Florida Water Resources Journal - June 2014 by Florida Water Resources Journal

Editor’s Office and Advertiser Information:

Florida Water Resources Journal 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive Clermont, FL 34711 Phone: 352-241-6006 • Fax: 352-241-6007 Email: Editorial, editor@fwrj.com Display and Classified Advertising, ads@fwrj.com

Business Office: P.O. Box 745, Windermere, FL 34786-0745 Web: http://www.fwrj.com General Manager:

Michael Delaney

Editor:

Rick Harmon

Graphic Design Manager:

Patrick Delaney

Mailing Coordinator:

Buena Vista Publishing

Published by BUENA VISTA PUBLISHING for Florida Water Resources Journal, Inc. President: Richard Anderson (FSAWWA) Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority Vice President: Greg Chomic (FWEA) Heyward Incorporated Treasurer: Rim Bishop (FWPCOA) Seacoast Utility Authority Secretary: Holly Hanson (At Large) ILEX Services Inc., Orlando

Moving? The Post Office will not forward your magazine. Do not count on getting the Journal unless you notify us directly of address changes by the 15th of the month preceding the month of issue. Please do not telephone address changes. Email changes to changes@fwrj.com, fax to 352-241-6007, or mail to Florida Water Resources Journal, 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711

Membership Questions FSAWWA: Casey Cumiskey – 407-957-8447 or fsawwa.casey@gmail.com FWEA: Karen Wallace, Executive Manager – 407-574-3318 FWPCOA: Darin Bishop – 561-840-0340

Training Questions FSAWWA: Donna Metherall – 407-957-8443 or fsawwa.donna@gmail.com FWPCOA: Shirley Reaves – 321-383-9690

Florida Water Resources Conference Review 12 14 15 16 24 30

Conference Highlights—Holly Hanson Exhibit Hall Technical Program Awards Competitions Water For People Fundraiser

News And Features

Columns

32 Vaith Takes Office as 2014-2015 FWEA President 32 2014-2015 FWEA Board of Directors 33 2014-2015 FWEA Officers, Chairs, and Advisors List 54 First West Coast Water Festival a Success—Alice Varkey 56 News Beat

Technical Articles

FSAWWA Speaking Out— Carl R. Larrabee Jr. FWEA Focus—Kart Vaith

36 40 Certification Boulevard—Roy Pelletier 42 C Factor—Jeff Poteet 58 FWRJ Reader Profile—Tim Harley

Departments 52 61 64 66

New Products Service Directories Classifieds Display Advertiser Index

4 How Will Nutrient Management Planning Impact Biosolids Land Application?—Douglas Jones 44 Waste Activated Sludge Pretreatment to Boost Volatile Solids Reduction and Digester Gas Production: Market and Technology Assessment—J. Hunter Long and C. Michael Bullard

For Other Information DEP Operator Certification: Ron McCulley – 850-245-7500 FSAWWA: Peggy Guingona – 407-957-8448 Florida Water Resources Conference: 888-328-8448 FWPCOA Operators Helping Operators: John Lang – 772-559-0722, e-mail – oho@fwpcoa.org FWEA: Karen Wallace, Executive Manager – 407-574-3318

Websites Florida Water Resources Journal: www.fwrj.com FWPCOA: www.fwpcoa.org FSAWWA: www.fsawwa.org FWEA: www.fwea.org and www.fweauc.org Florida Water Resources Conference: www.fwrc.org Throughout this issue trademark names are used. Rather than place a trademark symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, we state we are using the names only in an editorial fashion, and to the benefit of the trademark owner, with no intention of infringement of the trademark. None of the material in this publication necessarily reflects the opinions of the sponsoring organizations. All correspondence received is the property of the Florida Water Resources Journal and is subject to editing. Names are withheld in published letters only for extraordinary reasons. Authors agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Florida Water Resources Journal Inc. (FWRJ), its officers, affiliates, directors, advisors, members, representatives, and agents from any and all losses, expenses, third-party claims, liability, damages and costs (including, but not limited to, attorneys’ fees) arising from authors’ infringement of any intellectual property, copyright or trademark, or other right of any person, as applicable under the laws of the State of Florida.

Education and Training 38 FSAWWA Conference 41 ISA Water/Wastewater and Automatic Controls Symposium 43 TREEO Center Training 45 FWPCOA State Short School 47 FWAWWA Conference Call for Papers 55 FWPCOA Training Calendar 60 CEU Challenge

Volume 66

ON THE COVER: Methane Madness team members take part in the maintenance event during the Operations Challenge. The team, from City of St. Cloud, won the contest, which was held at the 89th Florida Water Resources Conference. (photo: Patty Delaney)

June 2014

Number 6

Florida Water Resources Journal, USPS 069-770, ISSN 0896-1794, is published monthly by Florida Water Resources Journal, Inc., 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711, on behalf of the Florida Water & Pollution Control Operator’s Association, Inc.; Florida Section, American Water Works Association; and the Florida Water Environment Association. Members of all three associations receive the publication as a service of their association; $6 of membership dues support the Journal. Subscriptions are otherwise available within the U.S. for $24 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Clermont, FL and additional offices.

POSTMASTER: send address changes to Florida Water Resources Journal, 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711

Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

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How Will Nutrient Management Planning Impact Biosolids Land Application? Douglas Jones he latest revision to biosolids rules (Chapter 62-640, Florida Administrative Code) has been in the works since 2002, with final adoption by the Environmental Regulatory Commission in 2010. The goals of the revised rules are to: (1) reduce nutrient loading in water bodies and groundwater by requiring nutrient management for all sites; (2) improve accountability and land application site management; and (3) address continuing public concerns of biosolids. Under the old rules, biosolids were land-applied based on the vegetationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nitrogen demand. In the past, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) rules allowed nitrogen application based on the nitrogen loading table in Rule 62640.750(2)(a), FAC. For Bahia and Bermuda grasses, FDEP routinely allowed nitrogen

loading of 360 to 500 lbs/acre-year. Rule 62640.750(2)(a), FAC has since been repealed. The new rules require the crop nitrogen demand to be fully documented. In addition, the new rules require similar documentation for crop phosphorus demand. These changes have the potential to significantly reduce the quantity of biosolids that can be applied to sites.

Significant Rule Changes and Nutrient Management Plan Requirements The FDEP has prepared an overview of the new rule changes. This document can be obtained online at http://www.dep.state.fl.us/ water/wastew a ter / d o m / d o c s / n e w - b i o s o l i d s - r u l e -

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

Douglas Jones is senior project manager at Chastain-Skillman Inc. in Lakeland.

overview.pdf. The more significant changes are summarized below: All land application sites must be permitted under the new rules. Site permits must be renewed every five years. Wastewater treatment facilities must identify permitted sites before beginning biosolids application at the site. Site permitting requires a site-specific, fiveyear nutrient management plan (NMP). The plan must be prepared by a professional engineer or certified nutrient management planContinued on page 6

Table 1. P Index Interpretation

Table 2. Phosphorus Potential Due to Site and Transport Characteristics: Part A

Table 3. Transport Potential Due to Phosphorus Source Management: Part B

Continued from page 4 ner. The NMP replaces the old agricultural use plan, but is much more comprehensive. The NMP determines whether biosolids loading may be based on nitrogen or phosphorus. This determination may have a significant impact on the quantity of biosolids that may be applied to a site. Application rates must consider phosphorus assessment, all nutrient sources, nitrogen mineralization, crop yields, and calcium carbonate equivalency. Soil testing for fertility and background metals is required. Groundwater monitoring of sites may be required under certain circumstances. New requirements for alkaline-treated biosolids include a Âź-mi setback to property lines for surface application or a waiver from adjacent property owners. The NMP must identify each application zone and include aerial photographs, maps, soil survey, and setback distances to vulnerable resources such as wells, wetlands, and other critical habitats. The NMP must provide guidance for implementation of nutrient planning, site operation, maintenance, and recordkeeping. Application rates are to be based on soil fertility testing, biosolids analyses, and site-specific conditions. The NMP must identify crops, method of biosolids application, harvesting method, and realistic anticipated crop yields. All nutrient sources must be accounted for in the NMP. Changes to crop type, application method, or nutrient sources require the NMP to be revised and approved by FDEP. The following sources can provide valuable guidance in preparation of NMPs: United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service Florida Field Technical Guide â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nutrient Management, Code 590 University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Nutrient Management Series

Phosphorus Index The Phosphorus Index (P Index) is a sitespecific tool used to provide a qualitative assessment of sites that are vulnerable to off-site movement of phosphorus. The P Index is used as a decision-making tool for nutrient management planning. Specifically, for biosolids assessment, it is used to assess the vulnerability of specific application zones and determine whether a zone can be loaded based on a nitrogen or phosphorus budget. Continued on page 8

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Figure 1. Winter Haven Biosolids Application Site

Continued from page 6 The result of the P Index is a unitless value that provides generalized assessment of phosphorus transport potential. Table 1 provides the four categories for transport potential. It has been shown that FDEP will allow nitrogen-based loading for zones with a “low” or “medium” potential for phosphorus transport. Conservation methods, such as strict adherence to buffer zones and more frequent fertility testing, can lessen the chance of phosphorus transport for “medium” zones. For application zones with a “high” potential, an effective conservation method is to reduce biosolids (or total nutrient) application. This method will reduce the P Index for the zone by reducing the total phosphorus applied. The P Index assesses what is risk-based on those characteristics related to the specific site and transport (Part A) and those related to phosphorus source and management (Part B). The P Index is determined by multiplying the values obtained in Part A (Table 2) and Part B (Table 3). In Part A, the soil erosion is the product of the rainfall factor, soil erodibility factor, slope length of the site, cover

Figure 2. Location of Soil Samples

management factor, and the conservation support practice factor. These factors may be obtained and/or calculated by consulting the IFAS nutrient management series. Runoff and leaching potentials are determined based on the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) hydrologic soil groups, slope, and any artificial drainage at the site. The FDEP has been allowing the use of NRCS soil maps, rather than obtaining soil borings of the site. The “potential to reach water body” is determined based on site characteristics and the availability of buffers to attenuate discharge. The sum of the four sites and transport characteristics provides the total value for Part A. In Part B, the Fertility Index is defined as Mehlich-1 extractable phosphorus in parts per mil (ppm) of a 0-6 in. depth soil sample multiplied by two to convert to pounds per acre. The 0.025 multiplication factor is used to provide a value range similar to other parameters in the P Index. The P application source and rate is based upon the planned nutrient source and quantity to be applied to the site. The sum of the Fertility Index Value, P application source and rate, application method, and amount of

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

wastewater applied to the site provides the total value for Part B.

Case Study Biosolids from the City of Winter Haven’s two wastewater treatment plants (WWTP #2 and WWTP #3) are applied on city-owned land at WWTP #3. The site is divided into 10 application zones totaling 110.56 acres of Callie Bermuda grass (Figure 1). The site was previously approved for a nitrogen loading rate of 500 lbs/acre-year with no limit on phosphorus. The NMP established new loading rates based on agronomic crop demand, biosolids analyses, and soil testing results. Ten soil samples were collected from each zone and composited into one sample per zone according to the IFAS soil testing protocol. The location of the samples were randomly selected (Figure 2). The application rates are based on Callie Bermuda grass and haying operations. No other sources of nutrients are applied to the site. Nitrogen application rates are based on guidelines published in IFAS Document No. SS AGR 60, “Bermudagrass Production in

Florida.” For hay production, the IFAS recommends a nitrogen application rate of 80 lbs/acre and an additional 80 lbs/acre after each cutting, except for the last cutting in the fall. The FDEP method was utilized to determine the nitrogen application rate. This method is based on the assumption that only 50 percent of the nitrogen in biosolids is available as plant-available nitrogen (PAN). The FDEP method consists of a multiplication factor of 1.5 times the crop demand, which accounts for mineralized nitrogen. Based on this method, two harvestings per year, and IFAS recommendations, the maximum annual nitrogen application rate was established at 240 lbs/acre-year or less than 50 percent of that previously approved for the site. The maximum phosphorus application rate was calculated on the initial assumption that biosolids application to all zones would be based on the maximum nitrogen application rate of 240 lbs/acre-year. The calculated phosphorus application was then utilized to calculate the P Index for each zone. The P Index was used to determine whether a nitrogen-based budget could be

used. Calculation of the maximum phosphorus loading was based on the four-year average biosolids nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations (4.85 percent and 4.19 percent, respectively). Those zones with an initial P Index rating greater than 150 (high or very high) were re-evaluated based on a phosphorus budget. Crop demand for phosphorus was evaluated based on the Agricultural Waste Management Field Handbook, which states that phosphorus comprises 0.19 percent of dry harvested Bermuda grass and the typical yield is 16,000 lbs/acre-year of plant part. Bermuda grass demand for phosphorus (as total P) was then calculated as: 16,000 lbs/acre-year x 0.19 percent = 30.4 lbs P/acre-year Bermuda grass demand for P2O5 was calculated as: 30.4 lbs P/acre-year x 2.2915 (conversion factor) = 69.7 lbs P2O5/acre-year This P2O5 demand was then input into the P Index worksheet under “P Application Source and Rate.” If the revised P Index rating was 150 or less (low or medium), then

Figure 3. Zone 1 P Index Calculation Based on Nitrogen Budget

the maximum quantity of biosolids to be applied to the zone was calculated as: Crop demand for P ( percent P in biosolids)) x zone acreage = lbs biosolids/zone-year Figure 3 shows the calculations for Zone 1 based on a nitrogen loading of 240 lbs/acre-year. Using a nitrogen budget, the zone could be loaded with 74,474 lbs of biosolids, to reach a nitrogen loading of 240 lbs/acre. However, based on the average phosphorus concentration of the biosolids, the resulting P Index would be 154 (high potential for phosphorus transport from the site). Therefore, the P Index was recalculated based on a phosphorus budget (30.4 lbs P/acre-year or 69.7 lbs P2O5/acre-year) shown in Figure 4. The resulting P Index was 106 (medium potential for phosphorus transport from the site). Using a phosphorus budget, the zone could be loaded with 10,919 lbs of biosolids to reach a P2O5 loading of 67.7 lbs/acre, which is an 85 percent reduction in the biosolids capacity of the zone. Table 4 shows the P Index for each application zone when calculated based on a Continued on page 10

Figure 4. Zone 1 P Index Calculation Based on Phosphorus Budget Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Continued from page 9 nitrogen budget of 240 lbs/acre-year. Five of the ten zones showed either a high or very high potential for phosphorus transport from the site. Table 5 shows the P Index for each application zone when recalculated based on the controlling nutrient (240 lbs/acre-year for nitrogen or 30.4 lbs/acre-year for phosphorus). The P Index for the four “high” potential zones was reduced to less than 150 by basing the biosolids application on a phosphorus budget. Zone 3 continued to show a very high potential to transport phosphorus off site even when application was based on a phosphorus budget. This is due the excess phosphorus concentration in the soil samples (451 ppm P for Zone 3 versus an average of 124 ppm P for the remaining nine zones). At this time, no source of phosphorus may be applied to Zone 3. Table 6 shows the estimated biosolids capacity for each zone under the old rules and the current NMP. The capacity of the zones with a nitrogen budget was reduced by approximately 52 percent, with the maximum nitrogen application rate decreasing from 500 lbs/acre-day to 240 lbs/acre-day. The zones with a phosphorus budget were reduced by approximately 94 percent. Overall, the capacity of the biosolids site was reduced by 79 percent.

Table 4. Initial P Index Results Based on Nitrogen Budget

Table 5. Final P Index Results Based on Controlling Nutrient

Conclusions The case study demonstrates the significant impact that the new biosolids rules may have on land application in Florida. It will be interesting to determine the overall reduction in capacity once existing application sites have been permitted. It can be expected that there will be a shortage of application sites, which will drive the cost of biosolids disposal higher, either through increased land application costs or further movement to Class AA biosolids.

References • Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Circular DIR239 – “Soil Testing.” • Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Nutrient Management Series: Computational Tools for Field Implementation of the Florida Phosphorus Index – Polk County, Florida. • Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences SS-AGR-60 – “Bermudagrass Production in Florida.” • USDA NRCS Florida Field Technical Guide – Nutrient Management, Code 590. • USDA NRCS Agricultural Waste Management Field Handbook.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Table 6. Impact of NMP on Biosolids Application at Winter Haven Site

Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

– 2014 FLORIDA WATER RESOURCES CONFERENCE REVIEW –

89th Florida Water Resources Conference Highlights

Holly Hanson The relaxed and carefree atmosphere of a Disney resort and the warm, sunny Florida springtime were just a few of many factors contributing to the success of the 2014 Florida Water Resources Conference (FWRC). Held April 5-9 at the beautiful Disney Coronado Springs Resort and Convention Center, the conference was a convergence of exhibitors, attendees, networking functions, workshops, and outstanding technical sessions. This year’s theme, “Sustainability: Balancing of Supply and Demand,” focused on water resources and demand issues, watershed management and water quality issues, wastewater treatment methodologies, biosolids, and socioeconomic affairs. All of these topics were discussed at length in the hopes of achieving sustainable and equitable access to clean water. Provisions of this resource, which is essential for everything from sustaining life to enabling modern industrial development, is tightly intertwined with the health and integrity of the natural environment. In Florida, water demand is increasing rapidly, while sustainable and inexpensive water supplies remain limited or are being depleted. There is a significant need for novel management strategies and technological innovation in water supply, distribution, end use, and treatment. The FWRC is a joint conference of the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association, Florida Water Environment Association, and the Florida Water and Pollution Control Operators Association. The goal of FWRC is to “continue improving the quality of water and wastewater throughout the state of Florida.” The first joint venture of this type in the nation, FWRC is a model for other regions looking for a forum for the latest technologies in

both equipment and advanced information. Over 300 vendors from the United States and Canada displayed their new equipment and technologies to address these issues. Knowing that they were involved in the largest joint utility show in the Southeast, exceeded only by California and Texas in show size, “quality floor time” and “great contacts” and “best show ever” were among the many compliments received from exhibitors. The conference provided an unprecedented opportunity for a full schedule of technical sessions and workshops on potable water treatment, utility management, collection systems, sustainability measures, water supply, distribution systems, reclamation and reuse, resource recovery, stormwater, and many more subjects. The Reuse Roundtable shared the spotlight with stormwater, where attendees discussed growing interest in designing new systems that prevent flooding, while also allowing the capture and reuse of some of the stormwater. Ongoing current reuse practices, projects, and policies taking place throughout the state were also discussed. Workshops were presented by industry professionals on such subjects as biological nutrient removal design and operation; Water Environment Research Foundation leaders information forum for technology (LIFT) program, addressing nitrogen removal, digestion enhancements, and energy from biosolids; water reuse, supply, and resources projects; chloramination; asset management; adenosine triphosphate (ATP) monitoring of biological communities and process control in water and wastewater; and leveraging geographic information systems (GIS). Sunday, the Student Design Competition, sponsored by the Florida Water Environment Association, kicked off with university students showcasing their senior capstone projects. The team from the University of South Florida took home the honors in the wastewater division, and the

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

University of Miami had the winning team in the environmental division. Both teams will compete in the national Student Design Competition at the Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC) event to be held in New Orleans in October. Later that evening everyone gathered on the exhibit floor for the president’s reception. A coupling of the meet-and-greet and opening session, FWRC President Scott Kelly, with the City of West Palm Beach, graciously welcomed all the guests. A grand placard recognition of all sponsors surrounded the center stage and worked into the overall ambience beautifully. A DJ provided a mix of musical selections to enhance the event. Teams from several utilities competed in the Operations Challenge competition in the newly established “competitions area” of the exhibit hall. This annual event, coordinated by Chris Fasnacht, with the City of St. Cloud, and his team of volunteers, is an exciting event where utility teams demonstrate their precision, speed, and safety, with each team representing a local utility. Winners are determined by a weighted point system for five events (collection systems, laboratory, process control, maintenance, and safety), each designed to test the diverse skills required for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities, their collection systems, and laboratories. The Methane Madness team from the City of St. Cloud won the competition, a prequalifier for the national competition, and they will also travel to New Orleans. Over 450 people attended the FWRC awards luncheon held on Monday, where those individuals and facilities doing “the very best of what we do” were recognized. President Scott Kelly hosted the annual luncheon and awards ceremony where the three sponsoring associations presented

awards to outstanding industry professionals, organizations, and facilities. In attendance was Gary Macdonald, BECA, from Auckland, New Zealand. A member of the board of trustees of the Water Environment Federation, he presented several of the awards. A highlight of the luncheon was the induction of three new members into the Florida Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers. The challenging Top Ops Contest, held annually, tests the everyday know-how of water treatment operators in a “college bowl” format. Composed of teams of licensed water plant treatment operators, this is an opportunity to showcase their knowledge of treatment operations to their peers. Top honors in the competition went to the Water Buoys team from the City of Palm Coast. The team will defend its national championship at the AWWA Annual Conference, to be held in Boston this June. A procession, lead by two bagpipe players from the City of Dunedin, carried their water sample entry for the Best Drinking Water Contest into the exhibit hall. Bragging rights for the best drinking water in Florida go to Ave Maria Utility Company. Held annually, this event evaluates water samples for the coveted honor of best tasting tap water. Judging is based on taste, appearance, and odor. The FWEA annual meeting and luncheon took place with awards and recognitions, and the passing of the gavel to the incoming president, Kart Vaith, with the Constantine Group in Jacksonville. Gary Macdonald, on the WEF board of trustees, promoted clean water and the importance of membership in the Federation. The conference exhibits closed with an afternoon reception, cash drawings, and a grand prize won by Al Castro of Orange County Utilities. This being their second year at FWRC, FLOWTITE was the lucky exhibitor whose booth was still intact and will receive a free booth at the 2015 FWRC, to be held May 3-6 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando. On Wednesday at the golf tournament, half a field (72) teed off at the gorgeous Disney Palm Golf Club, coordinated by Bill Heller of Hydra Services. The FWEA Utility Council held its annual meeting, along with a board of directors meeting, with over 35 Florida utilities being represented. The 2014 Florida Water Resources Conference wrapped up another successful event with over 302 exhibitors and 2,341 folks in attendance. Next year will be even better!! Holly Hanson is executive director of the Florida Water Resources Conference. Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

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The Most Current Products and Processes The exhibit hall this year included over 300 companies, with vendors and company representatives presenting the latest technologies and innovations. The hall was also the site for the evening receptions, prize giveaways, drinking water taste test, Top Ops, Operations Challenge, and awards presentations. Pictured are some of the activities in the hall.

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Learning From Those in the Industry The technical program included sessions on potable water treatment, nutrient removal, reclamation and reuse, water supply, utility management, resources recovery, distribution systems, collection systems, biosolids, mixed issues for water and wastewater, and technology updates; an operators showcase; contractors forum; and workshops that addressed effective biological nutrient removal design and operations, practicable sustainability, chloramination, affordable asset management, leveraging geographic information systems, and stormwater and reuse. Pictured are some of the sessions and workshops.

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Each year the Florida Water and Pollution Control Operators Association, the Florida Water Environment Association, and the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association honor outstanding individuals, utilities, and other organizations for contributions to the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water and wastewater industry. The awards were presented at the two lunches held during the conference.

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FWEA Awards FWEA Presidents Award This award is presented for outstanding corporate support of FWEA through encouragement of employee involvement and financial support. CDM Smith Accepted by Danielle Honour, Rebecca Oliva, Kevin Leo, Lena Rivera, and Suzanne Mechler.

Public Education Awards Young Professional of the Year Award Presented to Kristiana Dragash.

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

Campaign Category City of Pompano Beach Utilities Department ICANWATER Accepted by Isabella Slagle. (left) Organization Category City of Orlando Accepted by Athena Parslow. (right)

Earle B. Phelps Awards

Secondary Wastewater Treatment Facility First Place Lee County Three Oaks Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Edward Ellyatt and John Hollingsworth.

Advanced Secondary Wastewater Treatment Facility First Place Bonita Springs Utilities East Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by Clifford Morris and Andy Koebel.

Secondary Wastewater Treatment Facility Runner-Up Hillsborough County Van Dyke Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Ryan Alexander, Mack Luton, and Paul Macchia.

Advanced Secondary Wastewater Treatment Facility Honorable Mention City of Marco Island Reclaimed Water Production Facility Accepted by Jake Hepokoski.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility 5 to 15 mgd Category First Place Reedy Creek Improvement District Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by Charlie Reed and Randy Sims.

Advanced Secondary Wastewater Treatment Facility Runner-Up City of Lake Wales Reclaimed Water Treatment Plant Accepted by Ted Long and Randy Britt.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility 5 to 15 mgd Category Runner-Up City of Plant City Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by Stephen Bailey, Patrick Murphy, Frank Coughenour, and Steve Saffels.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Greater Than 15 mgd Category First Place City of Tallahassee Thomas P. Smith Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by Sondra Lee.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Greater Than 15 mgd Category Runner-Up City of Orlando Iron Bridge Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by Scherman Davis, Tony Shorter, and Bob Rang.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility 5 to 15 mgd Category Honorable Mention City of Venice Eastside Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by James Petrosky.

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Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Less Than 5 mgd Category First Place City of Marathon Service Areas (Little Venice) Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Zully Hemeyer and Jon Meyer.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Less Than 5 mgd Category Runner-Up Seminole County Greenwood Lakes Water Reclamation Facility Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Less Than 5 mgd Category Honorable Mention Seminole County Yankee Lake Water Reclamation Facility Both awards accepted by Jack Cheney, Corrado Bainbridge, John Milligan, David Engstrom, and Terry McCue.

David W. York Water Reuse System of the Year Awards

Greater Than 15 mgd City of Boca Raton Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by Lauren Burack.

5 to 15 mgd City of Pompano Beach Reuse Treatment Facility Accepted by Randy Brown.

1 to Less Than 5 mgd City of Inverness Wastewater Treatment Facility Accepted by Mike Regina, John Sowka, and Eric Williams

Collection System of the Year Awards

Greater than 50,000 Connections Category City of Orlando Accepted by Chuck Shultz.

10,000 to 50,000 Connections Category Palm Bay Utilities Accepted by David Bryant.

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

Less Than 1 mgd Dunes County Development District Wastewater Treatment Facility Accepted by Timothy Sheahan.

Municipal Utility Operational Performance Excellence Awards

Greater Than 50,000 Connections Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department Accepted by Ralph Terrero.

Less Than 50,000 Connections Marion County Utilities Accepted by Doug Andrews.

Safety Awards Service Awards

Presented to Brian Houston, Leidos Engineering.

Presented to Christine Miranda,Holtz Consulting Engineers Inc.

Class A, Second Place River Oaks Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Paul Macchia.

Class A, Third Place Dale Mabry Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Eileen Johnson.

Class B, First Place Lee County Utilities Three Oaks Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Edward Ellyatt and John Hollingsworth.

Class A, Third Place Northeast Water Reclamation Facility Accepted by Rick Charles Wise, John Turner, Maress Scott, and Craven Askew.

Class B, Second Place Northeast Wastewater Treatment Facility Accepted by David Carr, Chuck Nichols, and Jason Jennings.

Class B, Third Place Palm Bay Utilities Department, Troutman Utilities Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Tim Bailey.

Presented to Doug Prentiss Sr., DPI.

Class C, Second Place Seminole Tribe of Florida Hollywood Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by John Holdman and Juan Mata.

Class C, Third Place Van Dyke Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Luke Armstrong.

George W. Burke Jr. Facility Safety Award City of Boca Raton Wastewater Treatment Plant Accepted by Jeffrey Brown.

Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

Top Ten Safety Awards Bonita Springs Utilities Inc., East Water Reclamation Facility, Clifford Morris; Northwest AWT Facility, Steve Reinhard; City of Pompano Beach Water Treatment Plant, Maria Loucraft; City of Winter Garden Wastewater Treatment Facility, Steve Santiago; Palm Coast Wastewater Treatment Facility, Rick Vester; and Sandhill Water Reclamation Facility, Alfredo Smith.

Biosolids Awards

Small Operations Bonita Springs Utilities Accepted by Clifford Morris.

Large Operations Lee County CompostingFacility Accepted by Jason Fournier and Bill Kilby.

Arthur Sidney Bedell Award

Albert B. Herndon Award

William D. Hatfield Award

Presented to Greg Chomic, Heyward Inc.

Presented to Dan Dashitaki, City of Orlando.

Presented to John Haak, Orange County Utilities.

Leroy H. Scott Award Presented to Albert Bock.

Samuel B. Willis Award City of Clearwater Accepted by Jack Sudowski, Jackie Calder, Dennis Coley, and Ben Troutman.

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

Technology Innovation and Development Village of Wellington Accepted by Bryan Gayoso and David Cipriani.

Gascoigne Wastewater Treatment Plant Operational Improvement Medal Accepted by Gary Johnson, Manjiang (MJ) Chen, and James Thurrett.

Utility Management Committee Best Practices Honorable Mention Seminole Tribe of Florida Accepted by Juan Mata, Derek Koger, and Anthony Osceola.

PASSING THE GAVEL Incoming FWEA President Kart Vaith (right) receives the ceremonial gavel from 2013-14 President Greg Chomic.

Integrated Water Resources Award Presented to Tracy Mercer.

Thomas T. Jones Award Presented to Greg Kolb, CH2M HILL.

Public Acceptance

L.L. Hedgepeth Award

Green Technologies LLC Accepted by Amir Varshovi.

Presented to Antonio Cordoso, E.I., and accepted by Gus Suarez.

Quarter Century Operators Club Presented to Darby Blanchard, City of Cocoa Beach.

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FSAWWA Awards Most Improved Class A City of Orange Garnsey Plant Accepted by Steven Miller.

Outstanding Class A Bay County Water Treatment Plant Accepted by Don Hamm.

Most Improved Class B Hillsborough County Lake Park Plant Accepted by Mark Lehigh, Kendra Phillips, Paul Kavanagh, Beth Schinella, Brian Milligan, and Kevin Kraujalis.

Outstanding Class C

Outstanding Class B

City of Winter Park Magnolia Plant Orange County Accepted by Joe Brown.

City of Clearwater ROI Pinellas County Accepted by Glen Daniel.

Most Improved Class C City of Leesburg Accepted by Sandra Janik.

Outstanding Operator Award Presented to Frederick Hemerick, City of Clearwater.

Operatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Meritorious Service Award Presented to Steve Saffels, City of Plant City.

John Lechner Award of Excellence Presented to Rick Ratcliffe, American Flow Control.

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

Pat Flanagan Award Presented to Vaughan Harshman, Evoqua Water Technologies.

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David B. Lee Award

Reclamation Presented to Mark G. Harris, Sarasota County Government.

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FWPCOA Awards

Outstanding Service Award Presented to Odis Carter.

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Award of Appreciation Presented to Tim McVeigh.

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The Water Buoys, from the City of Palm Coast, qualified for the national American Water Works Association (AWWA) Top Ops competition by winning the Florida Top Ops, held during the conference. The team took home the first-place award from this “college bowl” type event that tests each group of water treatment and distribution operators on its knowledge of system operations. The contest was emceed by Ron Cartwright and sponsored by Dumont Chemicals. Coming in second place was Drink Em Down from Pasco County Utilities. Two other teams competed: Chloramine Machine from Hillsborough City Public Utilities and Team Dyal from the Dyal Water Treatment Plant at the City of Cocoa. The national AWWA Top Ops contest will take place in Boston in June. Water utilities across the state are encouraged to enter the 23rd annual Top Ops, which will be held May 2015 during the Florida Water Resources Conference in Orlando. Teams may represent more than one utility. For more details, and to receive the competition rules, contact Scott Ruland, Top Ops chair, at sruland@deltonafl.gov.

Emcee Ron Cartwright (center at podium) starts the contest.

Above: The audience members root for their favorite teams At right: The Palm Coast Water Buoys (from left: Tom Martens, Fred Greiner, and Peter Roussell) display their plaque and trophy with their coach Jim Hogan (second from left).

Team Dyal members Cliff Miller, David Woodhouse, and Andy Newsome wait for their next question.

Kendra Phillips, Kevin Kraujalis, and Brain Milligan, members of Chloramine Machine, answer a question from the emcee.

Team captain of the second-place team, Drink Em Down, Jim Kaplan (far left), poses with members Steve Anderson, Brent Ruiz, and Vincent Domanico.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

The judges (from left: Andre Dieffenthaller, Hazen and Sawyer; Pat Allman, Odyssey Manufacturing Co.; and John Holdman, Seminole Tribe of Florida, review a team’s answer.

Methane Madness in First-Place Form

City of St. Cloud’s Methane Madness is Number One The team that came in second in last year’s Operations Challenge took home the big prize this year. Methane Madness won first place with a total score of 47, and the Rusty Pelicans team, from St. Petersburg, came in second with 38. The competition, which was held in the exhibit hall, is a skills-based contest consisting of five timed events that showcase the knowledge and expertise of wastewater treatment plant operators. The teams display their proficiency in process control, maintenance, safety, collections, and the laboratory. The process control event

includes a 25-question multiple choice test and four process control scenarios that must be completed as quickly and accurately as possible to score the most points. The laboratory section is a biochemical oxygen demand test, in a simulated format, to determine the demand a wastewater stream would have on a treatment facility. The maintenance event simulates the maintenance of a lift station, and the safety section simulates the rescue of a co-worker in a confined space. The final event addresses collections with a simulated repair and inspection of a broken sewage line.

Methane Madness team members (left to right): Chris Henderson, Jeff Hewett, Paul Spencer, Erik Dabrowski, and Marcus Fullwood.

Methane Madness won the maintenance, laboratory, collections, and safety events, while the Rusty Pelicans scored best in the process control section. With its win, St Cloud’s team qualifies for a spot at the national Operations Challenge at the Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC),

which will be held in October in New Orleans. The next Operations Challenge at FWRC will be held May 2015 in Orlando. The competition is open to teams of wastewater treatment operators from any utility in Florida. For information on entering a team, contact Chris Fasnacht, City of St. Cloud, at cfasnacht@stcloud.org.

