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President: Richard Anderson (FSAWWA) Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority
Vice President: Joe Paterniti (FWEA) Clay County Utility Authority
Treasurer: Rim Bishop (FWPCOA) Seacoast Utility Authority
Secretary: Mish Clark Mish Agency
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The Post Office will not forward your magazine. Do not count on getting the Journal unless you notify us directly of address changes by the 15th of the month preceding the month of issue. Please do not telephone address changes. Email changes to changes@fwrj.com or mail to Florida Water Resources Journal, 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711
Membership Questions
FSAWWA: Casey Cumiskey – 407-979-4806 or fsawwa.casey@gmail.com
This column addresses safety issues of interest to water and wastewater personnel, and will appear monthly in the magazine. The Journal is also interested in receiving any articles on the subject of safety that it can share with readers in the “Spotlight on Safety” column.
Keeping Chemical Deliveries Safe
One of the most potentially dangerous activities at a water or wastewater plant is the delivery of hazardous chemicals. Injuries can occur when a chemical is delivered to the wrong container or the chemical is spilled. Serious injury can result when incompatible toxic chemicals are inadvertently mixed during delivery.
Safe chemical receiving and unloading procedures, practices, and management controls should be documented and practiced to ensure the safe delivery of chemicals to utility facilities.
Staff Responsibility
While the supplier and shipper are responsible for ensuring the chemical
load is properly identified, placarded, and transported, it’s up to the staff of the receiving facility to ensure the flowing:
S The chemical is what was ordered.
S The chemical is offloaded safely to the proper place.
S Personnel are trained to handle the material correctly.
In addition, facility security protocols should be used to verify in advance who will be delivering the chemicals and in what manner. A chain of custody should always be maintained between the manufacturer and the purchaser. It’s even common for some utilities to require background checks on the chemical delivery drivers for their specific utility.
Safety Procedures
While every chemical has specific safety precautions that must be taken when inspecting and handling occurs, which are spelled out in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety Data Sheets (SDS), the following general procedures should be followed during the delivery and acceptance of any chemical:
S Schedule the delivery so the proper personnel are onsite when the chemical is delivered and the facility is ready to receive the delivery.
S Confirm the identity of the delivery driver; verify he or she is who the supplier had scheduled to make the delivery and that the vehicle or cargo container is the same transport container that is listed on the manifest.
S Verify the contents of the container. Read the placard, the bill of lading, and the SDS, and do any testing necessary. The American Water Works Association chemical standard states, “Each product shall be identified as to product, grade, net weight, name and address of the manufacturer, and brand name. Packages or containers shall show a lot number and identification of manufacturer. All markings on packaged, containerized, or bulk shipments shall conform to applicable laws and regulations, including requirements established by OSHA. Bulk quantities of product should be sealed with a uniquely numbered tamper-evident seal.”
S Wear any and all required personal protective equipment.
Continued on page 6
Lisa Wilson-Davis to Lead FSAWWA in 2025
On December 10, Lisa Wilson-Davis proudly becomes the 99th chair of the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association (FSAWWA) at the section’s annual Fall Conference, succeeding Marjorie Guillory Craig.
Originally from Pittsburgh—Go Steelers!—Lisa spent much of her youth in West Chester, Pa. On Dec. 31, 1995, she moved to Boca Raton with her husband, Tyler, and their son, Nicholas. Shortly after the move, they welcomed their daughter, Gabrielle. Lisa and her family have lived in the same home ever since, although she and her husband are now empty nesters. As her children grew, Lisa wore many hats, including dance mom, soccer and basketball coach, soccer referee, and marathon enthusiast. She now enjoys wearing the best hat of all time: the grandma hat for her grandchildren, Shane and Avery.
Currently, Lisa serves as the operations and regulatory compliance manager for the City of Boca Raton Utility Services Department, a position she has held for the past 13 years, having joined the city in 2001.
Lisa earned her bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa., in 1985. Before joining the city, she worked as an analytical chemist for North American Silica Company and later as a research chemist and manager of the Dupont Global Inventory System at DuPont de Nemours Company.
Lisa’s journey with FSAWWA began in 2005 when she joined as part of her role as the city’s program policy coordinator. Inspired by Suzanne Goss of JEA to become an “active” member, Lisa’s involvement with the section has continued to flourish.
Her first engagement was with the FSAWWA Water Utility Council (WUC). Since then, Lisa has played
key roles in the organization, including being an active member of Region VI and facilitating its first Model Water Tower Competition in 2010. She also served as the FSAWWA WUC Legislative Committee chair from 2007-2015, vice chair from 2015-2017, and as chair from 2017-2019. Lisa is also cochair of the FSAWWA FL2051 Committee. In recognition of her contributions, she was honored with the prestigious Allen B. Roberts Jr. Award in 2018.
Reflecting on her FSAWWA experience, Lisa said, “I feel truly honored and privileged to be able to volunteer and contribute to the membership and efforts of our section and industry. The FSAWWA has been invaluable in fostering my professional growth and providing opportunities for personal development as well.”
As she looks ahead to leading FSAWWA in 2025, Lisa shared, “I am excited and deeply humbled to lead the FSAWWA family and continue building on the incredible work of past chairs, members, and staff. It is a tremendous honor, and I look forward to contributing to the ongoing success of our section.” S
Continued from page 4
S Inspect transferring hoses, valves, and recipient containers for damage, plugging, or wear, and replace as necessary.
S Have a trained attendant oversee the unloading of cargo tanks. This person must be alert and note the following:
• There is a clear view of the cargo tank.
• Be within 25 feet of the tank.
• Be aware of the hazards.
• Know the procedures to follow in an emergency.
• Be authorized to move the cargo tank and be able to do so if necessary.
S Inspect the actual container or pipe that the product should be loaded into and/or through, and be sure the receptacle is clear of all potential contaminants.
S Unhook all loading/unloading connections before coupling, uncoupling, or moving a chemical cargo tank. Always chock trailers and semitrailers to prevent motion after the trailers are dropped.
S Unless the engine must run a pump for product transfer, turn if off when loading or unloading.
S Ground tanks correctly before filling them with flammable materials through an open filling hole. Ground the tank before opening the filling hole and maintain the ground until the filling hole is closed.
S Close all manholes and valves before moving a tank carrying hazardous materials. It doesn’t matter how small the amount in the tank or how short the distance—manholes and valves must be closed.
S Keep liquid discharge valves on a compressed gas tank closed except when loading and unloading.
S Ensure that any necessary lockout/tagout procedures are followed.
S Know what to do in the event of a spill or chemical release, or individual exposure to a chemical.
