE IRON PIPE

April 2021

FLOW CONTROL

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

www.american-usa.com/firehydrants S P I R A LW E L D P I P E

STEEL PIPE

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 21

Our $10M inventory means lead times in days, not weeks or months Superior solids handling impellers to keep up with modern wastewater demands HOMA’s PMR5 relay plugs into existing Mini-Cas Socket to simplify your retrofit A wide range of competitor adapters allow for installation of your new HOMA pump without costly downtime

Homa Pump Technology

info@homapump.com

(203) 736 - 8890

www.homapump.com

Need a Pump Repaired? Call Pump Solutions.

Full service repair center complete with test pit, blast and paint booth KSB Warranty Repair Facility Barnes Warranty Repair Facility

We work on all brands and models Factory certified repairs for KSB, Barnes, Weinman, Deming, Crown, and Cornell pumps Houston: 281-399-9400 Austin: 512-809-2302 Dallas: 817-684-0900 sales@pumpsolutions.net

FREE $595 PowerGrit XL Chain For TWUA Members Only

2+1 Chain/Bar

Text JCS to 31996 for an on-site demonstration.

Purchase an 695XL-16PG Package including gas saw, guidebar and 1 PowerGrit XL chain and receive 1 PowerGrit XL chain FREE ($595 value). Receive One (1) FREE Guidebar! $ (valued up to $430)

Member price 2699

When you buy Two (2) ICS® B

PowerGrit XL chain

Between May 1 and May 31, 2018*, for every purcha one (1) corresponding ICS Bra

Order N

Purchase an 890XL-15PG Package including hydraulic saw, guidebar and 1 PowerGrit XL chain and receive 1 PowerGrit XL chain FREE ($595 value). $

p: 800.321 f: 503.653. e: orders@icsdiam

Member price 4595

BONUS: Receive a $50 Walmart gift card when you schedule an onsite demonstration or operator training.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS * Quantities limited to supplies on hand. • ICS reserves the right to change the dates of the promotion with • Each pair of same-length chains purchased during the promotion Chain types may be mixed within a length. • Eligible chain: All MAX™ series, FORCE4® series and PowerGrit® • Accounts eligible for the ICS Quantity Diamond Purchasing Progr Offer may not be combined with any other discount, offer o • Chain prices will be TWUA based on FREE current ICS MSRP at the time of ord CHAIN • Order must be placed no later than May 31, 2018. OFFER EXPIRES • Order will ship subject to availability 31, 2020 • Orders must ship toMAY a single location. • Standard credit and freight terms apply. • Payment terms are subject to ICS credit policies and available on • All returned products subject to a 15% restocking fee. • Please mention “Promo C” when placing your order.

Jim Cox Sales, Inc.

Dear Licensed Operator:

r Promotion

The Class A Water Operator exam has been updated and is now available at many Computer-Based Testing (CBT) centers and on paper at the TCEQ Central Office in Austin. The new exam contains 100 multiple choice questions and no longer includes essays. Approved applicants will be allotted up to six (6) hours to complete the exam.

Brand Diamond Chains

If your application has been approved, you may register to take the paperbased exam at the TCEQ Central Office in Austin or contact a local CBT center to register forChains, the electronic version. ase of two (2) ICS® Brand Diamond

and Guidebar is FREE!

Now!

1.1240 .4393 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION mondtools.com connect. engage. educate.

hout notice nal period will earn a free corresponding bar.

DISTANT LEARNING

diamond chains. ram may take their discount on this promotion. or promotion. der.

NOW TCEQ APPROVED

nly to approved accounts.

icsdiamondtools.com Visit www.twua.org for more information

April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 25

TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION

Individual Membership Application Use this form to: 1) Join TWUA "At Large" 2) Join TWUA and a District/Chapter 3) Renew your TWUA Membership Please Print Clearly Application for: o

Active Member

o o o o

Full-Time Student Retired Member Membership Renewal New Member

"At Large" or District/Chapter Name:____________________ Membership for year 20____ Name:____________________________________________________ SS# _______ - _______ - __________ Home Address:_____________________________________________ City:____________________________State:________ Zip:___________ Home Phone: (

)____________________________________

Work Phone: (

)____________________________________

E-Mail Address:_____________________________________________

Employer:______________________________________ Job Title:_______________________________________ Amount of Dues Enclosed: $________________________ Signature of Member:_______________________________________ Today's Date:______________________________________________ A portion of your TWUA Dues is allocated for a subscription to the Texas Water Utilities Journal. Submit all dues to the TWUA Central Office: TWUA Central Office, 210 East Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Tx. 78634 For more information, Ms. Adee at: 512-279-8129. Fax: 512-459-7124.