Rusty Pelicans in Action Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

FWEA Student Design Competition: In Review Rebecca Oliva, P.E. Since 1996, the Florida Water Environment Association (FWEA) has held a friendly competition for university students to showcase their senior capstone projects. The Student Design Competition (SDC) is intended to promote real-world design experience for students interested in pursuing an education and/or a career in water engineering and sciences. The chair of the Students and Young Professionals (S&YP) Committee organizes the event and collects technical papers from student design teams. All teams are given a problem statement from their professor, mentor, or local utility and then write a report on the design alternatives and optimal solution to that problem. A panel of judges reads and scores the reports based on a numerical rubric system. The second component of the competition is a presentation at the Florida Water Resources Conference (FWRC), which showcases each team’s design in front of the panel of judges and the conference attendees. Due to the high demand and variation in topics outside general wastewater problems, an environmental category was recently added to the SDC, resulting in even greater school participation. Each team receives a participation bonus, and the winning team is awarded a scholarship to assist with travel expenses to the national competition at the Water Environment Federation’s Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC). In the past, a dinner social, brunch, and/or young professionals reception has accompanied the competition, providing networking opportunities in a relaxed atmosphere outside the pressure of the competition.

Benefits of Competition The SDC has proven to be a valuable event for students, as well as for many professionals in the water/wastewater industry. Students learn management of work distribution, communication, and technical applications of engineering concepts. They also develop and practice their writing and public speaking skills. Furthermore, the winning teams in each category get additional exposure by presenting at WEFTEC, the largest water quality exhibition in the world. The participation bonus and Norm Casey Scholarship help offset the costs of traveling to local and national compe-

titions. Professors provide oversight and mentorship to guide the students in their design, report, and presentation development. The benefit for sponsors is that their names and logos appear on featured conference materials and websites, whereby they are recognized for their financial contributions to the scholarship fund and networking events. Industry professionals, such as consultants, manufacturers, vendors, regulators, and operators, can attend the SDC and see the innovative design approaches and technical knowledge of our future leaders. This presents a mutual benefit where students can network with potential employers, and industry professionals can scout out top talent.

Competition Recap The 19th Annual Student Design Competition occurred on April 6 at the FWRC in Orlando. Student design teams representing six Florida universities competed in one of two categories: wastewater and environmental. The first event was a morning brunch, offering students the opportunity to network with industry professionals and each other. Following the brunch, the students, judges, and moderators divided into two meeting rooms for the simultaneous competitions. The student design teams who competed in the wastewater category were: Florida Atlantic University: “Advanced Wastewater Treatment for Groundwater Recharge, City of Dania Beach.” Team members: Jenna Bobsein, Robert Eustice, Cleevens Guerrier, Pollop Phonpornwithoon, Amy Sirmans, Michael Wood Florida Gulf Coast University: “Phytoremediation Methods for the Degradation of Phenolic Compounds in Wastewater.” Team members: Gilberto Gil, Sergio Guzman,

University of Miami

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Robin Palmer, Jeffrey Papner Florida International University: “Miami Dade Central District Wastewater Treatment Plant Headworks Improvements.” Team members: Melissa Cairo, Cynthia Doyon, Steve Fabian, Natalia Garcia University of South Florida: “South/ Central Hillsborough County Service Area Capital Improvements Project.” Team members: Lauren Davis, Michael Esteban, Jared Faniel, Andrew Filippi, Winsome Jackson, Herby Jean, Richard Johnson The student design teams who competed in the environmental category were: Florida State University/Florida Agriculture & Mechanical University: “Minimizing Groundwater Contamination from Dairy Farm Effluent by Use of a Constructed Wetland.” Team members: Kelly Barlet, Matthew Brooks, Jeffrey Farhood, Emanuel Odies, Lorena Sanchez University of Miami: “Advection-Diffusion Analysis and Potential Upgrade of Southeast Florida Ocean Outfalls.” Team members: Eric D. Antmann, Lucien Gassie, Sabina Rakhimbekova, Sathvika Ramaji, Raul Velarde Each category had several judges representing utilities, consulting firms, regulatory agencies, etc. The judges this year were: Stephanie Bolyard, University of Central Florida Ph.D. Candidate Charles Cullen, CDM Smith Holly Kremers, Wade Trim Suzanne Mechler, CDM Smith Chuck Olson, Neel-Schaffer Gary Revoir, Tetra Tech Genesis Rios, recent graduate Curtis Robinson, Holtz Consulting Oscar Rubio, Oscar L. Rubio & Associates

Shanin Speas-Frost, Florida Department of Environmental Portection Jason Weiss, recent graduate The students did a fantastic job on their presentations with the content, flow, and delivery. For many, this was their first time speaking in public. It was amazing to see their self-confidence grow as they communicated their technical understanding through the question-and-answer discussion with the judges. At the conclusion of the presentations portion of the SDC, the presentation and report scores were combined, tallied, and crosschecked for accuracy. Next, everyone reconvened in the same room for the SDC awards ceremony. The moderators congratulated the student design teams on their hard work and exceptional design reports, thanked the professors and judges, and then announced the winning team for each category. The University of Miami won first place in the environmental category. For the third year in a row, the University of South Florida won first place in the wastewater category. Both of these teams are now enhancing their reports and presentations for the national competition at WEFTEC, which will be held September 27– October 1 in New Orleans. As a follow-up to the competition, the design teams will receive a compilation of feedback comments from the judges on their reports and presentations. Following the awards ceremony, the judges and other volunteers spoke about their water/wastewater industry experience in a “career panel” discussion with the students. Student feedback included the comment that the open panel question-and-answer format was very beneficial for their career planning and transitioning from student life to becoming a professional in this industry. Some of the participating students had a career and family and decided to go back to school for their engi-

neering degree. Other students were interested in pursuing a master’s degree in engineering or business and sought advice in helping make their decision. The SDC activities concluded at 4 p.m., which allowed participants and guests to attend the FWRC president’s reception in the main hall. The reception provided another opportunity for students to network with industry professionals and to observe the technology showcased in the exhibition hall. The members of both winning student design teams were individually introduced and recognized on the center stage at the reception.

Looking Ahead to the 2015 Competition If your school would like to participate in the 2015 SDC, please visit the FWEA S&YP Committee website for up-to-date information on the entry forms and report submission deadlines. If you know of another college or university in Florida that may be interested in participating in next year’s competition, please have them contact me at OlivaRM@cdmsmith.com. Each school is allowed to send one team per category to the FWEA competition, but there is no limit to the number of schools that can participate. I can assist teams with identifying a mentor and project topic if needed. The more participation, the better! Sponsorships are always welcome, so if you are interested in becoming a 2015 SDC sponsor, please contact me. The next SDC will be held on May 3, 2015, in conjunction with the FWRC in Orlando.

Their innovation and technical skills will no doubt assist our industry in solving the many water environment problems facing our state and the world. We can already see the wonderful ideas that these bright, young people are contributing to our industry, and we would like them to stay involved in FWEA as they transition into their professional careers. Once again, congratulations to the two winning teams. Please join me in wishing them good luck as they compete in the national competition later this year at WEFTEC; let’s bring home a win (or two) for Florida! I would like to congratulate all the students for their hard work and preparation for this event. For more information about the competition, go to www.fwea.org/student_design_competition.php.

Thank You I would like to express my sincere appreciation to my planning team (Danielle Bertini, Yanni Polematidis, Jose Cueto, Kris Samples, Cindy LaRue, Holly Hanson, and Christine Miranda), FWEA Young Professionals Committee, students, judges, sponsors, mentors, professors, parents, spouses, FWEA board of directors, and everyone else who contributed to the 2014 SDC! Sponsorships from Advanced Drainage Systems Inc., American Pipe, Barney’s Pumps, Carollo Engineers, Carter & Ver Planck, CDM Smith, ConShield, Pure Technologies, Stantec, UF Treeo Center, and WadeTrim were greatly appreciated. Thank you for your contributions to the 2104 students and young professionals activities!

Summary The 2014 SDC was an enormous success. A variety of project topics were presented by students at schools from all over the state.

Rebecca Oliva, P.E., ENV SP, is an environmental engineer with CDM Smith in Tampa and chair of the FWEA Students and Young Professionals Committee.

University of South Florida

Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Ave Maria Utility Company Has Best Tasting Water in Florida The Ave Maria Utility Company (AMUC) won the statewide Best Tasting Drinking Water Contest on April 8 at the conference. The three taste-test judges chose the utility from 10 Florida Section AWWA regional winners. For the statewide final, each regional winner submitted a gallon of water that was collected less than 24 hours before the contest. All of the samples were tasted as room temperature to allow for any tastes or odors to be more easily detected. The emcee for the event was Richard Anderson, president of FSAWWA. The judges

The judges (from left: Rick Harmon, Carl Larrabee Jr., and Jeff Nash) discuss their ratings for the entries.

were Jeff Nash, FSAWWA director, Carl Larrabee Jr., FSAWWA chair; and Rick Harmon, editor of Florida Water Resources Journal. Ave Maria is the first utility to be named Florida’s best-tasting water twice, also having won in 2010. To advance to the state competition, AMUC won in FSAWWA Region 5, which includes utilities in Hendry, Lee, and Collier counties. This was the utility’s third time at the state championship. The utility is located in a planned community in Collier County near Naples, established by Tom Monaghan, the founder of Domino’s Pizza. Its 1.67 mil-gal-per-day

Richard Anderson emcees the contest.

water treatment plant uses membrane softening to treat water drawn from the Lower Tamiami aquifer. The plant also recently received the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Water Treatment Plant Operations Excellence Award. The utility will now compete in the national drinking water taste test that will be held at the AWWA Annual Conference and Exposition in June in Boston.

Audience members wait for the announcement of the winner.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Richard Anderson presents the contest award to Paul Cortez, with CH2M HILL, who accepted the award for the utility.

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New Members Received Into FWEA Society Following Successful Initiation Three nominees for the Florida Select Society of Sanitary Shovelers became members after completing a tongue-twisting induction exercise at the conference awards luncheon. The chair of the Society, Tom Baber, presided over the ceremony where Pat Allman, Richard Griswold, and Christine Miranda received their cer-

At left: Tom Baber explains the rules of initiation.

Below: Baber (far right) poses with new inductees Christine Miranda, Pat Allman, and Richard Griswold.

tificates as members of the Class of 2014. The new members also received the coveted Silver Shovel pin. The Society, which was founded in 1956, annually recognizes wastewater industry professionals for meritorious service above and beyond the call of duty to the Florida Water Environment Association.

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Fundraiser Promotes Awareness for Water For People and Its Goals for Clean Water

Barika Poole The recent Florida Water Resources Conference (FWRC) served as a great platform to raise awareness and highlight the work of Water For People. In the midst of learning about innovative water and wastewater treatment processes and solutions for our applications, we also took the time to raise awareness and funds to help Water For People bring clean water and sanitation throughout the developing world. Through Water For People’s “Everyone Forever” initiative, the organization is striving to assist regions and communities in developing countries through a creative, collaborative process to institute sustainable solutions for safe water and sanitation systems. At Water For People the goal is simple, bold, and achievable: The organization will not stop until every family, every school, and every clinic has water and sanitation coverage—not only for today, tomorrow, or next week—but forever.

world. This year, a 50/50 raffle fundraiser was conducted, where 50 percent of the funds raised were donated to Water For People and the other 50 percent was awarded to the raffle winner. This year, $1,090 was raised in the 50/50 raffle, with $545 going to Water For People and the other half awarded to Greg Chomic, the winner of the raffle. As an added bonus, Jennie Evans won a Disney gift basket donated by the Disney Coronado Springs Resort, which is where the FWRC has held. The Florida Water For People Committee appreciates the support from everyone who contributed, volunteered, visited the Water For People booth, and participated in the raffle.

Raffle Fundraiser The Water For People fundraiser at FWRC raised money that supports Water For People’s mission to bring clean drinking water and sanitation to thousands of people who lack these services in the developing

Water For People Committee members Christine Ellenberger and Grace Johns select the winner of the 50/50 raffle.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Volunteers The Committee was fortunate to have the support of many individuals who not only volunteered their time to staff the Water For People booth, but also shared the significance of the organization’s work with those who stopped by. Based on the support during the conference, we can proudly say that nearly 50 hours were donated by energetic volunteers. The volunteers included Juan Aceituno, Steve and Terrie Soltau, Bill Young, Shelby Hughes, Marjorie Craig, Sheila Guevara, Holly Kremers, Debbie Bradshaw, Grace Johns, Jose Cueto, Christine Ellenberger, Mike Cliburn, and myself. The committee invites you to consider volunteering your time for the Water For People fundraiser at the FSAWWA Fall Conference in December. We encourage you to become active and involved at the local level with Water For People and help us keep safe water flowing to many more communities! For more information on how to become involved in your region, please contact me at barika.poole@gmail.com, or to learn more about Water For People, visit www.waterforpeople.org. Barika Poole is the chair of the Florida Water For People Committee.

Jennie Evans accepts her Disney gift basket from Christine Ellenberger.

FSAWWA SPEAKING OUT

What Was Your Path Into the Water Industry? Carl R. Larrabee Jr. Chair, FSAWWA

ow did you get into this business anyhow? That’s the question of the month and one that we might ask ourselves—and each other. I think the answers could generate some interesting conversations. They could also provide some insight into how we’ll find “new blood” to enter our profession in the years to come. I haven’t met anyone who wanted to be a water professional when he or she was growing up. Back when I was a kid, policeman and fireman had monopolies over the six-year-old boys I knew. I think many little girls at that age dreamed of becoming nurses or mommies. Somewhere along the line, though, each of us found a path that led into a job that provided water to the public. My path started right after college. I wanted to go into engineering consulting. My bachelor’s and master’s degrees were in civil engineering and environmental sciences (CEES). I graduated from the University of Central Florida (UCF), which was then called Florida Technological University. Once I got my degree and sent out resumes, I waited for the offers to come flooding in. Flooding in? I waited. . .and waited. Somebody, anybody? I think in the first four months I interviewed twice. The year was 1977 and the country was in a bit of a recession. The EPA was at the tail end of giving out 70 and 80 percent grants for wastewater treatment plants (could you imagine that today?). Engineering firms were being cautious to take on new employees and hoping to keep enough work coming in to avoid losing the ones they had. Five months after graduation, I received a call from the secretary of my student advisor and mentor, Dr. Yousef A. Yousef. He had received a call from the Cocoa Utilities Director, Bill Stephenson, asking if they knew of any re-

cent graduates of their CEES program looking for work. They thought of me. When I received the call, my first thought was gratitude, but then it quickly turned to disappointment because I didn’t want to work for a municipality—I wanted to work for an engineering consulting firm. Eventually I arrived at the point of acceptance and decided that I would request an interview. Why not? I thought. It’ll be a good interviewing experience. Besides, not going would be wrong. Ingratitude was not an intentional practice of mine. I made the appointment and headed over to meet with Mr. Stephenson and was completely relaxed. No pressure; I didn’t want this job anyway. I figured I’d meet with him and hone my interviewing skills for the future. From the time I arrived, I felt so comfortable with this man and this utility. We reminisced about common professors (he had graduated from UCF a few years earlier). I was introduced to members of the engineering staff. I was shown where my office would be. Before I left, Mr. Stephenson offered me the job and then asked if I had any other leads. I said that I did. (I really did—an interview with a local engineering firm hadn’t committed one way or the other.) I expressed my appreciation and told him I would be back in touch in a day or two. The next day I arranged to meet with a vice president of the engineering firm. He told me they’d like to hire me, but couldn’t justify another

person right now. “Do you have any other job prospects?” he asked me. I responded that I would probably accept a position as the utilities/public works engineer for the City of Cocoa. Immediately I was told, “If we can be of any service, please let us know!” I didn’t fully comprehend what that meant at the time. I did figure it out a little later. Mr. Stephenson told me to call him Bill. His fifteen extra years of life experience and my parents’ instruction to show respect to my elders made that transition very difficult. That was the beginning of an enriching work experience that continued to his retirement in 1995 and beyond as we share a lasting friendship today. The path into and throughout that experience with a municipal utility was extraordinary, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. What a blessing for 33 years. I’m now two neat years into working with the St. Johns River Water Management District—but that’s another story! I hope that many of you take the time to recall your path into our profession. I hope you ask your co-workers how they managed to get where they are. I think you’ll find it fascinating and insightful, so please make the effort. This exercise could also help us to think about how we can get students and young people just starting out to consider entering the water profession. If you’re so inclined, put your account in writing and share it with us at FSAWWA headquarters at fsawwa@gmail.com. We’d love to read them.

Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Vaith Takes Office as 2014-2015 FWEA President Kart Vaith has begun his term as president of the Florida Water Environment Association (FWEA), following his election at the Association’s annual meeting on April 8. Vaith is executive vice president with Constantine Engineering Inc. and is a principal with the company. He has more than 25 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry, including master planning of water systems, design and construction of water and wastewater infrastructure, and implementation of design-build projects. Vaith has been active in FWEA since the

2014-2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

John A. Giachino WEF Delegate

Paul Pinault WEF Delegate

mid-90s and has been involved with the West Coast Chapter and the First Coast Chapter. This is his third term as the organization’s president and he has served two terms as treasurer. He was active in the formation of the Utility Council and in the changing of the bylaws in 2006 to reorganize the FWEA board of directors and its functions. He has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering with an environmental focus from the Indian Institute of Technology BHU and a master’s degree in chemical engineering from Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Mich.