Resources
For more information go to the American Chemistry Society website at www.americanchemistry.com/safety/transportationsafety, or the U.S. Chemical Safety Board website at www.csb.gov. S
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Understanding the Benefits of Proactive Maintenance for Air Release Valves
John P. Schroeder, Julie L. Karleskint, and Gregory Rouse
Wastewater and water utilities utilize air release valves (ARVs) throughout their pressure pipe networks for the release and/or intake of air necessary to maintain efficient flow. Since ARVs are typically located either in an above ground enclosure, or below grade manhole or vault, they may not be sufficiently maintained or replaced until they fail or become clogged. Failures associated with wastewater ARVs can result in sewage spills, odors, and other unpleasant events. It’s therefore essential for utilities to perform routine
inspection, maintenance, and replacement to prevent overflows from occurring.
As part of the Sarasota County (county) capacity, management, operations and maintenance (CMOM) program, Hazen and Sawyer (Hazen) worked with the county to implement a fast-paced and proactive program for its nearly 950 ARVs located on wastewater force mains and lift stations.
The program includes some typical (and many unique) aspects that will be summarized throughout this article, including:
John Schroeder, P.E., is an associate vice president and southeast conveyance leader for Hazen and Sawyer in Sarasota. Julie Karleskint, P.E., is a senior associate with Hazen and Sawyer in Sarasota and project manager for the Sarasota County capacity, maintenance, operations, and management program. Gregory Rouse, P.E., PMP, is the assistant utility director for Sarasota County.
S Detailed planning with digital geographic information system (GIS)-based field forms (Survey 123 and field maps) to perform field inspections with tablets or smart phones
S Field inspections and assessment of above ground and below ground ARVs
S Maintenance, cleaning, and/or replacement/ refurbishment of the ARVs as needed
S Development of live GIS web portals and graphical dashboards to view and summarize all of the field-collected data including digital photograms of every ARV site
S Documentation of all inspections in digital format to incorporate into GIS and Maximo™, the county’s computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) used for planning and scheduling
S Testing, cleaning, and repair training program
S Development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) that will be utilized by county staff for ARV maintenance and reporting
S Data integration into the county’s GIS and CMMS for future work orders associated with inspection and maintenance that follows its pipeline asset management methodologies and principles
S Development of likelihood of failure (LoF) scores with sample photographs to be utilized for prioritizing and assigning frequencies of future ARV inspection and maintenance
S Development of the sustainable future ARV program to be taken over by county maintenance staff
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Continued from page 8
Background
The county has approximately 552 mi of force mains and, as mentioned, approximately 950 ARVs. The existing force mains range in size from 2 in. to 36 in. in diameter of various material types including cast iron, ductile iron, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The ARVs are primarily located at high spots along the force mains and the discharge piping of many lift stations.
The ARVs serve three primary functions:
S Expel air during the initial filling of the force main either at start-up and/or between pump cycles.
S Slowly release gases that accumulate in the pipe at localized high points and along long flat runs to prevent the buildup of corrosive gases and blockages that can reduce the life of the force main.
S Prevent significant vacuum formation within the pipeline by allowing air into the pipeline to reduce the risk of surge
pressures and support proper filling and draining of the pipeline.
Based on these functions, properly operating ARVs are critical to the operation of the collection and transmission system; however, ARVs can also be a weak point if they are not properly maintained. Problems such as corrosion at the connection to the pipeline or vulnerability to physical damage can result in raw sewage spills and other issues.
Failing ARVs have contributed to approximately 16 percent of the raw wastewater spills that occurred in the county’s collection system from 2017 to 2022. As a result, an ARV inspection, maintenance, and improvement program was developed to reduce the risks of sanitary sewer spills and maximize the structural integrity of the county’s force mains. The first phase of the program was completed in 2022 and the second phase of the program was performed in 2024.
As part of the county’s CMOM program, a risk prioritization program for all gravity sewers, force mains, and ARVs was developed as part of the collection system asset management program (CSAMP). This included the development of criteria for ranking, prioritizing, and assigning inspection frequencies for all ARVs. The ARV program strategy involves conducting LoF and consequence of failure (CoF) analyses and resulting risk scores for each ARV in the system.
Program Development
Using data from both the county’s GIS and CMMS database, a program was developed using a global positioning system (GPS) and GIS web-based applications (ArcGIS Collector and Survey 123) to locate,
Figure 2. Tracking the dashboard filtered by date.
Table 1. Likelihood of Failure Scoring Scale
Figure 3. Above ground air release valve photos. Scores = 5, or very poor (external has severe body corrosion, internal has significant debris clogging).
photograph, and record findings that were then uploaded to the ESRI Cloud.
The inspection form incorporated existing GIS data fields, as well as other attribution and condition fields from the CMMS. This information was integrated to locate all county ARVs on a map via smartphone and/or tablet and incorporated the photos at each ARV location. The ARVs were then coded using the asset identifications (IDs) and allowed access using the ESRI web portal.
Data management was accomplished by the development of a web portal that provided the ability to sort, filter, and summarize the inspection data quickly in both tabular and geographical format. Inspections were performed in a logical sequence with numbering starting on the northwest corner, continuing east, and then south. The GIS layers could also be turned on and off in the portal to show roadways, grid numbers, force mains, gravity sewers, water bodies, aerial maps, and the ARV asset IDs. It would also
note inspection status and whether the ARV is above grade, below grade, or unknown.
Figure 1 illustrates how the dashboard is utilized to visualize the locations of ARVs, the inspection details, photos captured before and after the inspection, recommendations made, and work that was performed.
A calendar tool, as shown in Figure 2, was utilized to visualize data and statistics associated with the inspections based on dates. The dashboard was also helpful to
Continued on page 12
Figure 4. Above ground air release valve photos. Scores = 4, or poor (external has moderate body corrosion, internal may have moderate debris clogging, isolation valve needs to be replaced).
Figure 5. Above ground air release valve photos. Scores = 3, or fair (body has minor corrosion, pipe and air release valve are tilted, moderate debris found inside air release valve).
Figure 6. Above ground air release valve photos. Scores = 2, or good (air release valve body is good, minor issues such as rusted support or soil buildup, internal debris is minor).
Figure 7. Above ground air release valve photos. Scores = 1, or excellent (like new and riser pipe and isolation valve look new, little to no debris inside).
track where, how many, and what type of inspections/replacements were completed for any given time frame.
As part of the inspections, ARVs were given the same CoF rating from 1 to 5 as the connected force main. The key aspects of the CoF are the volume of water that could spill from that location and the proximity to sensitive environmental (e.g., water bodies) and social elements nearby. The LoF was determined during the field inspection using a scoring system from 1 to 5 as noted in Table 1 with examples of various conditions provided. Figures 3 through 7 provide example photos of each score for above ground ARVs.