April 2021

Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 27

TCEQ FEBRUARY LICENSES BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY TESTER ADAIR, JAMES KELLY BANUELOS, JUAN BAUTISTA, ISAIAH M CARROLL, LANE DAVID DENBY, DAVID R DURAN, LEOPOLDO JR GILLIAM, CHRISTOPHER DWIGHT GRIFFITH, LEE JANNUCCI, MICHAEL MCCUTCHEON, JAMES J NOWETNER, JOSEPH R POWELL, LOREN M REYNA, RAMON III SAENZ, JOHN D SALINAS, HECTOR O SANDERS, TERRY STAGGS, JESSICA L TAYLOR, ROBERT A JR TIRADO, EDUARDO VANNESS, JEREMY AUSTIN WESTCOTT, KRISTOPHER RJ LES WILLIAMS, CODY AARON CUSTOMER SERVICE INSPECTOR BERNAL, JORGE JR BRESSLER, BRADLEY JOHN COLTON, ALLEN T LOVELADY, JERRY W JR MCADAMS, MICHAEL B GROUND WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR CLASS B CASTILLO, ANDREW S COSEK, STARLITE R FIELDEN, NICHOLAS K SAMPLES, AARON M SMITH, FRANCO A CLASS C ALONZO, ROY BOWMAN, TERRY B JR BURROUGHS, MICHAEL CARROLL, JONATHAN ROBERT CLETO, ARTURO G DELTORO, JEREMY ANTHONY DIAZ, LORENZO DICKERSON, CLINT GANT, JOSHUA HESTER, DANIEL C

JONES, ALEX JOHN JONES, SHAWN MARKHAM, JAY ALBERT MARTINEZ, JOSE DANIEL MENDOZA, ROLANDO R ORTEGA, ARTHUR SEALES, DEAN A SIEMS, MATTHEW L SOSA, RENE M SPELL, BESSIE A SWAN, TERRY S THOMPSON, GEENA DANIELLE VAIL, MICHAEL JOSEPH WEILER, COLTON ZUAREZ, JUAN

GONZALEZ, GARRETT D HERNANDEZ-RUIZ, ANGEL HERRERA, SALVADOR L JR ISAAC, ARCHIE LOWERY, LEMORRIS MEAD, TIMOTHY J JR MONTOYA, STEVEN NETRO, TOMAS A RODRIGUEZ, ALEJANDRO TAPIA, VICTOR TOON, ROBERT II TRUETT, TY WILLIAMS, WAYLON S

SURFACE WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR

CLASS A

CLASS B BLEHM, MONTANA C DESPAGNE, HERBERT GARZA, ERNESTO LAW, ROBERT J III LEE, MARK S RAMIREZ, JOSE M SIERRA ORTIZ, MOISES OMAR CLASS C BYRD, FREDDIE CHANDLER, ROBERT ERIC CHILTON, CLINTON A COOK, ANDREW NASH DECKER, TYLER JAMES FILLINGIM, ALEXANDRA GALINDO, RODOLFO LOZANO, JUAN CARLOS MCGLOCKLIN, FRED PATTERSON, BENNIE PRESTAMO, DAVID RODRIGUEZ, BRITTNEY LEEANN TORRES, ESGAR WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR CLASS B FORD, MICHAEL CLASS C ALTON, ERIC C BEAVER, CLAYTON A BETZ, LAUREN N EVERS, FRANK T II GAONA, EMMANUEL