Raynetta Curry Marshall President Elect

Lisa Prieto Vice President

Amber M. Batson Secretary/Treasurer

Greg Chomic Past President

Ron R. Cavalieri Director at Large

Kristiana Dragash Director at Large

Tim Harley Director at Large

Sondra Lee Director at Large

Patrick Karney Executive Director

Karen Wallace Executive Manager

Photo Not Available

Alexandra Terral Director at Large

James Wallace Director at Large

Brian Wheeler Utility Council President

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Bradley Hayes Operations Council Representative

2014-2015 FWEA Officers, Chairs, and Advisors The following officers, directors, committee chairs, chapter chairs, and student chapter advisors began their terms at the FWEA annual meeting on April 8. BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Kartik Vaith, P.E. The Constantine Group 904-562-2185 kvaith@tcgeng.com PRESIDENT ELECT Raynetta Curry Marshall, P.E. JEA 904-665-7613 marsrc@jea.com VICE PRESIDENT Lisa Prieto, P.E. AMEC 407-253-6528 lisa.prieto@amec.com SECRETARY/TREASURER Amber M. Batson, P.E. 561-601-2456 fwea.batson@gmail.com PAST PRESIDENT Greg Chomic Heyward Inc. 407-628-1880 gchomic@heywardfl.com WEF DELEGATE John A. Giachino Haskell 904-791-4543 john.giachino@haskell.com WEF DELEGATE Paul Pinault, P.E. CDM Smith 239-938-9600 PinaultP@cdmsmith.com DIRECTOR AT LARGE Ron Cavalieri, P.E. AECOM Technical Services Inc. 239-278-7996 Ronald.cavalieri@aecom.com

DIRECTOR AT LARGE Kristiana Dragash, P.E. Carollo Engineers Inc. 941-371-9832 kdragash@carollo.com DIRECTOR AT LARGE Tim Harley, P.E. St. Johns County Utility Department 904-209-2626 tharley@sjcfl.us DIRECTOR AT LARGE Sondra Lee City of Tallahassee 850-891-1237 Sondra.Lee@talgov.com DIRECTOR AT LARGE Alexandra Terral. P.E. AECOM 813-630-2500 alex.terral@aecom.com DIRECTOR AT LARGE James Wallace, P.E. Jacobs Engineering Group 904-636-5432 jamey.wallace@jacobs.com UTILITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT Brian Wheeler, P.E. Toho Water Authority 407-518-2251 bwheeler@tohowater.org OPERATIONS COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE Bradley Hayes City of Tavares 325-742-6485 bhayes@tavares.org EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Patrick Karney, P.E. 904-923-7563 ptkarney@gmail.com EXECUTIVE MANAGER Karen Wallace 407-574-3318 admin@fwea.org

COMMITTEE CHAIRS AIR QUALITY Larry Hickey Equipment Plus Solutions Inc. 352-237-1869 larry.hickey@equipmentplusinc.com AWARDS Nicole Quinby, P.E. Black & Veatch 407-419-3584 quinbyn@bv.com BIOSOLIDS Christian Collins Manatee County Biosolids 941-792-8811 ext. 8025 chris.collins@mymanatee.org COLLECTION SYSTEMS Rudy Fernandez, P.E. Parsons Brinckerhoff 407-413-0481 Fernandez@pbworld.com EXECUTIVE ADVISORY COUNCIL Mike Cliburn AECOM 407-513-8242 mcliburn@aecom.com INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCES Jason Christopherson, P.E., CFM Geosyntec Consultants Inc. 321-249-9359 Jchristopherson@Geosyntec.com MEMBERSHIP ACTION TEAM Lisa Prieto, P.E. AMEC 407-253-6528 lisa.prieto@amec.com OPERATIONS CHALLENGE Chris Fasnacht City of St. Cloud 407-957-7104 cfasnacht@stcloud.org

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PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH Julianna LaRock South Florida Water Management District 561-682-6747 jlarock@sfwmd.gov MEMBER RELATIONS Suzanne Mechler CDM Smith 561-689-3336 MechlerSE@cdmsmith.com WATER REUSE Shanin Speas-Frost Florida Department of Environmental Protection Shanin.speasfrost@dep.state.fl.us SAFETY AND SECURITY Judd Mooso Destin Water Users Inc. 850-337-3915 jmooso@dwvinc.com SEMINARS Greg Chomic Heyward Inc. 407-628-1880 gchomic@heywardfl.com STRATEGIC PLANNING Colleen Smith Ssrcx 727-735-3397 csmith@ssr-inc.com STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Rebecca Oliva, P.E., ENV SP CDM Smith 813-262-8833 OlivaRM@cdmsmith.com TRAINING AND CONTINUING EDUCATION Kenneth Blanton, P.E. Black & Veatch 407-419-3500 BlantonKM@bv.com

CHAPTER CHAIRS

STUDENT CHAPTER ADVISORS

BIG BEND Anthony Holley Jim Stidham & Associates Inc. 850-222-3975 tholley@jsna.com

FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY Dr. Daniel Meeroff 561-297-3099 dmeeroff@fau.edu

CENTRAL FLORIDA Greg Kolb, P.E. CH2M Hill 407-650-2151 gkolb@ch2m.com FIRST COAST Yanni Polematidis, P.E. CDM Smith 904-527-6722 polematidisim@cdmsmith.com MANASOTA Lindsay Marten Stantec 941-225-6178 Lindsay.Marten@stantec.com SOUTHEAST Wisler Pierre-Louis North Miami 305-895-9838 pwisler@northmiamifl.gov SOUTHWEST Isaac Holowell Algenol Biofuels 239-690-7620 iholowell@algenol.com TREASURE COAST Christine Miranda, P.E. Holtz Consulting Engineers Inc. 561-575-2009 Christine.Miranda@holtzconsulting.com WEST COAST Juan R. Oquendo, P.E. Gresham, Smith and Partners 813-251-6838 juan_oquendo@gspnet.com

UTILITIES MANAGEMENT Open WASTEWATER PROCESS Jody Barksdale, P.E. Gresham Smith & Partners 813-769-8948 jody_barksdale@gspnet.com

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Dr. Fred Bloetscher 561-297-0744 fbloetsc@fau.edu FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY Dr. Zhonghong Tang 305-348-3046 zhonghong.tang@fiu.edu UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA Dr. Steven Duranceau 407-823-1440 steven.duranceau@ucf.edu UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA Dr. John Sansalone 352-281-5806 jsansal@ufl.edu UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI Dr. Antonio Nanni 305-284-3461 nanni@umiami.edu Dr. James Englehardt 305-284-5557 jenglehardt@umiami.edu UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA Dr. Chris Brown 904-620-2811 Christopher.j.brown@unf.edu UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA Dr. Sarina Ergas 813-974-2275 sergas@usf.edu FAMU/FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY Dr. Gang Chen 850-410-6303 gchen@eng.fsu.edu FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY Dr. Simeon Komisar 239-590-1315 skomisar@fgcu.edu

Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

FWEA FOCUS

Priorities for the Future Kart Vaith President, FWEA n April 8, I was deeply honored to be nominated and voted in as the president of the Florida Water Environment Association (FWEA) for the third time in the last eight years. I was asked to serve as a result of two board members (Brian Houston and Joe Cheatham) seeking a leave of absence from the FWEA board of directors for personal reasons. For those of you who know Brian and Joe, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. The first two times I was president of FWEA, the economy was at its peak and our seminars and meetings were extremely well attended. Also, it seemed to me that the volunteer force included all sectors of our water industry. Our volunteers were eager and willing to spend a lot of their time advancing FWEA’s priorities. As Gen Xers and Gen Yers have grown in number in our organization, and as utility participation in our volunteer force has waned, I thought it appropriate to reassess our volunteer participation in setting priorities for my term. As a result of my discussions with many of you, and the members of the FWEA board, I believe that the following priorities need to be advanced in 2014: 1. Clear vision for the next six to eight years, with goals and metrics centered around that vision. 2. Integration of more Gen Xers and Gen Yers into our mix. 3. Inclusion of more members of the utility community into our mix. 4. Operating the FWEA well and in a manner that sustains our long-term viability and growth.

For the visioning effort, it is my intent to meet with as many FWEA members as I can, and to seek your input before the FWEA board meets this fall to develop its vision, with supporting goals and metrics, through 2020. I invite each of you reading this column to email your thoughts on this subject to me at kvaith@tcgeng.com. I will respond to every email that I receive and I thank you for your input in advance. Your emails will tell me how many of you are actually read-

ing this column and what my future columns may need to address! I also encourage you to contact any member of the FWEA board (see the FWEA organizational chart for 20142015 at www.fwea.org) with suggestions on how to improve our Association or how to get more involved. Integrating Gen Xers and Gen Yers into our fold will require us to first know who they are. As a 25-year veteran of this industry, I must admit I had to get some help on this topic. The bottom line was that these young people understand how to live life to the fullest. To allow our Association to get with the times, we are now on social media and I encourage you to “Like” our page at www.facebook.com/cleanwaterfl. Some of us old timers must honor the need for these new generations to pursue their own interests by demanding only what is necessary in their volunteer time. In other words, ask only for what’s needed and get it done once—and correctly—so that needless iterative work is eliminated. I understand that nothing frustrates the Gen X and Gen Y folks more! To preserve their work-life balance, we may have to seek additional staff support for FWEA. This is a topic that the FWEA board will take up at its June 4 meeting. The next priority is to encourage more members of the utility community to become active FWEA volunteers. While the FWEA Utility Council volunteers play a vital role in educating policy makers and rule makers, we will encourage the participation of both the FWEA Utility Council and FWEA non-Utility Council members in FWEA’s volunteer force. We also understand that senior utility members have numerous other priorities that may prevent them from committing time to volunteering for FWEA.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Therefore, to encourage more utility participation in our volunteers, we have to consider more staff support, as with the Gen X and Gen Y participation! Further, utility members (like the rest of us) want to see more value from their participation. To increase the value of our Association to utilities, we will ask some of our committees to prepare and compile relevant information that will be made available to them. For example, this year I will work with the Utility Management Committee chair and the Association’s director at large, Jamey Wallace, to develop benchmarking metrics for 10 to15 utilities, including small, midsize, and large utilities. We will then circulate this information so that relevant Florida benchmarking metrics become available to our utility members, which in turn, will foster their participation in FWEA. I would like to plan other similar initiatives and invite your thoughts and ideas, so please email me. My last priority is to operate the Association well and in a manner that sustains our long-term viability and growth. To that end, we must revisit our constitution, bylaws, and policies and procedures. Roles and responsibilities, along with the “rules of the road” for operating the Association, must be clearly and simply defined. I have asked former FWEA President Don Munksgaard to lead a new initiative to compile this information and work to update and streamline the documents. I hope that this, in turn, will make operating the Association easier. Long-term viability requires that we be financially strong! Increasing staff support may also require a greater level of investment. This will require us to make all of our events profitable, while keeping our finances and financial reporting transparent to our members. We will also seek to identify other sources of revenue at the FWEA board meetings, and once again, I invite your comments! I trust that these priorities provide you all with a clear idea of the path that I seek for my term. I am eager to receive your feedback. With your support, I am sure that the 2014-2015 term will be a banner year for FWEA.

Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

Certification Boulevard Test Your Knowledge of Residuals Management

Roy Pelletier 1. What is the main concept of sludge dewatering? A. B. C. D.

To increase total solids concentration. To decrease total solids concentration. To reduce the volatile content. To convert suspended solids into settleable solids.

2. Which statement basically describes a gravity belt thickener (GBT)? A. The bottom half of a belt filter press. B. The top half of a belt filter press. C. A machine that does not resemble a belt filter press. D. A machine that stabilizes waste activated sludge (WAS).

6. Given the following data, and using the VanKleek formula, what is the percent volatile solids reduction in this anaerobic digester? · Feed sludge total solids = 3.4 percent · Feed sludge volatile solids = 2.7 percent · Digested sludge out total solids = 2.4 percent · Digested sludge out volatile solids = 1.7 percent A. 40.1 percent C. 34.5 percent

B. 37.1 percent D. 47.1 percent

7. Carbon dioxide is a common byproduct in an aerobic digester. If carbon dioxide is trapped, it will tend to: A. B. C. D.

Increase the pH. Decrease the pH. Neutralize the pH It has no effect at all on pH.

8. Given the following data, what is the volume of this digester? · Digester tank diameter is 75 ft · Digester depth is 24 ft to overflow · Digester sludge feed rate is 125 gal per min (gpm) for 8 hrs/day A. 1,125,147 gals C. 3,170,772 gals

9. Which process modifications may help resolve a condition of massive white foam and low pH in an aerobic digester? A. Increase the sludge feed rate. B. Increase the air supply and increase the dissolved oxygen (DO). C. Decrease the digester solid retention time (SRT). D. Decrease the air supply and decrease the DO. 10. A properly operated anaerobic digester will have a volatile solids reduction of about 20 to 30 percent. A. True

3. Which adjustment will normally decrease the size of floc particles exiting an inline venturi mixer of a belt filter press?

A. B. C. D.

To clean the chicanes. To clean the venturi mixer. To clean the belts. To backflush the hydraulic pump.

5. What is the hydraulic retention time (HRT), in days, of an aerobic digester given the following data: · 75 ft diameter tank · 20 ft deep · Digester sludge feed 15,500 gal per day (gpd) · Tank depth averaged 85 percent full during calculation period A. 62.6 days C. 23.5 days

B. 31.3 days D. 36.2 days

B. False

Answers on page 59

LOOKING FOR ANSWERS?

A. Open the venturi mixer. B. Close the venturi mixer. C. Place a second venturi mixer into service. D. The venturi mixer has nothing to do with floc size. 4. What is the purpose for the washwater nozzles on a belt filter press?

B. 792,693 gals D. 157,045 gals

Check the Archives Are you new to the water and wastewater field? Want to boost your knowledge about topics youʼll face each day as a water/wastewater professional? All past editions of Certification Boulevard through the year 2000 are available on the Florida Water Environment Associationʼs website at www.fwea.org. Click the “Site Map” button on the home page, then scroll down to the Certification Boulevard Archives, located below the Operations Research Committee.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS Readers are welcome to submit questions or exercises on water or wastewater treatment plant operations for publication in Certification Boulevard. Send your question (with the answer) or your exercise (with the solution) by email to roy.pelletier@cityoforlando.net, or by mail to: Roy Pelletier Wastewater Project Consultant City of Orlando Public Works Department Environmental Services Wastewater Division 5100 L.B. McLeod Road Orlando, FL 32811 407-716-2971

C FACTOR

A Big Presence at a Big Conference Jeff Poteet President, FWPCOA

n April I had the pleasure of attending the Florida Water Resources Conference (FWRC). Holly Hanson and her team really did an outstanding job and the conference seems to keep getting better and better! Almost 2,400 people attended the show (including many FWPCOA members) and there were a record number of vendor booths. I am already excited about next year’s event and I look forward to seeing all of you there. There are a few FWPCOA volunteers who I would like to thank for their part in the conference events. First there is Alfred (Al) Monteleone and his beautiful bride, Debbie. As always, Al and Debbie were instrumental in setting up and manning the FWPCOA booth. Staffing the booth with Al and Debbie were Tim & Terry McVeigh, Janet DeBiasio, and Renee Moticker (I apologize if I left anyone out). They all did an outstanding job representing the Associa-

tion and giving out memorabilia to those who stopped by the booth (I scored a really nice FWPCOA coffee mug!). The FWPCOA had two workshops at FWRC: “Chloramination: Doing it Right” and “Leveraging GIS for Finding Lost Revenue.” I had the pleasure of moderating both sessions. The chloramination workshop was taught by Chris Hill with ARCADIS, John Potts from Kimberly-Horn, and Kenny William with The Dumont Company. They did an outstanding job explaining the use of chloramines to disinfect drinking water and the methods for optimizing the chloramination process at the treatment plant. Our very own webmaster, Walt Smyser, taught the geographical information systems (GIS) workshop, where he gave us all a better understanding of the capabilities available from using GIS. Walt’s presentation showed us a direct correlation to identifying lost revenue sources by integrating information on properties with customers. An awesome job was done by all!

What the Heck are Biosolids? Processed wastewater solids that have met specific criteria and are suitable for land

application are commonly referred to as biosolids. Although the term is still relatively new, it seems to have been embraced by the industry. The theme of this month’s magazine is biosolids management—so let’s talk biosolids! The nutrient rich organic product of wastewater treatment, biosolids is a resource that will keep growing with every flush! The use of biosolids enables us to return valuable nutrients and carbon to the land, enriching soils to keep them productive and healthy! Although the general public isn’t as giddy as I am about biosolids, the fact is that they are a valuable resource for our communities. Biosolids has several applications: fertilizer, soil conditioner, and composting to name a few. There are many communities that partner with private companies to manage locally generated biosolids in a more environmentally and fiscally responsible way. Biosolids are simply another resource that can benefit the communities that we serve. There is a wealth of information on biosolids management on the World Wide Web. For more information on biosolids management get out your board and start surfing!