Air Release Valve Condition Likelihood of Failure Scores
The following is a summary of the condition scores of the ARVs for the above ground ARVs (Table 2) and the below ground ARVs (Table 3). The LoF scores are based on the CSAMP scoring system as follows: 1 =
excellent, 2 = good, 3 = fair, 4 = poor, and 5 = very poor.
Table 2 shows a summary of conditions found during the inspection (“as inspected”) and then the revised conditions after many above ground ARVs were replaced. The above ground ARVs were replaced, where feasible, if the “as inspected” LoF score was 3, 4, or 5.
For the ARVs that were replaced, the LoF was typically reset to 1. If the ARV was replaced and there were other ancillary issues with the site (enclosures, pipes, valves), the new condition LoF score was given a score of 2 or 3 depending on the severity of the issues. For example, if the isolation valve is in poor condition and needs replacement, the new score would be 3. Consequently, the percentage distribution after replacement indicates that the majority (82 percent) of the ARVs are in excellent (1) or good (2) condition.
Table 3 presents a summary of the below ground ARV LoF condition scores. As the table indicates, approximately 74 percent were scored from 3 to 5 and recommended for replacement in a prioritized fashion.
Initially, in 2022, all the below grade ARVs were only externally visually inspected from above ground and thus the internal condition of the ARVs was unknown. It was also noted the several ARVs were below water in the manhole/vault and thus could not be visually assessed. As the county continues this program, however, it’s now replacing ARVs with scores of 4 or 5 for both the above ground and below ground ARVs. In 2024, the second phase of the ARV program was conducted, which included a detailed assessment and replacement of all below ground and above ground ARVs.
Large-Diameter Force Mains
The Hazen team is also performing a more detailed analysis of the larger force mains (24 in. and larger) and will collaborate with the ARV manufacturer to evaluate the size and type of ARV for each of these valves located on the 24-in. and larger force mains and even evaluate the potential for elimination of a particular ARV, which would likely require a more detailed surge analysis.
In the ongoing program, the team will conduct an evaluation of other locations where valves should be upsized or where a combination valve can be converted to an air-release-only function. The proper sizing and function of an ARV along a force main requires a detailed analysis of numerous factors including:
S Pipe diameter
S Velocity
S Pressure
S Pipe profile
S Surge analysis results
S Known gas binding
The hydraulic models can be used to serve as the basis for surge models that are critical to understanding the need for and sizes of combination ARVs since these valves are explicitly modeled as part of the surge analysis and enable the modeler to see the impacts of the ARV on surge pressures. Valves can be shut in the model to determine if the combination feature can be modified to be air release only.
In addition to the modeling, internal acoustic inspection tools and ongoing preventive maintenance inspections can help identify where gas buildup is occurring and not being released fast enough. In some cases, the problem is debris and grease buildup, but it can also mean that the slow-release orifice is too small.
The evaluations should be prioritized on the larger force mains with high CoF, but
Table 2. Above Ground Air Release Valve Condition Summary
also areas where there have been problems with surge pressures, where PM inspections have shown consistent gas accumulation or where pump run times may indicate high losses in the force main that can be due to air blockages.
Air Release Valve Program Key Performance Indicators
The ARV inspection and replacement program provides many benefits to the operation of the collection system and reduces the risk of ARV failures and corresponding sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). The county is tracking these benefits on an annual basis with several key performance indicators (KPIs) including:
S SSOs per year related to ARVs
S SSOs per year greater than 1000 gal related to ARVs
S Inspections of ARVs per year
S Replacement of ARVs per year
Air Release Valve Inspection Frequencies
Initial Inspection Frequencies
Hazen developed an initial recommendation frequency for future inspections, which initially should have a frequency of six months or one year. The inspection data collected from 2022 was used as the primary initial basis for these recommended frequencies.
Process to Adjust Inspection Frequencies
As the county takes over this program, the critical information will be stored in Maximo and utilized to schedule future inspections. It will be responsible for organizing inspections and giving them to the ARV inspection crews.
Depending on the amount of debris inside the ARV and the overall condition of the body of the ARV, the inspector will provide a recommendation to keep the same frequency, increase the frequency, or decrease the frequency. This is extremely beneficial to maximize the efficiency of the program and minimize ARV failures.
Importing Data Into the Geogrpahic Information System and Maximo
It’s important that the data gathered as part of this project be imported into either GIS or Maximo (or both). Unfortunately,
on page 14
Recommendation
1.Enclosure Venting
2.Manhole Venting
Prevent gases from accumulating
4.Protect High-Risk Above Grade ARV Enclosures
Prevent gases from accumulating
Prevent cars and maintenance equipment from damaging enclosures/ARVs and potentially causing SSOs.
5.Use Stainless Steel Fittings
6.Importing Data into GIS and Maximo
7.Standardized Inspection, Maintenance, and Replacement Procedures
8.Failure Code Edits
Reduce corrosion of riser pipes, fittings, and valves.
9.Large-Diameter Force Main/Larger ARV Evaluation
Review and implement importing recommendations
Provide detailed ARV maintenance procedures and frequencies for future Maximo work orders.
Implement changes to the Maximo failure codes to be more thorough and detailed.
Explanation
Drill holes into the enclosures at locations where ARVs are activated frequently and observed to have adverse effects on the ARV body or internal parts. Older enclosures were replaced with new vented enclosures.
Replace solid manhole covers with vented covers at locations where ARVs are activated frequently and observed to have adverse effects on the ARV body or internal parts. If gases become a public complaint issue, this must be addressed with additional means and methods.
Historically, some ARVs have been damaged by cars and lawn mowers, which have caused unwanted sewer discharges and created emergency work orders.
Stainless steel is more expensive, but lasts longer and requires less future maintenance. The PVC can get very brittle over time in the heat. Highdensity polyethylene is a corrosionresistant material, but has little strength and some valves were leaning and thus reducing its performance.
All inspections results are imported into the Maximo CMMS with recommended action items and future inspection frequencies. Future ARV inspections and maintenance will be grouped geographically by the planners/schedulers.
The SOPs for inspection, maintenance, and replacement procedure for ARVs. The inspections should be created by Maximo work orders and the future frequencies should be adjusted after each inspection based upon the findings in the field.
Modifying the existing failure codes and data schema within Maximo regarding ARVs will allow more-sophisticated and useful understanding of the condition, needs, resources and funding for the ARV program.
Identify locations where valves should be upsized and where combination valves can be converted to air release only.
Properly located, sized, and operating ARVs are critical to proper operation of the lift stations and force mains. Selecting the proper size should not be done using a table or rule of thumb. Hazen is performing an additional hydraulic analysis of these force mains and will work with the ARV manufacturers to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of larger/different ARVs.