28 Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org

WATER OPERATOR

HOLLEY, SKYLAR M JACOBS, JERIMIAH L SR STRICKLAND, CODY L CLASS D ACUNA, JEFFREY C ALMAGUER, AUSTIN TRAVIS ARMENDARIZ, IRVIN BAKER, WILLIAM DOCK BARE, KEATON BARTON, TRAE D BATISTA, RYAN BELL, MICHAEL BENTON, CASEY BINDSEIL, ANDREW BLACK, LANDYN BONELLO, MARK BRANTLEY, JOSHUA CALVIN BROWNJORDAN, TYJON BURNETTE, BLADE ALEXANDER CANTU, FEDERICO LEE CARDENAS, JUAN JR CARR, DWIGHT CLARK, NATHAN CORDLE, MASON DANIEL CROW, WILLIAM JOSEPH DANTON, MATHEW DAVIS, JAKWAN DAWSON, TYLER DELAROSA, ARNOLD DELEO, PHILIP DIAZ, ALONSO DIBBERN, ALYSSA DICKEY, JOHN CHRISTIAN DOMINGUEZ, ANDREA DOUGLAS, COLLIN DEAN ELBERSON, AARON LEE FARMER, JEREMY ALAN FLEMING, JENNIFER GALINDO, GABRIEL G

GANNON, DILLION PAUL GARZA, JUSTIN GONZALEZ, RENE GONZALEZ, RYAN ANTHONY GORDE, VIRAJ ROHIDAS GUILLEN, EVER HENRY, CHRISTOPHER ALLEN HILL, ZACHARY HODGSON, HADEN THOMAS HOLDERMAN, ROBERT JUSTIN JAMES, DANIEL MARTIN JOHNSON, DUSTIN JOYCE, JEFF KADERKA, KURT ASHTON KAPLAN, NATHAN KENDRICK, RYAN LEE, BRIAN K LUNA, SERGIO ALAN MAHAN, SETH DALE MARICELLI, SHAWN CHRISTOPHER MARTINEZ, OSCAR MATA, JASMINE DESIREE MEADOR, JOSEPH BENJAMIN MEZA, MICHAEL MUESKE, JASON NUNEZ, JUAN OSBURN, RICKIE LEE PERKINS, DETREVIUS PETROSKY, MARSHALL PHILLIPS, RYAN PRAGUE, JACOB PRINGLE, KAYLYNN JEAN ROBB, JASON H ROBERTS, ISAAC DWAYNE ROLAND, LESLIE SHELTON, DUSTY SMITH, EFFERON S II STEAKLEY, ROBERT E THEISS, RUSTY VERRETT, ELIZABETH VILLA, MIGUEL WALLACE, JACOB ALAN WHITEHEAD, JEREMY WINKFIELD, JUSTIN BERNARD WRIGHT, MATTHEW WUNDERLICH, KALEB J WASTEWATER COLLECTION OPERATOR COLLECTIONS I CAMERON, KYLER GARRETT CASTRO MUNOZ, OMAR CASTRO, ANTHONY LOUIS EDDY, STETSON L FIGUEROA, ALEJANDRO FLORES, TOBEY S III

April 2021

TCEQ FEBRUARY LICENSES GARZA, BRYAN T GUERRERO, EDGAR HERNANDEZ, JULIAN BRANDON INGRAM, CODY DANIEL JUAREZ, RICHARD M LANDRY, ELIJAH DESEAN MARTINEZ, RANDELL P MEDRANO, SIXTO A MICHALIK, WAYNE W MURROW, JARRETT L POTVIN, BLAKE RUSSELL, EDDIE LEE SCHAFTENAAR, JAMES ALLEN TAYLOR, JAMIESON TOMPKINS, BRANDON TOVAR, THOMAS B TRINIDAD, BILLY JOE TUCKER, TYRIK D VASQUEZ, DANIEL VELASQUEZ-GOSIGER, ZACHARY MATTHEW VILLARREAL, ABEL WINKFIELD, JUSTIN BERNARD COLLECTIONS II BARRERA, ALEJANDRO J BRYAN, LORI CLARK, DANIEL JUSTIN ESCAMILLA, ANDY FRAZIER, KYLE HAMMETT, MIKE A JOHNSON, JESSE H JR KENDALL, JOHN B IV MARTINEZ, FABIAN J METCALFE, JAMES R QUINTANILLA, JULIAN RAMIREZ, MIGUEL A ROSALIES, PETE