Spring Short School FIGURE 1. – SPRING SHORT SCHOOL EXAM SUMMARY – ......................................................................Exams ..........Passing Class ..............................................................Taken ............Percentage Backflow Repair ..................................................6 ......................100 Backflow Tester ....................................................15 ....................93 Backflow Tester Re-Certification..........................16 ....................62.5 Reclaimed Water Distribution “C” ........................7 ......................100 Stormwater “A” ....................................................7 ......................100 Stormwater “C” ....................................................18 ....................61 Utilities Maintenance “C” ....................................19 ....................100 Water Distribution “1” ..........................................7 ......................100 Water Distribution “2” ..........................................12 ....................75 Water Distribution “3” ..........................................30 ....................63 Wastewater Collection “A” ..................................29 ....................72.4 Wastewater Collection “B” ..................................20 ....................90 Wastewater Collection “C” ..................................28 ....................89 Facilities Management ........................................7 ......................No exam Wastewater Optimization ....................................14 ....................No exam

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Our FWPCOA Spring Short School held at Indian River State College in Fort Pierce on March 24–28 was a tremendous success. We offered 13 separate classes and had 235 students in attendance. There were 209 exams administered on March 28th. The overall passing rate for the exams was 80.4 percent, and the breakdown per class in listed in the Figure 1. We all owe our faithful and dedicated instructors, who for the most part volunteer their time to instruct these classes, a big thank you. The passing percentages truly indicate their professionalism and expertise. We continue to emphasize to all utilities around the state to “send us your personnel and we will return to you a better trained and knowledgeable employee.” Our next board of directors meeting will be held in St. Petersburg on June 7. We are working on doing something special at that meeting. I hope to see you there!

Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

F W R J

Waste Activated Sludge Pretreatment to Boost Volatile Solids Reduction and Digester Gas Production: Market and Technology Assessment J. Hunter Long and C. Michael Bullard tabilized biosolids from the wastewater treatment process have three primary disposal alternatives: land application, landfilling, and incineration. Tightening regulations related to residuals incineration, reduced landfill capacity, and increasingly stringent nutrient management and control requirements for land application have led to increasing costs for biosolids disposal in each of the primary biosolids management avenues. Additionally, lower total nitrogen effluent limits are increasing the required liquid treatment activated sludge age, which leads to a decrease in activated sludge degradability during final stabilization via digestion. In response to the rise in biosolids disposal cost and decreasing sludge degradability during digestion, an increasing number of wastewater treatment plants are evaluating sludge minimization technologies to reduce final poststabilization biosolids mass. Three biosolids minimization options available are: minimizing activated sludge production by targeting the activated sludge process; increasing the bioavailability and degradability of waste activated sludge (WAS) through anaerobic digestion pretreatment; and enhanced anaerobic digestion, such as temperature-phased, thermophilic, or acid/gas phase digestion. The WAS pretreatment may be the alternative of choice for many wastewater treat-

ment facilities (WWTFs) because WAS pretreatment systems may be retrofitted to an existing anaerobic digestion process with minimal change or interruption to the overall plant process. During the past decade, a number of WAS pretreatment technologies have been developed to increase volatile solids destruction, increase biogas production, decrease the mass of stabilized biosolids, and increase the capacity of the anaerobic treatment process. Generally, WAS has a much lower volatile solids reduction (VSR) in anaerobic digestion than primary sludge (PS). The WAS pretreatment technologies will improve the volatile solids reduction and have the potential to significantly decrease the amount of residual biosolids and increase biogas production. The reduced disposal cost of biosolids and the potential savings for generating heat or electricity offsets from the additional biogas may exceed the operational cost of WAS pretreatment, resulting in a net economic benefit to the wastewater treatment plant. Additionally, the increased volatile solids destruction may reduce the capacity requirement for anaerobic digestion, allowing plants to avoid or delay costly anaerobic digestion expansion projects. Some WAS pretreatment technologies have led to improved digested sludge dewaterability and reduced polymer demand, resulting in additional economic benefits.

J. Hunter Long is principal engineer and C. Michael Bullard is vice president with Hazen and Sawyer in Raleigh, N.C.

Anaerobic digestion of WAS is generally hydrolysis-rate-limited and many pretreatment technologies focus on increasing the rate of hydrolysis through floc disintegration and cell lysis. The WAS pretreatment may employ thermal, chemical, mechanical, electrical, or ultrasound, or a combination of these processes to achieve these objectives. It is important to consider multiple treatment technologies and to weigh the relative, and sometimes site-specific, advantages and disadvantages of each technology. Over the past decade, WAS pretreatment technologies have been more widely implemented throughout Europe; however, a number of recent full-scale tests have shown positive results at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) within the United States. It is expected that WAS pretreatment will see increased implementation within the U.S. over the next few years. This study consists of a literature review of peer-reviewed journal articles, as well as conference proceedings, and concludes with two recent case studies, one of which is highlighted here. The purpose of the study is to summarize the qualitative and quantitative results of WAS pretreatment full-, pilot-, and laboratory-scale installations, summarize the mechanism of each technology, and discuss the relative performance of various WAS pretreatment technologies.

Waste Activated Sludge Pretreatment Technologies

Figure 1. Extent of Hydrolysis

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

Overview The WAS pretreatment technologies can be divided into two main categories: low-intensity and high-intensity processes. Low-intensity processes increase the anaerobic digestion rate, while high-intensity processes increase both the extent and rate of anaerobic Continued on page 46

Florida Water & Pollution Control Operators Association

FWPCOA STATE SHORT SCHOOL August 11-15, 2014

Indian River State College - Main Campus – FORT PIERCE –

COURSES Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester ..........................$375/$405

Utility Customer Relations I, II & III................................$260/$290

Backflow Prevention Assembly Repairer ......................$275/$305

Utilities Maintenance ....................................................$225/$255

Backflow Tester Recertification ......................................$85/$115

Wastewater Collection System Operator C, B & A ......$225/$255

Basic Electrical and Instrumentation ............................$225/$255

Water Distribution System Operator Level 3, 2 & 1 ......$225/$255

Facility Management Module I......................................$275/$305

Wastewater Process Control ........................................$225/$255

Reclaimed Water Distribution C, B & A ........................$225/$255 (Abbreviated Course) ................................................$125/$155

Wastewater Sampling for Industrial Pretreatment & Operators................................................................$160/$190

Stormwater Management C & B ...................................$260/$290

Wastewater Troubleshooting ........................................$225/$255

Stormwater Management A .........................................$275/$305

Water Troubleshooting ..................................................$225/$255

For further information on the school, including course registration forms and hotels, download the school announcement at www.fwpcoa.org/fwpcoaFiles/upload/2014FallSchool.pdf

SCHEDULE CHECK-IN: August 10, 2014 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. CLASSES: Monday – Thursday........8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday........8:00 a.m. to noon

FREE AWARDS LUNCHEON + Wednesday, August 13, 11:30 a.m. + 3209 Virginia Avenue Fort Pierce, FL 34981

For more information call the

FWPCOA Training Office 321-383-9690 Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Continued from page 44 digestion. The anaerobic digestion rate may be increased by increasing the rate of hydrolysis (rate limiting step) through floc disintegration and/or cell lysis. The extent of anaerobic digestion may be increased by converting nonbiodegradable chemical oxygen demand (COD) to biodegradable COD. This is done by means of significant cell lysis. Figure 1 shows that low-intensity WAS pretreatment processes, which increase the rate of hydrolysis, will have a much more significant effect on anaerobic digesters with low solids retention time (SRT). Figure 2 shows that increasing the extent of anaerobic digestion will cause a similar increase in digestion regardless of the digester SRT. Thermal Pretreatment Technologies Thermal hydrolysis has been implemented at over 20 wastewater treatment plants worldwide. The two main thermal hydrolysis technology providers are CAMBITM and Veolia Water (KRÜGERTM). The CAMBI’s thermal hydrolysis process (THP) is a batch process that is comparable to Veolia Water’s BIOTHELYSTM process. Both processes use a combination of high pressure and heat to cause cell lysis and increase the rate of hydrolysis prior to mesophilic or thermophilic anaerobic digestion. The CAMBI process consists of three stages: 1. Raw sludge is heated to ~97°C for a retention time of ~1.5 hours (pulper). 2. Heated sludge is fed to the reactor vessel where the temperature is increased to ~ 165°C and the pressure is increased to 6-10 bar (87–145 pounds per sq in. [psi]) for approximately 20 minutes (reactor). 3. The treated sludge passes to another vessel where temperature is reduced to 102°C with ~1.5 hour retention time (flash tank).

The thermally hydrolyzed sludge may then pass through a heat exchanger to provide heat for the influent sludge and reduce the temperature of the effluent sludge for thermophilic (~50°C) or mesophilic (~35°C) anaerobic digestion. The BIO-THELYS process is similar to the CAMBI process with the exception that the BIO-THELYS system has two vessels of the same size and function and does not require a separate pulper and flash tank. Thermal hydrolysis has been reported to increase volatile solids destruction by 10-50 percent and increase biogas production by 10-50 percent, with an average increase of 25 percent compared to mesophilic anaerobic digestion without thermal hydrolysis pretreatment. Additional benefits of thermal hydrolysis include Class A biosolid product, increased digester capacity, improved dewaterability, and elimination of digester foaming. One of the main disadvantages is that the system is very complex and will require a high level of operator training to operate the high temperature and pressure vessels, in addition to requiring regulatory inspections and approved maintenance. Additionally, thermal hydrolysis will increase the soluble inert fraction and may significantly increase the nutrient and soluble inert loading on the dewatering recycle stream. As a rule of thumb, one-third of the COD in the dewatering liquor is refractory COD, meaning that a portion of the COD will show up in COD tests as being chemically oxidizable, but will not be readily biodegradable. Thermal hydrolysis requires a large amount of energy input and site-specific data would need to be analyzed to determine if the decrease in solids production and increase in digester gas would outweigh the operations cost. Thermal hydrolysis pretreated sludge will have a reduced digester volume requirement, and in some cases, adding thermal hydrolysis to increase digester capacity may be more cost-ef-

Figure 2. Volatile Solids Reduction

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

fective than building additional anaerobic digesters (Wilson et al, 2008; Hunt et al, 2009; Shea 2009; Sandino and Whitlock 2010; Veoliawaterst.com; Cambi.no) The KRÜGER offers a continuous flowthrough thermal hydrolysis treatment process under the trade name EXELYSTM. This process uses the same principles and mechanisms of the batch thermal hydrolysis process, but can be operated at a higher percent (≥ 25 percent) of dry solids (DS) compared with the batch process (16-17 percent), reducing the process heat demand. The EXELYS system may be added upstream of mesophilic or thermophilic digestion, or a Digestion-Lysis-Digestion (DLDTM) configuration may be used in which the EXELYS is located between two digesters operated in series. To date, there has only been one full-scale installation, at a wastewater treatment plant in Denmark, and the DLD configuration has resulted in a 30 percent increase in biogas production and a 25 percent reduction in biosolids (Kline et al, 2011; Krugerusa.com). Chemical Pretreatment Technologies Chemical pretreatment can serve one of two main purposes. Chemicals such as ozone or hydrogen peroxide may be added to activated sludge to increase sludge destruction through floc disintegration, solubilization, and the oxidation of the released organics into carbon dioxide (Yeom et al, 2002; Carrére et al, 2010). Chemical oxidation will reduce total sludge mass, but may not provide the added benefit of increased digester gas production in the anaerobic digestion process. Alkali treatment is another chemical pretreatment that is often used as a preliminary step to weaken the cell walls and reduce viscosity before thermal or mechanical treatment. Sodium and potassium hydroxide (NaOH, KOH) are the most common alkali treatment chemicals, but magnesium or calcium hydroxide (Mg[OH])2, Ca[OH]2) may also be used (Carrére et al, 2010). The MicroSludgeTM system combines chemical and mechanical treatment. The process utilizes an alkali (NaOH) conditioning step, followed by a sudden pressure drop from 12,000 to 50 psi to cause cell membranes to tear apart. One of the benefits of the MicroSludge system is that it may be easily retrofitted to an existing anaerobic digestion process and it is not as complex as the thermal hydrolysis process. MicroSludge has also been reported to reduce digester foaming, odor, and sludge viscosity. Some of the disadvantages are that it has not shown large improvements in digesters operated at or above 20-day hydraulic retention time (HRT) and it requires chemicals (NaOH). There have been at least three full-scale tests, including the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant

in Carson, Calif.; Chilliwack WWTP near Vancouver, B.C.; and the Des Moines Water Reclamation Facility in Des Moines, Iowa. The results of full- and pilot-scale tests varied by location and are summarized as follows (Stephenson et al, 2005; Roxburgh et al, 2006; Gary et al, 2007; Sandino et al, 2010; microsludge.com): Des Moines, Iowa o Full-scale digesters did not provide conclusive data because of variation in digester feeding o 10-16 percent increase in biogas production in pilot-scale reactors Carson, Calif. o Increased volatile solids destruction from 54 to 57 percent o Increased digester gas by less than 5 percent o Determined not to be cost-effective Vancouver, B.C. o Volatile solids destruction increased from 60 to 70-90 percent Mechanical Pretreatment Technologies Mechanical WAS pretreatment technologies rely on mechanical shearing, pressure change, and cavitation to induce activated sludge floc disintegration and cell lysis. Technologies include the CROWNTM Disintegration System, MicroSludge (combination chemical

and mechanical), BioCrackTM (combination mechanical and electrical), and Biolysis System (BLSTM). The CROWN system is similar to the MicroSludge system and utilizes a maceration process followed by a 12-bar (174 psi) pressure change to cause cavitation, which leads to cell disintegration. The system can be added on to the sludge influent to the anaerobic digestion process and is typically used as a pretreatment for thickened waste activated sludge. There are over 20 full-scale operating facilities, mostly in Europe. These installations have demonstrated a typical 20 percent increase in solids destruction, 16-40 percent increase in biogas, and a 36 percent point increase in total solids after dewatering; for example, dewatered cake percent total solids (TS) increase from 20 to 23-26 percent. The CROWN system is recommended for plants with an influent flow greater than 10 mil gal per day (mgd). Additional advantages are that it is relatively simple to operate, may be installed as a single skid-mounted assembly, does not require additional heating or chemicals, and may reduce polymer dosage and digester foaming. (Froud et al, 2009; Sandino and Whitlock, 2010; sludgedisintegration.com). The BioCrack product has multiple fullscale installations in Europe, in addition to

pilot demonstrations in the U.S. The BioCrack utilizes an inline maceration, followed by an electrical pulse that causes floc disintegration. The full-scale implementations have shown an 8 percent increase in biogas production, 11.2 percent decrease in biosolids, and a 17.8 percent decrease in polymer usage. Additional advantages include its simplicity of operation and small footprint, and that it may be installed on a single skid-mounted unit and does not require the addition of chemicals. The BLS consists of high-speed “rotary mills” that shear the activated sludge, causing cell lysis. The BLS did not have an effect on the sludge yield in a full-scale demonstration at the Plum Island WWTP near Charleston, S.C.; however, in batch studies, volatile solids destruction increased by 16.6 to 110 percent and gas production increased by 15-46 percent. A full-scale pilot test in Gatlinburg, Tenn., showed positive results similar to those from the batch studies. The variation in test results demonstrates the importance of pilot testing before full-scale installations as the same technology may have a significantly different effectiveness at different wastewater treatment plants. (Fairey et al, 2004; Sandino and Whitlock, 2010). Continued on page 48

Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Continued from page 47 Ultrasound Pretreatment Technologies Ultrasound is a cyclic sound pressure with a frequency greater than 20 kHz. The optimal frequency range for waste activated sludge is 20-40 kHz, and at this frequency, the ultrasound wave generates compression and rarefaction, which in turn creates cavitation bubbles. Cavitation bubbles are formed in the rarefaction regions, and when the bubbles collapse, they produce shock waves, which lead to activated sludge floc disintegration and cell lysis. Multiple manufacturers market ultrasonic products, which may have different configurations, but all rely on the same mechanism for sludge floc disintegration and cell lysis. Two such systems are the SonolyzerTM and the SonixTM (Silva, 2005; Carrére et al, 2010; Sandino and Whitlock, 2010, Pilli et al, 2011). The Ultrawaves ultrasound disintegration system goes by the name Sonolyzer in the U.S. Sonolyzer has at least 20 full-scale and 17 pilotscale installations, mostly in Germany. These installations have demonstrated that ultrasound pretreatment of WAS may result in a 15-35 percent increase in volatile solids destruction and a 15-35 percent increase in biogas production. Sonix has been tested or installed in full-scale operations in Orange County, Calif.; United Kingdom; Sweden; Singapore; Japan; Australia; New Zealand; and Edmonton, Alberta. Sonix pretreatment of WAS has demonstrated a 20-30 percent increase in volatile solids destruction and a secondary sludge volatile solids increase from 40 percent or below to 60 percent (Kruger et al, 2005; Sandino and Whitlock, 2010; ovivowater.com; sonico.net).