10.Training
Train county staff to safely and properly inspect, maintain, and replace wastewater ARVs
Presentations and quick cards can be used to train staff on proper procedures for field inspection, maintenance, and replacement of ARVs.
Table 4. Air Release Valve Program Recommendations Summary
the process is not entirely straightforward since both the GIS schema and Maximo will undergo significant modifications in the next year.
Hazen, in coordination with Black and Veatch, has developed a data import plan that reflects the current status of both GIS and Maximo (except for some near-term configuration that can be performed in house). The data fields from the inspection database reflect a combination of the current GIS schema, as well as new custom fields that support the ARV program, many of which should be added to either the GIS or Maximo (or both), where GIS data writes to Maximo. Since the condition score is on a 1-to-5 scale and the current GIS schema uses a text field, a format change will be needed to support the import of the condition scores into GIS.
Hazen understands that GIS changes are not desired with the upcoming switch to the utility network, so a field format change should be strongly considered. For the initial data import, Hazen recommends that the condition scores be placed into GIS and then written to Maximo. There is no way to
automatically move data from Maximo to GIS, but this needs to change for the program to be successful as the Maximo improvements will include inspection forms to house the observation and condition scores.
Large-Diameter Force Main Air Release Valve Evaluation
As discussed previously, it was recommended that the county perform a systematic and prioritized evaluation of ARV sizing for ARVs on force mains 24 in. and larger by leveraging the hydraulic model and development of surge models. Areas with known surge issues and high CoF should be prioritized first. In some cases, transient pressure monitoring devices can be installed temporarily to identify potential surge issues and can also be used to calibrate the surge models.
Recommendations Summary
Table 4 provides a summary of the previously stated ARV program implementation recommendations.
C FACTOR
AConclusions
Force main air release valves are a critical component of the wastewater collection system for many reasons, as discussed throughout this article. As many utilities and engineers have discovered, these ARVs require a thorough and sophisticated program to properly maintain and replace them to prevent SSOs, pipe corrosion, and pipe collapses from excessive vacuum pressures.
The use of technologies, such as smartphones, tablets, GIS, web portals, dashboards, spreadsheets, and CMMS workorder systems, have enabled the county to become more efficient, organized, and most of all, proactive, with the inspection, maintenance, and replacement of these critical assets.
The importance of a detailed, thorough, consistent, and safe ARV program cannot be overstated and will provide immense benefits to all wastewater collection systems. S
A Fond Farewell
Athena Tipaldos President, FWPCOA
s my term as president of FWPCOA comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on our accomplishments and express my heartfelt gratitude for your support and dedication.
Over the past two years, we have faced challenges and celebrated successes together. From holding meetings online, developing e-certificates, adding sponsorships to our state short schools, and updating our association’s website, each achievement is a testament to our collective effort and commitment to moving FWPCOA into the future of training. I am proud of what we have accomplished and the positive impact we have made to the industry.
I want to extend my deepest thanks to all members for your enthusiasm and hard
work. Your passion and commitment have been truly inspiring and it has been an honor to work alongside you.
As I step down, I am excited to pass the torch to Kevin Shropshire. I am confident that, under his leadership, our association
will continue to thrive and achieve new heights.
Thank you once again for the incredible opportunity to serve as your president. I look forward to seeing all the great things our association will accomplish in the future. S
Peggy Guingona Transitions as FSAWWA Executive Director to New Role at the Section
Marjorie Guillory Craig
Peggy Guingona has become one of the most important faces of FSAWWA during the 17 years in which she has been leading the FSAWWA office. This is almost at odds with the fact that she does not like attention. She does not like having a fuss made about her; she finds that embarrassing. She does not want any hoopla or spotlight to mark the fact that she is stepping back as the executive director of the section. She has no interest in articles about her, or grand
parties to celebrate her success; she simply wants to serve. So much so that while she knows she could retire, she is choosing not to retire. She wants to continue to serve the section and the industry and will do so in another role, where she will continue to lend her expertise, passion, and dedication. We are so very lucky and truly blessed to have her continuing to serve in any role.
Although she prefers to remain out of the spotlight, we want to honor her and her leadership that helped elevate the organization
to its current level of excellence. Her dedication and leadership have been instrumental in shaping who we are today.
In gathering information for this article, many of the comments brought tears to my eyes, as I remembered how we have evolved through the years and Peggy’s role in helping transform the section. This became even clearer to me when I served as the section chair this year and attended many AWWA events, whether virtually or in person, when the Florida Section was often recognized and highlighted for input or honors.
Peggy is more than the section executive director—she is our rock, our section “mom,” the person to turn to, whether things are going right or wrong. She has been a trusted confidant, a source of joy and celebration, a strategic partner, and an unparalleled resource for all things FSAWWA. She has been there when I needed her for questions, both big and small.
On a personal level, I will deeply miss her in her current role, but am thrilled to continue working with her as she transitions, with Kim Kowalski stepping into the executive director position to fulfil our succession plan.
Over the years, Peggy’s quiet strength, personal influence, and expertise have resulted in countless awards for the section and several personal awards. Among her many accolades are:
S Jack Hoffbuhr Award
The FSAWWA staff (left to right) are Kim Kowalski, incoming executive director; Jenny Arguello, section coordinator; Donna Metherall, training/events coordinator; Peggy Guingona, outgoing executive director; and Casey Cumiskey, membership/certification coordinator.
The 2023 induction of Greg Taylor (center) as FSAWWA chair. Peggy (far left) coordinates everything related to all the awards, board of governors meetings, annual meetings, and officers.
The 2024 ”Water Matters” Fly-In held in Washington, D.C. Peggy coordinates everything with the association and helps support attendees during the event.
S Allen B Roberts Award
S Robert L. Claudy Award
These are all well-earned and reflective of her exceptional leadership.
In the Beginning
Peggy’s journey with FSAWWA started in 2007 when she was hired by Rob Teegarden and Matt Alvarez as the office manager. She was later promoted to executive director when the headquarters staff was reorganized. A testament to her servant leadership approach is the longevity and harmony of the working relationship of the headquarters team, who have all been working together since 2010. Peggy first hired Casey Cumiskey and Jenny Arguello in 2009, adding Donna Metherall in 2010.
Beyond FSAWWA, Peggy treasures her role as a mother to her daughters, Jenny Arguello and Melanie Koffler, and as a grandmother to Nicole, Zac, Jadan, and Jessica (who all hung the moon!). She also has a precious great-grandson, Isaiah, who holds a special place in her heart.
Memories and Accolades
have about Peggy could have more than filled am entire issue of this magazine, and there will be many of us who will prefer to send sentiments privately and personally to her over the coming weeks and months.
Despite Peggy’s preference to remain behind the scenes, we feel compelled to honor her immeasurable contributions and the transformative impact she has had on our organization.