LOPEZ, PAUL M SAMPSON, DELWIN D TAPLEY, RICHARD J WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATOR CLASS B DIBLER, TERRY J JONES, JEREMY B KOWZIC, STANLEY G MASON, JOSHUA L MONTELONGO, JOSEPH A NGILA, JAMES T PRUSKI, ROGER E QUINTERO, JACOB U SEGURA, RUPERTO CLASS C ALVAREZ, ROBERT BEARDEN, WILLIAM J BROWN, JACKIE S CAMPOS, ERIC CHERNOSKY, KYLE L COMBS, ERIC DAVIS, RONALD D JR ESCOBAR, JORDAN GONZALEZ, JOEL HARRIS, TAMMIE LAWS, MATTHEW JARED LEDESMA, AMADO JR LEDEZMA, DIEGO MALONE, WESLEY E MARTINEZ, RODRIGO E RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL ALEJANDRO SALINAS, ADRIAN JR TAIT, JACOB JENNINGS TEALE, TRENT VESS, JEFFREY E

CLASS D ALLEN, CAMILLE ALLEN, CORY J BARNES, JARED BRIONES, REFUGIO BURNETT, DALTEN CAMPBELL, JOHN S CARBAJAL, BRIAN JESS CARDENAS, ALEJANDRO CASTELLI, DAN ANTHONY CORDOVA SOLTERO, ARISBETH CORNELIUS, CHRIS REID CRAWFORD, CALEB JAMES CUDE, JACOB MICHAEL DAWSON, DUSTIN R DAY, STEVEN FLENTROY, JASHOD FLOYD, VINCENZO ALFRED FRY, JONATHAN GARCIA, ANTONIO GARZA, CARLOS GARZA, JAY GETTS, KEITH DOUG GILBERT, CAMERON GREENE, JACOB GUTIERREZ, JOEY

HADEN, TIM FRANK HERRMANN, UWE HEYSQUIERDO, CYNTHIA HILARIO, DOMINIC LARA, JOHNNY LONGCOR, TREVER LEE LUIS, FRANCISCO MARTINEZ, DAVID G MASTIN, JOHN EDWARD MENDEZ, ELIAS MENDOZA, DAVID MILLER, REBECCA A MISHOE, DANIEL PIERCE, COLTON JAMES RAGSDALE, ROBIN REPASS, CATHERINE ROLON, JATNIEL SALA, TREVOR STEVENS, KEVIN THOMPSON, CALEB MARTIN VERNATTER, CHARLIE E VICKERS, DAVIS RICHARD VILLANUEVA, JESUS WEISER, ROBERT WILLIS, JARRATT

EGSW

Environmental Group Southwest

WIPES IN PIPES

With Micro-Solve® microorganisms multiply. This reduces the grease that binds wipes together. Micro-Solve® reduces the risk of contact with disease.

COLLECTIONS III ISBELL, LANCE C

Exam Prep Optimize Mental Readiness

Wipes when flushed and combined with other products and grease that is poured down drains, create "fatbergs". Once they enter the sewer lines, they can accumulate and cause backups, damaging the city's infrastructure.

WHAT IF You knew “HOW” you would NOT fail? April 2021

Call 512-775-5358 www.egsw.us Texas Water Utilities Journal www.twua.org 29

PROTECT WORKERS IN TRENCHES Prevent trench collapses and save lives:

SLOPE or bench

trench walls,

SHORE trench walls

with supports, or

SHIELD trench

Photo: Efficiency Production – NAXSA

WWW.OSHA.GOV/TRENCHING • 800-321-OSHA (6742) • TTY 877-889-5627

OSHA 3215-06R 2018

walls with trench boxes

There’s a NEW KID on the block. Meet the newest line of wastewater pumps from the company with the highest reputation for quality and innovation. Made in the U.S.A. With over 50 years of manufacturing excellence and multiple awards for growth, Liberty Pumps is proud to announce the newest offering of products for the municipal and commercial pump market. Designed by our talented group of product engineers and built by our dedicated manufacturing team – right here in the U.S.A.

A Family and Employee Owned Company.

www.libertypumps.com/LEP 800.543.2550

Smith Pump Company Fort Worth • Waco • Austin • Houston

1-800-299-8909

One of Americas fastest growing, privately owned companies.