Additional benefits of ultrasound pretreatment are that the units are very compact and simple to operate, reduce digester foaming, are easy to retrofit to existing facilities, and do not require extreme temperatures, pressures, or chemicals. Some of the drawbacks are that the units require a high-energy input, and in some cases, the energy input may outweigh the benefits from sludge reduction and increased biogas production. Data have shown both an increase and a decrease in dewaterability and polymer dosage as a result of ultrasound WAS pretreatment, and pilot studies may be required to determine what effect ultrasound treatment will have on the activated sludge and the optimal ultrasound dosage (Pilli et al, 2011). Electrical Pretreatment Technologies The OpenCelTM technology utilizes a focused pulse of electricity to break down the cell membrane, eventually resulting in cell lysis. OpenCel has a full-scale installation at the Northwest Water Reclamation Plant (NWWRP) in Mesa, Ariz., and has demonstrated an increase in soluble COD from 1,285 mg/L to 3,310 mg/L, a 60 percent increase in biogas, and a 40 percent reduction in biosolids. As a result of the energy offsets from the increase in biogas and reduction in biosolids disposal cost, the OpenCel™ provided an overall net positive economic benefit to the NWWRP. Additionally, it was also demonstrated that OpenCel caused an increase in the relative abundance of acetate-utilizing methanogens, indicating that cell lysis increases the availability of simple volatile acids. Additional benefits are that the unit may be retrofitted in an exist-

ing facility with minimal interruption to plant operation and does not require any chemical addition (Banaszak et al, 2008; opencel.com). OpenCel has also been demonstrated to treat WAS for use as an internal electron donor for denitrification and could offset the need for methanol or other external source. In a pilot study, OpenCel increased the semisoluble COD of the treated WAS by 26 to 31 times, compared with nontreated WAS (Lee et al, 2010).

Case Study: BioCrack at Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant BioCrack is an electrokinetic disintegration process to increase the efficiency of the anaerobic digestion process in biogas and wastewater treatment plants. The wastewater sludge passes through an inline mechanical macerator and is then exposed to a high-voltage electrical field. The process breaks up the sludge flocs and may even rupture the cell walls, increasing the degradability of the sludge. A full-scale trailer-mounted BioCrack unit was installed at a 20-mgd WWTP located in the southeastern United States. Figure 3 shows the solids and liquids trains and the location of the BioCrack pilot unit. The WWTP operates a four-stage biological nutrient removal (BNR) process to meet a year-round 5.5 mg/L effluent total nitrogen (TN) limit and a 0.5 and 2.0 mg/L total phosphorus (TP) effluent limit during the summer and winter, respectively. Thickened waste activated sludge (TWAS) is combined with raw primary sludge in four anaerobic digesters. Waste activated sludge is prethickened in gravity thickeners before final thickening via gravity belt thickeners. The BioCrack unit was installed on the effluent of the gravity belt thickeners. The TWAS is then fed to two digesters (Nos. 1 and 2), operated in parallel, followed by two digesters (Nos. 3 and 4) in series. Digesters Nos. 1

Table 1. BioCrack Operating Parameters

Figure 3. Wastewater Treatment Plant Flow Schematic with BioCrack Pilot Unit

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

and 2 each have a 732,000-gal capacity and Digesters Nos. 3 and 4 each have 1.19-mil-gal (MG) capacity. During the BioCrack pilot the primary digesters had an average 31-day SRT and the secondary digesters had an average 50.4-day SRT for an 81.4-day total-digester SRT. The BioCrack pilot test ran from the end of September 2011 to the end of December 2011. Table 1 provides a summary of the BioCrack operating parameters. It should be noted that the net energy input (220 kJ/kg TSS, 1.0 kWH/m3) is on the lower end of the spectrum for WAS pretreatment technologies. As a point of reference, Lee et al, 2010, used a 28 kWh/m3 energy input with OpenCel to treat WAS for use as a carbon source for denitrification. Figure 4 displays the monthly average gas production from the primary digesters during 2011. The error bars represent Âą one standard error of the mean. There appeared to be an increase in gas production during the BioCrack pilot; however, given the inherent variability (daily and seasonal) of digester gas production, it cannot be concluded whether the apparent increase in digester gas was a direct result of the BioCrack pilot. Table 2 summarizes the impact of the BioCrack unit on TWAS. The total suspended solids (TSS) and volatile suspended solids (VSS) disintegration were calculated using Equation 1 and Equation 2; the COD solubilisation was calculated using Equation 3. The high TSS and VSS disintegration (13.6 and 11.4 percent, respectively) and low COD solubilisation (0.30 percent) indicate that the BioCrack is likely breaking the large-sludge flocs into much smaller particles, but not accomplishing significant cell lysis. It is expected that the COD solubilization would be much higher if the process were achieving a significant amount of cell lysis.

integration, but not cell lysis, it is likely that the process increases the rate of anaerobic digestion, but not the extent of digestion. BioCrack may be more appropriate at WWTPs with lower digester SRT (15-20 days) where an increase in the rate of anaerobic digestion would have a much more significant impact on total gas production.

Conclusion Multiple WAS pretreatment technologies are available and have been demonstrated to increase volatile solids reduction and biogas pro-

duction in the anaerobic digestion process. Depending on the technology, there may be a need for additional process heat, electricity, and chemicals, or a combination of these three components. When evaluating WAS pretreatment alternatives, it is important that the plant owner not only considers the volatile solids reduction, biogas production, and improved dewaterability, but also considers the cost and complexity of operation, the ease with which the process may be retrofitted to an existing anaerobic digestion process, the ability to proContinued on page 50

Equation 1: TSS disintegration (percent) =

Equation 2: VSS disintegration (percent) =

Equation 3: COD solubilisation (percent) =

The BioCrack process did not have a significant effect on the TWAS or the performance of the anaerobic digesters during this case study. Because the BioCrack appears to achieve floc disFlorida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

Table 2. BioCrack Performance Data

Continued from page 49 duce Class A biosolids, and additional benefits such as decreased odor from WAS pretreatment processes, as well as the specific operation of the particular wastewater treatment process. Results from laboratory-, pilot-, and full-scale installations have shown that there can be significant variation in performance, depending on the process and sludge characteristics and it is recommended that pilot testing be conducted, when possible, before full-scale installation of any of the WAS pretreatment technologies.

References • Banaszak, J.E., Burrowes, P., Daigger, G., Enochs, M.B., Klein, A.M., Lopez, R., Rittman, B.E., Schlegel, P.R., 2008. Focused-Pulsed Treatment of Waste Activated Sludge: Applications to Waste Biosolids Reduction and Increased Methane Production. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Residuals and Biosolids Conference 104-115. • "Biocrack.gif." Vogelsang - Rotary Lobe Sludge Pumps, Inline Sludge Grinders, and Sludge / Manure Distribution Heads. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.vogelsangusa.com/biocrack.htm>. • "Biothelys™ - Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies." Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies | Water and Wastewater Treatment. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.veoliawaterst.com/ biothelys/en/>. • Cambi - Cambi.no. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.cambi.no/wip4/>. • Carrère, H., Dumas, C., Battimelli, A., Batston, D.J., Delgenés, J.P., Steyer, J.P., Ferrer, I., 2010. Pretreatment methods to improve sludge anaerobic degradability: A review. Journal of Hazardous Materials 183: 1-15. • The CROWN-Disintegration System. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://sludgedisintegration.com/>. • Fairey, A.W., Cook, J.B., 2004. Evaluation of Kady Biolysis System at the Plum Island Wastewater Treatment Plant. • Froud, C., Schmitt, J., Applegate, C., 2009. Anaerobic digestion enhancement success stories from around the world. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Resid-

Figure 4. Primary Digester Average Daily Gas Production

uals and Biosolids Conference, 856-871. • Gary, D., Morton, R., Tang, C-C., Horvath, R., 2007. The Effect of the MICROSLUDGE treatment process on anaerobic digestion performance. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Conference, 1724-1738. • Hunt, P., Schroedel, R., Wilson, T., 2009. Overview of Best Anaerobic Digestion Technologies When Sustainability is Important. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Residuals and Biosolids Conference, 254-274. • Kline, M., Gurieff, N., Bruus, J., 2011. An Evolution in Biosolids Thermal Hydrolysis Technology – Kruger’s ExelysTM Continuous Thermal Hydrolysis System. • Kruger, R., Hogan, F., 2005 Using Sonix to Enhance Anaerobic Digestion: An Overview from Different Trials and Installations. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Residuals and Biosolids Conference. • Kruger Inc. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http:// www.krugerusa.com/en/files/15788.htm>. • Lee, I., Parameswaran, P., Alder, J., Rittman, B., 2010. Feasiblity of Focused-Pulsed Treated Waste Activated Sludge as a Supplemental Electron Donor for Denitrification. Water Environment Research, 82, 2316. • Ovivo Water - Global Water Experts. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.ovivowater.com/ index.php?option=com_content>. • OpenCEL. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.opencel.com/>. • Paradigm Environmental | MicroSludge Wastewater Treatment Plant Management Municipal Industrial Pulp & Paper Vancouver BC Canada. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.microsludge.com/>. • Pilli, S., Bhunia, P., Yan, S., LeBlanc, R.J., Tyagi, R.D., Surampalli, R.Y., 2011. Ultrasonic pretreatment of sludge: A review. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry 18: 1-18.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

• Roxburgh, R., Sieger, R., Johnson, B., Rabinowitz, B., Goodwin, S., Crawford, G., Daigger, G., 2006. Sludge Minimization Technologies – Doing More to Get Less. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Conference, 506-525. • Sandino, J., Whitlock, D., 2010. Water Environment Research Foundation Final Report 05-CTS-3: Evaluation of Processes to Reduce Activated Sludge Solids Generation and Disposal. IWA Publishing, London. • Sandino, J., Whitlock, D., Novak, J., Higgins, M., Hammitt, R., Koundakjian, P., Stephenson, S., Laliberte, S., Hoy, P., Drew, A., 2010. Evaluation of a sludge homogenization sludge pre-conditioning process for increased biogas cogeneration potential and reduced sludge yield from anaerobic digestion. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Residuals and Biosolids Conference, 701-719. • Shea, T., 2009. Thermal Hydrolysis and Acid Hydrolysis – Pre-conditioning Technologies on the Move. The Straight Scoop, Volume 5 Issue 2. • Silva, V., 2005. Ultrasonic Technology to Improve Biosolids Treatment. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Residuals and Biosolids Conference. • Sonix : Ultrasound for Enhanced Digestion. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.sonico.net/>. • Stephenson, R., Rabinowitz, B., Laliberte, S., Elson, P., 2005. Teaching an Old Digester New Tricks: Full-Scale Demonstration of the MICROSLUDGE Process to Liquefy Municipal Waste Activated Sludge. • Wilson, C.A., Murthy, S.N., Novak, J.T., 2008. Laboratory-Scaled Digestibility Study of Wastewater Sludge Treated by Thermal Hydrolysis. Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation Residuals and Biosolids Conference, 374-386. • Yeom, I., Lee, K., Ahn, K., Lee, S., 2002. , Water Sci. Technol. 46 (4–5) 421–425.

Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

New Products The Sensus Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) and AES-256-bit encryption provide a sustainable communication network for water and gas utilities. The IPv6 communications standard ensures interoperability of all applications that communicate via the Sensus FlexNet system and helps safeguard the need for network overhauls. The AES-256-bit encryption will help water utilities as they roll our applications beyond those that capture data on water consumption by securing management and control of meter reprogramming, valves, and other distribution assets. (www.sensus.com)

The Dif-Jet™ gas-infusion device from Fortrans Inc. is an alternative to ordinary diffusers, injectors, and sparger designs for wastewater aeration. The infuser doesn’t make bubbles; it infuses oxygen from air or pure oxygen into the water. The patent-pending design prevents problems with fouling, high solids, or dissolved minerals in the water. It is efficient as dissolving such gases as air, oxygen, carbon dioxide, ozone, and nitrogen into water and also enables the mixing of multiple gases into water. The devices and systems can be incorporated easily into existing treatment systems and are available in polyvinyl chloride and stainless steel designs. (www.fortransinc.com)

The McElroy Manufacturing Inc. Super 28 fusion machine is designed for fusing various sizes and types of pipe, from 2-in. iron pipe to 8-in. dual inline packages of polyethylene pipe. The machine features a diesel-powered 28 fusion carriage on a TracStar 412/618 chassis. The new configuration enables contractors to have the machine on job sites where gasoline is unavailable or not allowed. It offers ruggedness and reliability and can be ordered as a combination unit that enables fusion of branch saddles with a maximum base diameter of 9.63 in. onto any size pipe main. (www.mcelroy.com)

The Bingham & Taylor “No Vac” valve box sealed system consists of a valve box stabilizer and a debris trap, which are available together or separately. The highly versatile system fits all round-valve box bells and bases for use with either cast-iron or plastic valve boxes. It prevents the intrusion of dirt, backfill, or sand from below. Design features of the stabilizer are proprietary and benefit utilities by ensuring proper alignment of the valves box and protection of the valve. It ensures that all

“down” force is transferred to the backfilled area, rather than to the buried valves or pipes. The debris-trap component eliminates maintenance and service issues caused by debris intrusion through and around the valve-box top over time. The box is designed to fit domestic and imported valve boxes. (www.binghamandtaylor.com)

The FORSe 5™ series of high-efficiency odor- and corrosion-control systems, from Anue Water Technologies Inc., are for wastewater collection systems and use sustainable means to eliminate the source and production of odor and corrosion. The systems integrate on-site oxygen and ozone generation using a proprietary “hydrodynamic” infusion process and microprocessor controls in a quiet and compact package. The systems treat force mains, lift stations, or combinations of the two. The different models range in capacity to accommodate various flows and loads. They are designed for ease of use and require little maintenance. (www.anuewater.com)

Pfannenberg Group has a PATROL series PAX 5 generation of 105-dB(A) industrial flashing sounders that are designed to warn of hazardous situations or production problems in water and wastewater treatment factories, factories, commercial offices, and other buildings, as well as aboard ships. Applications include evacuation signals for fire, toxic gas leaks, or chemical spills, and warnings for impending startup or movement. (www.pfannenberg.com)

The CDA-22 chlorine dioxide analyzer from Electro-Chemical Devices Inc. measures concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 20 ppm. With a panel-mounted plumb-and-play design and automatic flow control, the analyzer is a complete measurement system. It features a polarographic gold/silver polytetrafluoride-ethylene membrane amperometric chlorine dioxide sensor that operates at a temperature range of zero to 100°C (32°F to 212°F). The analyzer is easy to install and maintain, and can run up to one year between electrolyte/membrane changes. (www.ecdi.com)

The redesigned Moyno Series 3 C3A channel grinder produces, on average, 30 percent more flow, compared to the original Annihilator Series C3. The grinder provides greater flexibility and management of chan-

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

nel and flow conditioning for a variety of user requirements and can be retrofitted to current C3 grinders, as well as competitor units, while continuing to use existing motor and drive adapters. The grinder can also be used to reduce flow bottlenecks without expanding the channel or plant. Other features include a one-piece casting top plate with adapter cover, top stack tightening, shrouded seal design, and hardened couplings. (www.moyno.com)

MasoSine pumps from Watson-Marlow Pumps Group are designed to handle abrasive and viscous fluids up to 10 mil centipoise. The pumps transfer shear-sensitive materials with ease and have suction capability of more than 80 percent vacuum. The pumps, which are easily disassembled, are capable of being cleaned in place or out of place, and various modifications are available, depending on the product being pumped and the cleaning protocol used. (www.watson-marlow.com)

The Messenger™ GMU8120 Remote Monitoring Unit from Global Monitoring LLC provides real-time operating status of tank level, pumps, and other instruments associated with groundwater remediation systems. It supports remote predictive maintenance while reducing equipment downtime, labor, and costs associated with field equipment repairs. Configurable for many sensor types and expandable to 16 inputs, the unit tracks such parameters as liquid level, pressure, temperature, and flow. When it detects a problem, an alarm processor notifies personnel via telephone or computer. The system communicates through standards telephone lines or optional cellular data or Ethernet interfaces. Units are designed with an international power supply and self-contained battery backup. (www.globalmonitoring.com)

The Videx Inc. CyberLock access control enables users to track and control access throughout a facility. The system includes electric locks and keys that enable water utilities to monitor and control entry gates and chemical feed areas, as well as watersheds, water wells, and other water sources. The locks and keys record openings, including unauthorized entries. Detailed audit reports of each user’s key activity and the system’s email alerts keep management updated when security issues arise. (www.videx.com)

Industrial Tarps and Covers has LOOP-LOC water treatment facility covers that are stronger than tarps and lighter than cement or metal covers. The covers protect against biological, accidental, and malicious contamination of water supplies; meet increasingly stringent health regulations affecting water utilities; maintain a safe working environment at a facility; and are built to last from high-strength, cost-effective, ultraviolet-stable polypropylene fabric. They can also be designed in any custom size and shape, with cutouts for easy access to levers and mechanisms; require zero maintenance and can be easily removed for routine facility cleaning; and are manufactured in the United States. (www.industrialtarpsandcovers.com)