What follows is a collection of thoughts and reflections from some of the Executive Committee members of FSAWWA and colleagues across the association. While these words only scratch the surface of our admiration and gratitude for Peggy, they reflect just a fraction of the outpouring of appreciation she so richly deserves.
The many thoughts and reflections we all
These by no means will be the last. To be clear—Peggy is not leaving; she is transitioning to a new role, and we are so blessed she is staying with us and will continue to be part of our FSAWWA family!
Kim Kowalski, FSAWWA Deputy Executive Director
No one has been more instrumental in inspiring me to get and stay involved in FSAWWA than Peggy and Rick Ratcliffe. Peggy is an invaluable asset to FSAWWA, not only for her knowledge, but also for her ability to make everyone feel like family. Working with Peggy through the years on the conference and other events led me to consider serving
the organization at the next level and I will be trying to fill some very large and beautiful shoes!
Geneva Hudkins, Virginia Section AWWA Executive Director
As we all know, Peggy’s impact and willingness to help is hard to put into words. She has always been there for me from day one. She assisted me when I first came into my role as section staff and mentored me along the way. She is always ready to help anyone and everyone regardless of what she has going on and has a listening ear and words of wisdom for anyone who needs it. She is a consummate professional who pushes all of us to do better and be our very best. Her legacy will continue for years to come. Peggy’s guidance and support have shaped me in so ways I cannot express. She has been a mentor, a friend, and a true leader, consistently
Continued on page 18
Peggy (fourth from left) at an AWWA Annual Conference with association staff and Eddy, the Water Drop.
Peggy built lifelong friendships with other executive directors across the country. Left to right are Geneva Hudkins, Virginia Section executive director; Peggy; and Kay Sanborn, Tennessee-Kentucky Section executive director.
Peggy in action.
lifting everyone in AWWA to greater heights. Her dedication and wisdom have left a lasting impact, and we are all better for having worked alongside her. I wish her a wonderful transition, filled with the joy she has given us.
David LaFrance, Chief Executive Officer, AWWA
Peggy is a real game-changer. She has the gift of making everyone around her feel special and important. The Florida Section members value her, and her peers—the other section staff leaders—seek her wisdom. On a personal note, it has been great fun to have the opportunity to work with Peggy.
Peggy has been an invaluable contributor to the Florida Section and AWWA headquarters.
I can’t remember a FSAWWA without her. Her passion, determination, and chutzpah make her an invaluable asset to both organizations. Peggy will live long in our hearts!
Greg Taylor, Past Section Chair (2022-2023)
Peggy has been a supporter, constructive critic, life coach, motherly figure, and friend, all while managing the ever-growing group of personalities from around the section, and sometimes within ourselves. Having her guide us and walk this journey with us over the last 16 years has truly been a blessing.
Mark Lehigh, Florida Water Resources Conference President and Past Section Chair (2015)
I certainly don’t have anything new to share that everyone doesn’t already know about Peggy. First and foremost, she is family. She has always taken the time to know each of us and
our families personally. We love her and she takes care of us as AWWA family. From guiding us in what we do every day to helping with hotels, meetings, travel, and herding us toward all the right outcomes. Without Peggy coming in at the time she did, I’m sure this organization would look much different—and not in a better way. She has been the light that has guided us for the last several decades. We are respected and looked to as a resource by other AWWA sections because of her hard work and the relationships she has built. Her influence is not just a Florida phenomenon—it’s a national treasure. I could share many personal experiences about Peggy, but I think it would be much easier to say that when you need her, she is somehow always there helping, guiding, and doing it all from the heart. I selfishly I hope in my heart of hearts she continues to be a part of our family forever. If I had a vote I would vote no for her transition!
Bill Young, General Policy Director and Past Section Chair (2018)
I have been involved with FSAWWA since winning the Roy Likins Scholarship in 1993. Since that time, I have met many water professionals who have become good friends. Meeting Peggy was a highlight of my relationship with the section. She is completely unselfish, and willing to help you succeed. She has not only become a trusted friend, but has become important to my entire family. Quite simply, she is the best, and extremely critical to the success of our wonderful section!
Tyler Tedcastle, Section Vice-Chair
My favorite story would be from the Florida Water Resources Conference (FWRC) in, I believe, 2013 (when Jason Parrillo was chair). As the Young Professionals (YP) Committee chair, we had planned a happy hour with FWEA since the FWRC staff had cancelled the event at the last minute the year prior. At
At the 2024 Tallahassee Fly-In.
Peggy at a meeting at AWWA headquarters in Denver. At the 2023
D.C. Fly-In. Peggy photo bombed us at breakfast—so cute!
this FWRC, staff once again did not include the YP happy hour on the calendar. In a lastminute rush, Peggy asked me to see if we could find any sponsorships for a small networking event. After grabbing three sponsors, we went out to the lobby bar at the Marriott Renaissance with the intent of hosting 20 to 30 young (and seasoned) professionals. Two hours and over 100 people later (including YPs, students, seasoned professionals, and board members from FSAWWA), we successfully threw the most-attended in-person YP networking event to date. This couldn’t have happened without Peggy taking the initiative to make sure we had a successful event. To top it off, we almost gave Jason a heart attack when we joked with him about the bill being over $10,000 (it was not).
Mike Bailey, Past Section Chair (2019)
If someone were to ask me why the Florida Section has been so successful in its mission to support the water community, I would first point to Peggy and her team. Board members change, regional officers come and go, and they are all important parts of the section, but Peggy is the one constant that has supported the section and championed the mission for 16 years. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to not only work with Peggy in an
official capacity with FSAWWA, but to be able to call her a friend.
Peggy is the best travel partner. When I first started at FSAWWA, I hadn’t traveled much, and my first trip was to Las Vegas for the AWWA Membership Summit. Peggy knew I hadn’t been there before, so she gave me tips and tricks of what to see in the city. On future trips, she always made sure I was comfortable: that I booked a nice room, had good meals, and that I was introduced to volunteers and staff from Florida and other sections so I felt included. Thanks to her, it wasn’t long before I was comfortable traveling on my own— but I still always prefer it when we get to go together!
Donna
Metherall,
FSAWWA Training/ Events Coordinator
When Peggy interviewed me in 2010, I remember walking into the office feeling a bit nervous and walking out knowing that I had to work for her! And I’m so very grateful I do. Peggy not only gave me the guidance I needed to thrive in my new role, but also offered support whenever I felt uncertain.
She very quickly turned into my work mom, and because she is the way she is, I never missed a school function for my daughter. Having the same staff for over 14 years says more about Peggy than it does about me, Jenny, and Casey.
Jenny Arguello, FSAWWA Coordinator
Though titles shift, my love remains A guiding hand through life’s domains
In meetings, you lead with grace
At home, your love fills every space
A mother’s heart, a leader’s might
My boss, my mom, my guiding light.
Moving Forward
As Peggy transitions into a part-time support role with the section in January 2025, we are thrilled to welcome Kim Kowalski as our new executive director. With such an outstanding headquarters team, FSAWWA is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence and growth.
What an incredible team we are privileged to have going forward. I cannot wait to see what the future holds with our section team and our dedicated volunteers! S
Membership Is What Connects Us!
Thank You, Members!
AWWA is celebrating you—the dedicated members who make what we do possible.
Your unwavering support and commitment are the backbone of the water community. Every day, you work tirelessly to ensure our communities have safe and clean water, making a true difference in people’s lives. We are profoundly grateful for all you do and celebrate all you have accomplished.
Help us continue the connections that empower us and the shared vision—a better world through better water—that unites us.
Thank you for being an integral part of the AWWA community!
AWWA members can save 20% off a bookstore purchase between November 1 and December 31, 2024. Use code THANKYOU* to save. *Exclusions may apply.
Celebrating Our Volunteers: A Year Full of Achievements, Notably
Representation on FlaWARN and Deployment of Utility Support After Hurricanes Helene and Milton
GMarjorie Guillory Craig, P.E. Chair, FSAWWA
rowing up as a military brat, change was a constant in my life. Moving frequently meant adapting to new environments, but amid the flux, my family remained my anchor, providing stability and support through 10 different schools and many moves. This upbringing instilled in me a resilience and adaptability that has served me well throughout my career and volunteer endeavors.
My mom had a profound influence on me, emphasizing the importance of giving back to both my profession and the community. I miss her and my dad every day. My mom had us learn to swim about the time we could walk, and I grew up as a pool rat: on the swim, dive, and water polo teams, and lifeguarding and managing swimming pools throughout high school and college. I look back now and see I must have been destined for the water industry.
My involvement with FSAWWA spans many years, during which I have held various positions in the organization as a volunteer and as a board member, each offering unique opportunities to contribute to our section’s mission. From serving in Region IV as deputy regional trustee (the previous name for regional vice chair) to this year’s position as chair of the statewide organization, every role has been rewarding in its own right. It’s difficult to pinpoint a favorite, as each position has allowed me to make meaningful contributions and forge lasting connections with fellow members.
As my tenure as chair comes to a close, I reflect with gratitude on the incredible accomplishments achieved by our volunteers and headquarters team members. Together, we have delivered countless impactful training sessions, earned prestigious awards for our section at the association level, hosted the FSAWWA Fall Conference, cohosted the Florida Water Resources Conference, and launched a communications plan starting with media training. This year holds special significance as it marks the final year that our cherished Peggy Guingona will serve as executive director. She will be passing the baton to Kim Kowalski, the current deputy executive
director, as a part of our transition plan. We are truly fortunate that Peggy has expressed a desire to continue to share her expertise and dedication by remaining on staff in a support role—a tremendous blessing for the entire section.
Serving as chair has been a truly humbling experience. While I have always known that FSAWWA is comprised of exceptional individuals who form our volunteer and headquarters teams, this year it was even more apparent. From the dedicated team at headquarters, led by Peggy and Kim, to the steadfast support of our Executive Committee, board of governors, and every volunteer, I am consistently inspired by the collective dedication and passion that drives our organization forward. It is an honor to be part of such an extraordinary team.
Reflecting on the past year, I have found myself remarking on the fleeting nature of time nearly every month I have put this column together. Some of you know that I underwent spinal fusion in April, a necessity that unfortunately came at a challenging time. Anyone in my situation understands that surgery is only pursued when absolutely necessary. I am deeply grateful for the
My mom and dad were college sweethearts. Mom was my inspiration for volunteerism and a lifelong swimmer, lettering in college and often swimming a mile or more a day until ALS restricted her.
My dad (at Morgan Park Military Academy) was a career military officer with two tours in Vietnam while we were growing up as itinerant military brats and water rats. Marjie in swim cap.
In high school.
unwavering support of my Village of Tequesta manager Jeremy Allen (my boss) along with Peggy and Kim (often they were also my bosses!), as well as my husband, Karl. While this was not how I envisioned the year unfolding, I did not have to worry about the impact on the section thanks to the strong structure of our organization and the solid support of our headquarters team. Additionally, at this year’s AWWA Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE24), the association made it easy for me to get a motorized scooter. Karl, who also loves this organization deeply and has been affectionately adopted by many of you as an honorary member, served as my chauffeur and pack mule since it was months before I was allowed to lift more than 10 pounds.
Thank You to the Volunteers of our Association and Industry!
Most importantly, it was you, the volunteers and headquarters team, who kept the train on the tracks and moved the ball forward for our organization and the industry as a whole. At the association level, I gained a deeper appreciation for the respect that FSAWWA holds among other sections. This is a testament to the leadership that came before me, our members who volunteer at the association level, and most significantly, our exceptional headquarters team. Thank you for making this journey so meaningful and fulfilling. It has been incredibly rewarding to work alongside such passionate and talented individuals and witness the impact of our collective efforts.
FlaWARN: Friends Helping Friends
Our very own section chair-elect, Lisa Wilson-Davis, coined the term “friends helping friends” to describe Florida Water and Wastewater Agency Response Network (FlaWARN), and the response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton exemplified that phrase. In my column last month, as Hurricane Milton approached, I shared what FlaWARN is, how far it has come, and the importance of joining and putting a mutual aid agreement in place.
Kevin Carter, current chair of the FlaWARN Steering Committee and section treasurer, provided an update on the response to the recent hurricanes.
Kevin reported Helene was a bad hurricane, with 20-foot-high floodwaters decimating the Big Bend area that was just impacted by Hurricane Debby in July 2024 and Hurricane Idalia in 2023. Orange County sent 12 people to Tallahassee, jockeying around generators for lift stations and assisting other areas afterwards. The City of Tallahassee, once on its feet, began helping out as well. Toho Water Authority, which sent 30 people
Lifeguard/pool manager in Texas with high school girlfriends (Marjie at far left).
Head lifeguard at Texas A&M at the Wofford T. Cain Swimming Complex.
Karl says this is one of my “Girl from Texas with Tall Hair” pictures. I’m at Tampa’s Agam Fountain (now dismantled).
The Tampa Water Department took over maintenance of the city’s fountains in the 1990s as a part of its duties and we had to troubleshoot its operations.
to assist Pinellas County, bounced back and sent a team to Big Bend. Gainesville Regional Utilities and Clay County Utility Authority also provided valuable assistance during these events. This exemplifies the resiliency of these utilities and the legacy that the early FlaWARN organization has left, which was originally led by Scott Kelly (formerly of JEA and West Palm Beach), and Gary Willams (formerly with Florida Rural Water Association [FRWA]). Kevin referred to the utilities that responded as true “water heroes,” moving to the aid of those in need.