Innovyze introduces InfoMaster, a comprehensive ArcGIS-centric asset integrity management and condition assessment solution for water and sewer systems. Easy to use and implement, the software provides critical insight to all of a company’s assets; their conditions and work processes, including support for customer incidents; CCTV inspections; and other field activities for better planning and control. It includes components to run on desktop, web, tablet, and smartphone environments. (www.innovyze.com)

the Cello connected to the E-Coder® can be configured to log consumption at different intervals, with metering data sent automatically to N_SIGHT™ R900® software daily. ( www.neptunetg.com)

Itron has introduced Water Analytics, a new system that includes a data store optimized for analytics, business intelligence dashboards, and water utility-specific analytics that turn smart metering and other operational data into actionable intelligence to improve utility operations and asset management. The system provides revenue protection, district metering, flow analysis, and trending and forecasting modules to help utilities better manage the delivery and use of water. In addition, the analytic application features an intuitive user interface that allows water operators to easily access and analyze critical information about their system. The product is preintegrated with the company’s ChoiceConnect system to provide a comprehensive smart metering solution for water utilities. (www.itron.com)

The new 48-in. Flex-Ring® restrainedjoint ductile-iron pipe from American Cast Iron Pipe Co. uses the sealing features of its Fastite® joint and a boltless restrained connection, providing flexible restraint against endwise separation from thrust. Easy and very quick to assemble, the joint is designed for a working pressure up to 250 psi. Flex-Ring also lends itself to installations using horizontaldirectional drilling. (www.american-usa.com)

The DuraChem 580 PW potable water tank lining system from Amtech Tank Lining adapts for steel and concrete tanks and has flexible and elongation characteristics that surpass other, older coating technologies. Changes in air temperature, sun heating, and wind deflection can cause expansion, contraction, and movement of a tank’s structure. The 580 PW can flex, bend, and stretch to adjust for these dynamic changes without disbanding from its tank wall substrate, a major factor causing failure in older and thinner coatings. (www.amtechtanklining.com)

Designed specifically for drinking water applications, the Sievers 5310 C Laboratory, OnLine, and Portable TOC Analyzers from GE Instruments monitor raw and finished drinking water for disinfection byproduct compliance and chemical addition optimization. All provide unsurpassed performance, easy operation, low cost, require no external gases, comply with USEPA-approved methodology, and offer 12-month calibration stability. The 5310 C On-Line can run grab samples while set up online. The 5310 C Laboratory and Portable operate stand-alone or with the GE Autosampler. (www.geai@ge.com)

The Cello cellular data logger from Neptune Technology Group Inc. transmits water consumption data via GSM/GPRS networks. It’s ideal for collecting and transmitting detailed consumption information for large commercial and institutional accounts or wholesale custody transfer of water between utilities—and when a fixed network collector can’t be financially justified. Easily installed, Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Alice Varkey The Florida Water Environment Association (FWEA) was proud to hold its first Florida Water Festival in the West Coast on March 22, at Spa Beach Park in St. Petersburg. The West Coast event added to the series of successful Florida Water Festivals, with over 300 people attending. The goal of the festival is to educate the public about the importance of protecting the state’s water resources through fun and educational events for the entire family. In addition to live music, water animal face painting, and caricature artists, the festival showcased: A one-mile Walk for Water, where participants had the opportunity to see what it’s like to have to carry water for a long distance, as many in the developing world still must do, while learning facts about water around the world. Interactive demonstrations on water quality sampling and testing. Demonstrations on how water systems work. Poster contest for children.

Water filtration test design competition for students. Exhibits from bay-area companies and agencies. The festival also strives to educate the public in creative ways. With over 600 “Likes”, the festival’s active Facebook page (www.facebook.com/FloridaWaterFestival) has been instrumental in spreading the word about the importance of water through social media. “Like” this page to receive updates on upcoming festivals! By continuing to hold festival events throughout the state, FWEA strives to engage the public and advance water education to help protect water resources. Thank you to our sponsors, exhibitors, and prize donors, as your contributions made this event possible. And thanks go to all the committee chairs and volunteers who donated their time and efforts to make the first Florida Water Festival in the West Coast a success! Alice Varkey is an engineer with Conestoga-Rovers & Associates in Tampa.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

FWPCOA TRAINING CALENDAR SCHEDULE YOUR CLASS TODAY! JUNE 2-5........Backflow Tester ........................................Deltona ................$375/405 2-6........Wastewater Collection C, B, A ............St. Petersburg ......$225/255 2-6........Water Distribution Level 3, 2, 1 ......St. Petersburg ......$225/255 2-6........Reclaimed Water Distribution C ........St. Petersburg ......$225/255 2-6........Stormwater A............................................St. Petersburg ......$225/255 9-13........Water Distribution Level 3, 2 ............Deltona ................$275/305 9-23........Wastewater Collection C, B, A** ........Hollywood............$250/280 9-23........Water Distribution 3, 2, 1** ..............Hollywood............$250/280 9-23........Stormwater A** ........................................Hollywood............$250/280 9-23........Stormwater C** ........................................Hollywood............$285/315 16-19........Backflow Tester ........................................St. Petersburg ......$375/405 23-27........Wastewater Collection C ......................Gainesville ..........$225/255 27........Backflow Tester Recert*** ....................Deltona ................$85/115

JULY 8........Backflow Recert ......................................Lady Lake ............$85/115 7-11........Stormwater A............................................Deltona ................$275/305 7-11 ......Water Distribution Level 1 ..................Deltona ................$275/305 7-11........Wastewater Collection A ......................Deltona ................$275/305 14-16........Backflow Repair ......................................Deltona ................$275/305 14-16........Backflow Repair ......................................St. Petersburg ......$275/305 25........Backflow Tester Recert*** ....................Deltona ................$85/115

AUGUST 11-15........FALL STATE SHORT SCHOOL ..............Ft. Pierce 22........Backflow Tester Recert*** ....................Deltona ................$85/115 Course registration forms are available at http://www.fwpcoa.org/forms.asp. For additional information on these courses or other training programs offered by the FWPCOA, please contact the FW&PCOA Training Office at (321) 383-9690 or training@fwpcoa.org. * Backflow recertification is also available the last day of Backflow Tester or Backflow Repair Classes with the exception of Deltona ** Evening classes

You are required to have your own calculator at state short schools and most other courses.

*** any retest given also Florida Water Resources Journal â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

News Beat John Curtis has been promoted to chief executive officer of Seven Seas Water Corporation. Curtis is a founding member of the company’s management team since its inception in 2007. He will be responsible for the company’s plan for international growth beyond the Caribbean. Prior to his tenure at Seven Seas Water, Curtis was vice president and treasurer for Ionics Inc., overseeing the acquisition of Ecolochem Group in 2004. He also played a role in the sale of Ionics to GE in 2005 for $1.1 billion. He also had a 30-year career with Ernst & Young, rising to the level of senior international partner. Curtis will continue to serve as the company’s president and as a member of its board of directors.

The Big Coppitt Regional Water Reclamation Facility has received the 2013 Domestic Wastewater Plant Operations Excellence Award, beating out 34 other utilities in the medium-sized plant category. The award was accepted by Tom Pfiester, the facility’s wastewater division manager. The Big Coppitt treatment facility utilizes a sequencing batch reactor as its biological treatment system, which is integral to achieving high-quality water produced by the plant. Each year, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection presents awards to domestic wastewater and drinking water facilities throughout the state that demonstrate excellence in operation, maintenance, innovative treatment, waste reduction, air pollution prevention, recycling, or other special achievements. Selection criteria are based on compliance history, record keeping and reporting, outstanding operation and maintenance practices, and facility operation, including safety and staff training.

Reiss Engineering Inc., Cooperative of Central Florida, and Reedy Creek Improvement District have received the Central

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Florida Engineer’s Week 2014 Outstanding Engineering Project of the Year Award for the Cypress Lake Transmission Conceptual Design Project. The project will protect and sustain the Upper Floridian Aquifer as identified by the South Florida Water Management District. Is consists of a conceptual design for transmission and optimization of the Cypress Lake supply water, in conjunction with existing potable water sources, to facilitate the efficient and cost-effective transfer and transmission of potable water among members of the Water Cooperative of Central Florida. The members include City of St. Cloud, Toho Water Authority, Orange County, Polk County, and Reedy Creek Improvement District and have been collaborating for more than 10 years on water conservation and supply initiatives.

The South Florida Water Management District has selected Gannett Fleming to provide professional engineering services for an $880 million restoration program in the Florida Everglades. Under a three- to fiveyear contract, the water resources personnel will work with SFWMD staff and provide engineering services for the components of the restoration strategies plan. The restoration activities include stormwater treatment areas, flow equalization basins, and reservoirs, as contained in the SFWMD restoration strategies water quality plan, comprehensive Everglades restoration plan, and the northern Everglades and estuaries protection plan.

ROI Energy Services, a company that reduces electricity costs for water, wastewater, and commercial and industrial customers, has opened an office in Weston. Customers of the company benefit from an insured guarantee of savings backed by the Energy Project Assurance Corporation and underwritten by Lloyd’s of London, as well as a good return on investment and fast payback. The company designs solutions based on a customer’s specific required rate-ofreturn requirements, delivering specific energy cost savings with a specific time period. Customers are able to increase electrical system capacity and reliability, and meet sustainability goals. An authorized, independent affiliate of Energy Automaton System Inc., the company is one of many EASI members that have completed more than 70,000 installations worldwide. Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

FWRJ READER PROFILE

Tim Harley, P.E. St. Johns County Utility Department Work title and years of service. I have been with St. Johns County Utility Department (SJCUD) since 2010, but with over 20 years of progressive and diverse professional experience as a professional engineer in both Florida and South Carolina, I now have the title of “seasoned professional.” I have had positions either with, or for, most sectors of our industry, including volunteering in the academic arena. Other positions include exposure to industrial wastewater treatment, engineering consulting, and positions with federal, state, and municipal agencies. I have even been on the financial side of water and wastewater systems when working with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Job description; what does your job entail? “Other duties as assigned” comes to mind; but seriously, no two days are the same. Working in a utility engineering department means that you are the support to the frontline operators and provide technical assistance to the operations group, perform process engineering, and develop construction projects to resolve specific problems or system needs. These needs can range from providing engineering review and guidance to ensuring the proper replacement of failed equipment to performing and coordinating a detailed analysis to resolve a problem with a treatment process at a plant. Other activities include managing projects and overseeing activities of outside consultants and contractors in the preparation and construction of utility projects for reclaimed water, water and wastewater treatment, collection, transmission, and distribution. It also means interaction with governmental agencies, developers and their representatives, the public, and professionals across our industry. While doing all of these things, the municipal employee is a steward of the public’s trust to prepare and maintain the utility’s capital improvement program budget, properly plan for the future, and keep costs to a minimum so that customer utility bills do not increase.

What education and training have you completed? I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Engineering from Clemson University, in Clemson, S.C. After graduation I worked with the USDA Farmers Home Administration as an assistant county supervisor and then as a county supervisor. In addition to housing and farm loans, many in our industry will be familiar with the community development loans for water and wastewater infrastructure. It was this exposure that convinced me to go back to Clemson to get a Master of Science degree in Environmental Systems Engineering, with an emphasis in water and wastewater. What do you like best about your job? I like having a wide range of projects and problems to work on, from planning to process troubleshooting to design and construction projects. But the best thing about my job is the people. Our profession is a calling and it is about the reward of making a difference in the everyday lives of our fellow citizens while protecting our future; after all, we live and work here, too. It is also a directive from the Book of Genesis: Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” Isn’t that what we do, even when much of what we do goes unseen and is often not the subject of dinner discussions? What organization do you belong to? • Water Environment Federation • American Water Works Association • FWEA • FSAWWA

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

How have the organizations helped your career? Being a member has allowed me to network with professional-minded people who believe in protecting and enhancing water quality. It has allowed me to develop friendships, to travel across this state, and if I’m ever stranded on the side of the road, there is always a friend close by. It also provides many other benefits such as staying updated on advances, trends, and solutions. I have found that membership practically pays for itself through discounts on continuing education units (CEUs) and professional development hours (PDHs). I know that sounds like a sales pitch, but I would have never have thought that when I was asked to be a member of the Water Environment Federation and the American Water Works Association—first in South Carolina and then in Florida—that I would have had the opportunity to work directly with past national presidents for both organizations or to be able to network with individuals across the country. I have been more involved with FWEA as local chair of the First Coast Chapter of FWEA for the past two years. I am now privileged to be on the FWEA board as directors as a director at large.

Over the past several years, the First Coast Chapter of FWEA and FSAWWA Region II have both been able to work together, while maintain their independence. I am proud of the steps that we have made to combine the efforts of two great organizations in northeast Florida. Together, we make an even bigger impact and are able to return more to our members and communities. To see how well our team works together, I extend an invitation to one of our events in northeast Florida, such as the Don Maurer Classic Putting Tournament (it has been called the “best networking event in Florida”), our annual golf tournament, a day of fishing, the water tower competition, young professional events, sporting clays, quarterly educational luncheons, or the Northeast Florida Wastewater Process Seminar to be held June 17 in Ponte Vedra Beach. What do you like best about the industry? I have already hinted at it: the people and the things that we do make a difference; not just occasionally, but every day. It is because of professionals in our industry that we can, with confidence, turn on a spigot for a drink of water, eat many of our favorite foods, or go for

a swim without a fear of the plagues of our past. If police, emergency medical technicians, and firefighters are first responders, then the heroes who work in this industry are “preresponders,” and they prevent a lot of bad things from happening every day. What do you do when you’re not working? Not working, vacations—I’ve heard of these things, but I have also heard of the Loch Ness Monster and Big Foot. It seems as if I have always managed to stay busy. I joined the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) after college, holding local and state positions that involved me with too many community projects to list. As a result of my various roles, I received the highest awards from that organization on the local, state, federal, and international levels. This desire to return to the community has carried over to board and committee positions with other organizations, such as Think Pink (cancer patient care), and the March of Dimes. I have also been a volunteer teacher at the International Learning Center in Jacksonville for English as a second language (ESL). When not doing work for one of these organizations, or when I need to clear my head, I enjoy taking a motorcycle ride on, you guessed it: my Harley!

Certification Boulevard Answer Key = 3.14 x 37.5 x 37.5 x 20 ft x 7.48 gal/ft3 x 0.85 = 561,490.9 gals

From page 40 1. A) To increase total solids concentration.

Sludge Feed, gpd = 15,500

The higher the cake solids, the lower the operating cost for hauling. Most cake is hauled according to a cost-per-wet-ton basis.

2. B) The top half of a belt filter press. The GBT looks and acts just like the top portion of a belt filter press. The process consists of gravity dewatering through the belt without any applied pressure.

5. D) 36.2 days Aerobic digester HRT, days = Volume of tank, gals ÷ Feed sludge, gpd Volume of tank, gals = πr2 x depth, ft. x 7.48 gal/ft3 x percent full

Typically, white foam produced in an aerobic digester can be the result of overaeration. Reducing the air supply, and resultant dissolved oxygen levels, can often decrease the production of white foam. Shutting off the air altogether for several hours at a time, can actually make foam white disappear. Also, this activity (of shutting off air supply) typically will result in increased destruction of volatile solids in the aerobic digester. Also, denitrification (use of nitrate as a source of oxygen) replenishes alkalinity, and usually results in an increased pH value.

VanKleek VS Reduction, percent = VS IN - VS OUT ÷ VS IN - (VS IN x VS OUT) x 100 VS IN = VSS ÷ TSS = 2.7 percent ÷ 3.4 percent = 0.794 VS OUT = VSS ÷ TSS = 1.7 percent ÷ 2.4 percent = 0.708 VanKleek VS Reduction, percent = 0.794 - 0.708 ÷ 0.794 - (0.794 x 0.708) x 100 = 37.09 percent

4. C) To clean the belts. The belt press washbox contains several nozzles that spray high pressure water to clean sludge/polymer out of the belt weave. Streaks of sludge on the belt as it leaves the washbox indicate plugged nozzles.

9. D) Decrease the air supply and decrease the DO.

6. B) 37.1 percent

An inline (or in-pipe) venturi mixer is designed to impart energy on the two streams being mixed: sludge feed and polymer solution. As the mixer is closed, more energy is imparted and the size of the resultant floc particles will be smaller.

B) 792,693 gals Tank volume, gals = πr2 x depth, ft. x 7.48 gal/ft3 = 3.14 x 37.5 ft. x 37.5 ft. x 24 ft. x 7.48 gal/ft3 = 792,693 gals note: consider π as 3.14

Aerobic digester HRT, days = 561,491 gals ÷ 15,500 gpd = 36.2 days

3. B) Close the venturi mixer.

B) Decrease the pH. Carbon dioxide is acidic, and trapping it will tend to reduce the pH. Continuous aeration typically lowers the pH due to increased nitrification consuming additional alkalinity. Anoxic reactions will tend to increase the pH due to nitrates being used as a source of oxygen and alkalinity being replenished.