The impacts of Milton (“Uncle Milty”) were even worse as it hit a more heavily populated area. Orange County and Toho Water Authority were hit with Milton as a Category 2 hurricane, but were able to rebound to assist other utilities on the west coast. Other utilities that sent teams included Gainesville Regional Utilities, Clay County Utility Authority, Boynton Beach, Bonita Springs Regional Utilities, and JEA, which sent about 30 people to assist other utilities. The City of Margate assisted Gasparilla Island, which was all but swept away by the storm; the roads and many pipes are gone and Margate utilities provided support. Palm Beach County assisted with some needs from the impacts on the east coast of Florida, including Vero Beach, Daytona Beach, and Martin County, which experienced some crazy tornadoes, and other wind and water impacts.
Kevin stressed that FlaWARN could not do what it does without FRWA—during both blue skies and dark skies. Understandably, Florida did not get as many support teams from other states because of Helene’s impact throughout the region; however, after Hurricane Milton, rural water associations from Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama provided assistance. He also thanked the University of Florida TREEO Center for its administrative assistance during both responses. He also stressed the importance of the support and partnership of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, including Shawn Hamilton, secretary; Jessica Kramer, deputy secretary; and John Coates, water resources management director. Their super large and engaged support team were our eyes and ears at the State of Florida Emergency Operations Center and had boots on the ground after the storms. We thank them for their commitment and diligence in supporting FlaWARN and its utilities.
Upcoming FSAWWA Events:
Get Involved and Help
Grow Industry Involvement!
Starting December 8, the annual FSAWWA Fall Conference will be held at the Omni
Continued on page 26
In my early days in the industry, I was chair of the Teleconference Committee and deputy regional trustee (now vice chair) of Region IV. Marjie Craig and Blake Guillory II. Amanda Guillory and Marjie Craig.
Orlando Resort at Championsgate. Do not miss the annual incoming chair’s reception and BBQ, where I will help celebrate the incoming chair, Lisa Wilson-Davis. She is a tireless volunteer who has become a friend, who, if you know her, gets things done. I will be turning over the reins (and the traditional tiara) to her at the annual FSAWWA business meeting on Wednesday at the conference and her tenure starts in January of 2025. She has contributed substantially to
this year’s successes and she will hit the ground running.
Here are some key events coming up to consider attending:
S Saturday, December 14 - Region IV Young Professionals Tailgate, Tampa
S Wednesday, January 8 - “Water Bugs” Lunchtime Learning Webinar
S Saturday, January 18 - Region VI Beer for Us/Water For People, West Palm Beach
S Friday, January 24 - Region III – Texas Hold‘em Event, Orlando
S Wednesday, February 5 - “Water Bugs” Lunchtime Learning Webinar
S Friday, February 28 - Region III Sponsor Appreciation and Networking Event, Orlando
Beyond these events, FSAWWA continues to focus on strengthening the water industry through various initiatives, and stay tuned: the Manufacturers/Associates Council has some exciting training events coming up. We need you and appreciate everything that you do for our section and the industry!
Thank you to everyone who has supported the section and me over the years, and this year in particular. I look forward to continuing my involvement—I can’t help it! It seems to be in my DNA!
My Water Story
I’m a “Water Chick.” I’ve always loved water. I don’t know if it’s because I was born a Pisces, but hey, it may have contributed. Even my personal email address has water chick in it.
Ralph Metcalf, long-time department director in Tampa (sewer), called me “WG” for Water Goddess; for a nickname, I can think of worse, that’s for sure. For your amusement, here are some pictures—me, my family, friends, and colleagues—through the years, mostly connected with water, usually working with or around it.
I started as a small child; my love for water came early. That’s me with my mom’s swim cap on—stylin’ already. It’s a far cry from the Tyr and Speedo caps that came later. I competed on swim teams (not Olympic material, but fun), where I swam laps daily to keep in shape and learned some of the basics of water chemistry.
As I grew up, I was a total water rat, living at the pool, or just hanging out, inventing my own water aerobics before that was a thing. I was a lifeguard at school, in Japan and in Texas, including at Texas A&M, where I was a head lifeguard and also worked for one of my college professors.
My kids, Blake and Amanda, grew up going to water industry-related meetings, conferences, and events.
Dave Tippin, who was the director of the Tampa Water Department for nearly 30 years, still got us together after we left (The Water Gang) and we all still miss him. These colleagues are part of my “Water Family” (Yes, I’m Over Capitalizing, Dave, for Emphasis!)
Thank you to the Village of Tequesta for its support of my involvement in FSAWWA! This year is not the end of my water story—I look forward to the next chapter with you! S
Marjie Craig and Dr. Bina Nayak at an FSAWWA Fall Conference. Bina volunteers not only at the state level, but also at the association level, along with others, outside of AWWA.
The Water Gang (left to right): Kathy Fry, Marjie Craig, and Dave Tippin photo bombing us.
Drop, at ACE06 in San Antonio.
The Water Gang (from left): Bill Schmiedecke, India Williams (yes, she hates photos and will kill me), Mark Oural, Kathy Fry, Marjie Craig, and Dave Tippin.
Marjie and Karl at a local water park before I was injured. I still love the water!
Safety first! Being a pirate still involves water to an extent!
The Importance of Risk-Based Prioritization of Gravity and Manhole Lining to Reduce Inflow and Infiltration
John “Jack” Walsh, Donnie Howard, and Kunal Nayee
The City of Cocoa (city) is located on the eastern side of central Florida just south of Cape Canaveral. The city maintains a service area that contains roughly 1,891 manholes, 85 mi (2,031 segments) of gravity mains, and 53 sewer basins. The city operates the Jerry Sellers Water Reclamation Facility (WRF), which receives the wastewater flow from the collection system. The plant has a design capacity of 4.5 mil gal per day (mgd) and received an average daily flow of 1.86 mgd in 2022 and 1.63 mgd in 2023.
Regular sewer collection system maintenance plays a vital role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of underground systems and reduced treatment costs. Over time, however, manholes and gravity mains can deteriorate due to exposure to harsh environmental conditions, aging, and heavy usage, leading to structural failures and inflow and infiltration (I/I). As a result, it’s critical to maintain and rehabilitate these systems to prevent potential problems, such as groundwater pollution, system overloading, and damage to surrounding infrastructure.
This article presents the findings of
a collection system rehabilitation project conducted by the city, which aimed to assess the condition of manholes/gravity mains, identify structural deficiencies, and recommend suitable repair and rehabilitation solutions. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring of the collection system to prevent future deterioration and ensure the long-term performance of the sewer system.