10. B) False The volatile solids reduction should be at least 38 percent to meet Class B standards for Vector Attraction Reduction (VAR). Typically, anaerobic digestion accomplishes volatile solids reduction of about 40 to 60 percent. However, this depends on several factors, including volatile content of the feed sludge, digestion time (HRT), sludge temperature, acid to alkalinity ratio, mixing efficiency, and others.

Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Operators: Take the CEU Challenge! Members of the Florida Water & Pollution Control Association (FWPCOA) may earn continuing education units through the CEU Challenge! Answer the questions published on this page, based on the technical articles in this month’s issue. Circle the letter of each correct answer. There is only one correct answer to each question! Answer 80 percent of the questions on any article correctly to earn 0.1 CEU for your license. Retests are available. This month’s editorial theme is

Biosolids and Bioenergy Management. Look above each set of questions to see if it is for water operators (DW), distribution system operators (DS), or wastewater operators (WW). Mail the completed page (or a photocopy) to: Florida Environmental Professionals Training, P.O. Box 33119, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420-3119. Enclose $15 for each set of questions you choose to answer (make checks payable to FWPCOA). You MUST be an FWPCOA member before you can submit your answers!

___________________________________________ SUBSCRIBER NAME (please print)

Article 1 ________________________________________ LICENSE NUMBER for Which CEUs Should Be Awarded

Article 2 ________________________________________ LICENSE NUMBER for Which CEUs Should Be Awarded

If paying by credit card, fax to (561) 625-4858 providing the following information:

Earn CEUs by answering questions from previous Journal issues!

___________________________________________

Contact FWPCOA at membership@fwpcoa.org or at 561-840-0340. Articles from past issues can be viewed on the Journal website, www.fwrj.com.

___________________________________________

How Will Nutrient Management Planning Impact Biosolids Land Application? Douglas Jones (Article 1: CEU = 0.1 WW)

(Credit Card Number)

(Expiration Date)

Waste Activated Sludge Pretreatment to Boost Volatile Solids Reduction and Digester Gas Production: Market and Technology Assessment J. Hunter Long and C. Michael Bullard

1. Under previous Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulations, biosolids were land-applied based on a. the vegetation’s nitrogen demand. b. the vegetation’s phosphorus demand. c. aggregate vegation nitrogen plus phosphorus demand. d. cumulative nutrient concentration in the biosolids applied. 2. The FDEP method for determining biosolids nitrogen application rates a. assumes 50 percent of biosolids nitrogen is available to the plants. b. divides the actual nitrogen concentration by 1.5. c. assumes four crop harvestings per year. d. assumes the same nitrogen and phosphorus loading. 3. One of the application zones was demonstrated to have a very high potential to transport phosphorus off site due to a. the complex nature of the phosphorus compounds being applied. b. soil dynamics. c. excess phosphorus concentration in the soil. d. poorly controlled drainage. 4. Compared to application rates calculated under the old rules, the capacity of the application site could be reduced by ___ percent under the current nutrient management plan. a. 25 b. 52 c. 79 d. 94 5. The P Index is a a. guide for determining how much potassium can be applied to a given site. b. value that helps assess phosphorus transport potential. c. table appearing in 62-640.750(2)(a), FAC. d. phosphorus loading ratio expressed in lbs/acre/year.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

(Article 2: CEU = 0.1 WW}

1. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) solubilization would likely be much higher in the _____________ process if a significant amount of cell lysis were achieved. a. BIO-THELYSTM b. CAMBITM TM c. BioCrack d. OpenCelTM 2. Anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge is generally limited by a. available nutrients. b. temperature. c. dewaterability. d. hydrolysis rate. 3. Which of the following is not listed as a potential benefit of waste activated sludge pretreatment? a. Odor control b. Improved volatile solids reduction c. Decreased amount of residual biosolids d. Increased biogas production 4. In the anaerobic biosolids treatment process, _____________ will reduce total sludge mass, but will not increase digester gas production. a. shearing cell membranes b. cell lysis c. floc disintegration d. chemical oxidation 5. Which of the following is a listed advantage of thermal hydrolysis? a. Ease of operations b. No required regulatory inspections c. Produces Class A biosolids product d. Low energy requirement

ENGINEERING DIRECTORY

Tank Engineering And Management Consultants, Inc.

Engineering • Inspection Aboveground Storage Tank Specialists Mulberry, Florida • Since 1983

863-354-9010 www.tankteam.com

Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

ENGINEERING DIRECTORY

Fort Lauderdale 954.351.9256

Jacksonville 904.733.9119

Miami 305.443.6401

Orlando 407.423.0030

Gainseville 352.335.7991

Key West 305.294.1645

Navarro 850.939.8300

Tampa 813.874.0777 813.386.1990

West Palm Beach 561.904.7400

Naples 239.596.1715

Showcase Your Company in the Engineering or Equipment & Services Directory Contact Mike Delaney at 352-241-6006 ads@fwrj.com

EQUIPMENT & SERVICES DIRECTORY

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Florida Water Resources Journal

EQUIPMENT & SERVICES DIRECTORY

Motor & Utility Services, LLC

Instrumentation,Controls Specialists Instrumentation Calibration Troubleshooting and Repair Services On-Site Water Meter Calibrations Preventive Maintenance Contracts Emergency and On Call Services Installation and System Start-up Lift Station Controls Service and Repair

Central Florida Controls,Inc. Florida Certified in water meter testing and repair P.O. Box 6121 • Ocala, FL 34432 Phone: 352-347-6075 • Fax: 352-347-0933

CEC Motor & Utility Services, LLC 1751 12th Street East Palmetto, FL. 34221 Phone - 941-845-1030 Fax – 941-845-1049 prademaker@cecmotoru.com • Motor & Pump Services Test Loaded up to 4000HP, 4160-Volts • Premier Distributor for Worldwide Hyundai Motors up to 35,000HP • Specialists in rebuilding motors, pumps, blowers, & drives • UL 508A Panel Shop, engineer/design/build/install/commission • Lift Station Rehabilitation Services, GC License # CGC1520078 • Predictive Maintenance Services, vibration, IR, oil sampling • Authorized Sales & Service for Aurora Vertical Hollow Shaft Motors

w w w. c e nt r a l f l or i d a c ont rol s . c om

Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

EQUIPMENT & SERVICES DIRECTORY

CLASSIFIEDS Positions Av ailable Purchase Private Utilities and Operating Routes Florida Corporation is interested in expanding it’s market in Florida. We would like you and your company to join us. We will buy or partner for your utility or operations business. Call Carl Smith at 727835-9522. E-mail: csmith@uswatercorp.com

We are currently accepting employment applications for the following positions: Water & Wastewater Licensed Operator’s – positions are available in the following counties: Pasco, Polk, Highlands, Lee, Marathon Maintenance Technicians – positions are available in the following locations: Jacksonville, New Port Richey, Fort Myers, Lake, Marion, Ocala, Pembroke Pines Construction Manager – Hillsborough Customer Service Manager - Pasco Employment is available for F/T, P/T and Subcontract opportunities Please visit our website at www.uswatercorp.com (Employment application is available in our website) 4939 Cross Bayou Blvd. New Port Richey, FL 34652 Toll Free: 1-866-753-8292 Fax: (727) 848-7701 E-Mail: hr@uswatercorp.com

Water and Wastewater Utility Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Management

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Utilities Storm Water Supervisor $53,039-$74,630/yr. Plans/directs the maintenance, construction, repair/tracking of stormwater infrastructure. AS in Management, Environmental studies, or related req. Min. five years’ exp. in stormwater operations or systems. FWPCOA “A” Cert. req.

Utilities Treatment Plant Operator I $41,138-$57,885/yr plus $50/biweekly for “B” lic.; 100/biweekly for “A” lic. Class “C” FL DW Operator Lic. & membrane experience required.

Lift Station Operator I $37,313 - $52,503/yr. Inspects/repairs wastewater pumps, electrical equipment and radio telemetry system. FL Class “C” WW Collection cert. & Class “B” CDL required.

Water Plant Mechanic $43,195 - $60,779/yr. Performs inspections and maintenance of water/reuse facilities, pumping stations, well fields/equipment. Strong mechanical background with electrical knowledge of equipment installation and repair. Apply: 100 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL 33060. Open until filled. E/O/E. http://pompanobeachfl.gov for details.

Big Bend Water Authority General Manager The Big Bend Water Authority, 1313 1st Ave SE, Steinhatchee, Florida, is accepting applications for a General Manager. Applicants should have at least a Class “C” Water and Waste Water license with a minimum of 5 years of experience in the water/wastewater business. Applicant must be able to oversee all aspects of water/wastewater plant operation, file necessary government reports, and have experience in maintaining a water/wastewater utility. Salary is negotiable. More information regarding the position, including position requirements and how to submit an application, is available at www. http://bigbendwaterauthority.com/ or by calling 352-498-3576. Closing Date: June 30th, 2014 BBWA is an EOE/DFWP.

Shelley's Environmental Systems Class A Wastewater Operator Needed

The Town of Hillsboro Beach is accepting applications for a Class C or higher Water Treatment Plant Operator or a trainee who has completed the DEP approved coursework. For application, please visit www.townofhillsborobeach.com.

Plant Operator - Water Waste Water at SCPS Responsibilities: Maintain and operate district’s water and wastewater distribution systems and treatment plants as prescribed by Florida Statutes and DEP. Qualifications: AS/BS Degree(preferred) or High School Diploma/equivalent, five years’ experience in water and wastewater systems, class C operator’s license for a water treatment plant, class D operator’s license for a wastewater treatment plant, and valid driver’s license. http://www.scps.k12.fl.us/Portals/17/assets/doc/Plant%20Operator_WaterWasteWater.pdf

Wastewater Pump Station Operator in the Florida Keys $37,000 - $45,000/yr. depending on experience and qualifications. Inspects and repairs wastewater pump stations, pumps and electrical equipment. Also locates sewer lines and also uses a push camera. FL CLASS C WW Collection certification & FL. Driver’s license required. E-mail or fax resume to Jeff Oeltjen at joeltjen@orcareef.com, Fax 305-367-4246 or mail North Key Largo Utility Corp., 24 Dockside Lane PMB-512, Key Largo , FL. 33037.

Seeking a Water & Waste Resources Manager

Class A Wastewater Operator needed for a Residuals Management Facility located In Zellwood, Fl. Full time, 40 hours a week. Great Company to work for! Call Barbara Shelley for more information. (407) 889-8042

Engineer IV Utility Designer IV Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) currently has an opening for a qualified Engineer IV to perform professional and technical engineering work involving a variety of engineering projects in the Water/Wastewater Systems division. For further information and/or to apply visit: www.cityofgainesville.jobs EOE/AA/DFWP/VP

Chief Wastewater Operator Coral Springs Improvement District Chief Wastewater Operator to oversee and direct the operation of the District's wastewater treatment plan. Responsible for ensuring compliance with state and federal regulatory standards and all applicable District policies, rules and regulations, budget preparations, capital improvements planning, staffing, performance appraisals, and training of personnel. Must possess a valid State of Florida Class A Wastewater Treatment Operator's license, pass a pre-employment drug screen and have a valid Florida driver's license. Minimum five years supervisory experience in Wastewater Treatment. Competitive starting salary and benefit package including 401(a) defined benefit plan and matching 457(b) retirement plan. Application and full job description may be obtained at the District's website: http://www.csidfl.org/resources/employment.html

Disney is a world-class entertainment & technological leader. Lead a team of salaried Managers, Craftworkers & hourly cast responsible for the operation & maintenance of the Reedy Creek Improvement District wastewater treatment facility & associated collection systems, reclaimed water distribution system & potable water system. Generate periodic reports required to maintain compliance with FDEP & EPA for all applicable permits. Must have strong communication, relationship & partnering skills. Requirements include: 10+ yrs of leadership experience in a water treatment operation; Knowledge of FDEP & EPA regulations for water treatment, mechanical pumping, piping systems, Maximo, 5S principles & OSHA 1910, drainage systems & roadways; Budget & scheduling management skills; Problem solving & continuous process improvement skills; Passion for safety; Class III landfill operations & regulatory requirements. Bachelor's degree required in Civil Engin. or equivalent. MS degree or MBA preferred.

City of Deltona - WASTEWATER OPERATOR – Open Until Filled Operator I: $15.73/hr-$20.57/hr, Operator II: $17.18/hr -$22.46/hr, Operator III: $18.76/hr-$24.52/hr For Operator I: a minimum State of Florida Class “C” water or “C” wastewater license, Operator II: “B” or “CC” License, Operator III: “BB” or “A” License. Submit completed City of Deltona employment application to: City of Deltona, Attn: HRD, 2345 Providence Blvd., Deltona FL 32725. Application available at www.deltonafl.gov.

Class C Water Operator The City of Frostproof is accepting applications for a Class C Water operator. Applications are available at www.cityoffrostproof.com.

To apply, please visit: http://bit.ly/184669BR Classifieds continued on page 66 Florida Water Resources Journal • June 2014

Classifieds continued from page 65

City of Deltona LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR $19.60/HR - $25.63/HR, DOQ Associate’s degree and/or Vocational/Technical school training in Water or Wastewater Treatment required, with three (3) years of wastewater treatment experience at a supervisory level; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position. Supervisory experience is required. Class “B” Plant Operator’s. Submit completed City of Deltona employment application: City of Deltona, Attn: HRD, 2345 Providence Blvd., Deltona FL 32725. Applications are available on web site: www.deltonafl.gov

City of Sarasota Treatment Manager $60,965.42 - $77,696.32 Annually DOQ The City is seeking an experienced manager with a Florida dual license(or ability to obtain)to plan, organize, direct, supervise and manage the staff, functions and programs of the Utility plants. This individual will be responsible for all phases of operations, maintenance and regulatory compliance for our two 10 mgd water/wastewater treatment plants. The successful candidate needs a Bachelor Degree from an accredited college or university in mechanical, civil, sanitary, or environmental engineering is preferred. Five years of management experience in operations of water and wastewater treatment plants or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities. Water or wastewater Florida Operator's License highly preferred. Possess and maintain a valid State of Florida Driver's License will have a working knowledge and thorough understanding of operating permits, consent orders, water use permits and F.A.C. This individual will also be responsible for coordinating the certification processes for staff throughout the Utility. For further requirements and complete job description, please visit our website at www.sarasotagov.com EEO/AA/ADA/Vet Pref.

February 2014

Editorial Calendar January . . . .Wastewater Treatment February . . . .Water Supply; Alternative Sources March . . . . . .Energy Efficiency; . . . . . . . . . . .Environmental Stewardship April . . . . . . .Conservation and Reuse; Florida Water Resources Conference May . . . . . . .Operations and Utilities Management June . . . . . . . .Biosolids Management and Bioenergy Production; . . . . . . . . . . .FWRC Review July . . . . . . . .Stormwater Management; . . . . . . . . . . .Emerging Technologies August . . . . .Disinfection; Water Quality; 65th Anniversary September . .Emerging Issues; . . . . . . . . . . .Water Resources Management October . . . . .New Facilities, Expansions and Upgrades November . . .Water Treatment December . . .Distribution and Collection Technical articles are usually scheduled several months in advance and are due 60 days before the issue month (for example, January 1 for the March issue). The closing date for display ad and directory card reservations, notices, announcements, upcoming events, and everything else including classified ads, is 30 days before the issue month (for example, September 1 for the October issue). For further information on submittal requirements, guidelines for writers, advertising rates and conditions, and ad dimensions, as well as the most recent notices, announcements, and classified advertisements, go to www.fwrj.com or call 352-241-6006.

Display Advertiser Index

Positions Wantetd PHILIP LEON – Holds a Florida Dual license – B Water and C Wastewater with 20 years experience. Prefers the Tampa area but is willing to re-locate to any area of the state. Contact at 5633 Crescent Beach Loop, Ste. 179, Dover, Fl. 33527. 772-485-2775 EDWARD URBANK – Holds a Florida C Water and Wastewater license with eight years experience and five years in route work and excellent people skills. Prefers Ocala/Gainesville area of the state. Contact at 15750 NE 46th Street, Williston, Fl. 32696. 352-278-2654

Looking For a Job? The FWPCOA Job Placement Committee Can Help! Contact Joan E. Stokes at 407-293-9465 or fax 407-293-9943 for more information.

June 2014 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Blue Planet ......................11 CEU Challange ................60 Conshield ........................21 Crom ..............................56 Data Flow ........................35 FSAWWA Call 4 Papers ....47 FSAWWA Conference ......38 FSAWWA Exhibits ............39 FWPCOA Short School ....45 FWPCOA Training ............55 Garney ..............................5 GML ............................4, 29 Hudson Pump ..................51 Hydro International ..........23

ISA Symposium ..............41 McKim & Creed ..............49 Permaform ......................28 Polston ............................37 Rangeline ........................67 Reiss Engineering ..............7 Stacon ..............................2 Stantec............................16 Sunshine 811 ..................53 TREEO ............................43 US Water ........................57 Wade Trim ......................22 Xylem ..............................56

70- Wade trim 71- Stantec FWEA 1/4 page 72 - Move directories C- factor start on 70 & jump ad log arcadis and ISA