To institute the collection system rehabilitation process the city worked with various stakeholders, including management, city council, staff members, and consulting engineers, to develop a plan to address the I/I the city was experiencing. By working as a team the city was able to determine the general scope of the problem and justify the methodology with its leadership.
In 2009 the city began lining known critical gravity mains that had failed, resulting in backups and other maintenance issues. During this time, the WRF experienced increased maximum daily flows (MDFs) primarily due to rainfalldependent I/I. With their current institutional knowledge and experience, the sewer crews were
John “Jack” Walsh, P.E., is utilities director, and Donnie Howard is WFO/SFO manager, with City of Cocoa. Kunal Nayee, P.E., is project manager with Carollo Engineers Inc. in Orlando.
able to identify the initial trouble areas in the system and determine the city was in need of a proactive and comprehensive plan that would address the failures in the system while also reducing emergency repairs. The city continued its sewer lining program, but recognized it needed a more robust system assessment and a thorough comprehensive approach.
Assessment Methodology
In 2013, the city contracted with a closed-circuit television (CCTV) vendor to provide a comprehensive assessment of the system. The city has a staff that is capable of performing CCTV assessments of the gravity system; however, the amount of CCTV work that needed to be completed by a single crew was not an efficient use of the sewer field operation team’s limited time and competed with the reactive unscheduled critical repair work. Contracting the CCTV work through a third-party vendor provided the labor to physically assess all gravity mains and score the mains in a manner consistent with the National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO) pipeline assessment and certification (PACP) methodology. The PACP and the manhole assessment and certification program (MACP) are widely used in the sewer industry to assess and categorize the condition of underground pipelines, manholes, and lateral connections. The PACP process involves using a standardized coding system to document the pipeline’s condition, including defects such as cracks, joint offsets, and root intrusion. The data are then analyzed to determine the pipeline’s overall condition and allow the decision-making team the ability to develop a rehabilitation plan. The MACP process
is similar to PACP, but is used specifically to assess the condition of manholes, which includes documentation of structural defects and I/I, among other issues. The data collected are used to prioritize repair and rehabilitation efforts and to ensure the manhole meets safety and regulatory requirements.
The MACP process is broken down into two levels:
S The Level 1 MACP assessment is a visual inspection of the manhole that includes documenting basic information about the manhole, such as its location, size, and material, as well as assessing the structural condition of the manhole at key points in the manhole.
S The Level 2 MACP assessment is a more detailed assessment that involves additional information, including depth of the manhole, evidence of surcharge, cover type and insert condition, and chimney, cone, wall, bench, and channel condition. The added information from the Level 2 assessment, while more costly, would benefit the city’s long-term goal of having a digital twin of its collection system.
Overall, the NASSCO PACP and MACP processes provide a standardized approach to assess the condition of sewer infrastructure, allowing for better decision making and more efficient use of resources. The data collected through these programs were used to develop a targeted maintenance and rehabilitation plan
that the city sought to accomplish its proactive maintenance needs.
The CCTV effort was performed in 2013 and the data were provided to a consulting engineer to develop the initial five-year plan for the curedin-place pipe (CIPP) program. The first five-
Continued on page 30
We see more in water—more than the science, more than the planning, and more than the design. We see the families and communities we serve, and the increasingly fragile ecosystems we must protect.
For over 90 years, we’ve been inspired to safeguard the quality of life for all communities, developing the most innovative solutions in the water industry. It just doesn’t get any bigger than that.
Figure 2. Jerry Sellers Water Reclamation Facility influent average and maximum daily flows.
Continued from page 29
year plan included only gravity main lining and cleaning, as that was deemed the highest priority. The initial plan was implemented in 2015 with the goal to address all major structural defects in the system. Gravity mains were prioritized based on their critical structural defects, as well as critical operation and maintenance (O&M) issues. Gravity mains with critical or significant structural and O&M scores would be candidates for the lining program.
The gravity system phased approach was started in 2015 and continued to 2023. In 2018, as the first five-year plan was close to completion, the city instituted the MACP assessment plan with the same CCTV vendor as the gravity assessment. The data collection effort took roughly one year to complete and the results were provided to the consulting engineer. A similar approach was developed for the manhole lining effort, where structural and O&M issues were of the highest importance.
To help prioritize the lining effort, a likelihood of failure (LoF) and consequence of failure (CoF) scoring methodology was used for the assessment. The LoF refers to the probability that an asset will fail or not meet its performance objectives during its expected service life. The
LoF is typically assessed based on a variety of factors, such as the asset’s age, condition, and maintenance history, as well as the operating environment and usage patterns. A higher LoF indicates a greater risk that the asset will not perform as intended and may require repair or replacement.
The CoF refers to the potential impact or consequences of an asset failing or not meeting its performance objectives. This impact may be in terms of financial, environmental, or social costs, such as loss of revenue, environmental contamination, or disruption of critical services. The CoF is typically assessed based on the severity of the impact and the likelihood of occurrence. By combining the LoF and CoF assessments, the team was able to prioritize the maintenance and replacement strategies to minimize risk and ensure critical assets function effectively and efficiently.
The overall process the city followed is summarized in Figure 1. The first step in the cycle is to have a baseline dataset, which was provided by Redzone Robotics in 2014. The MACP and PACP data were incorporated into LoF and CoF analyses that prioritized gravity mains and manholes in the collection system for the lining.
The LoF and CoF analyses also considered
the various PACP and MACP coding specific to structural defects to aid in the prioritization:
S First, the PACP NASSCO structural scores that were coded with structural 4 or 5 and were located in critical areas were considered the highest priority.
S Second, surveys that had to be abandoned due to offset joints, defective or intruding taps, and grease deposits were grouped for rehabilitation through point repair or additional cleaning.
S Third, blockages of at least 10 percent were added to the CIP program.
S Fourth, sags in the gravity mains and I/I runners or gushers were grouped together for rehabilitation. The MAPC scores were prioritized in a similar manner. The structural scores of 4 and 5 that were observed on the channel or walls of the manhole were grouped in the first phases of the projects. The O&M deposits considered a 4 or 5 were grouped in the following phase.
S Lastly, manholes with surcharge and I&I evidence were prioritized along with manholes with brick construction.
In parallel, the city staff utilized sewer line rapid assessment tool equipment to proactively assess the O&M status of the mains for subsequent jetting and cleaning of the gravity system annually. This has reduced the need for third-party vendors to provide similar services to the city.
After the PACP and MACP analysis is performed, the capital improvement program (CIP) is developed, preselected vendors are provided with the CIP selection, and the projects are then budgeted and implemented for the following fiscal year. Part of the lining vendor’s contract is to use CCTV on completed gravity mains and provide the files to the city for review. The files are then provided to Redzone to recode with current NASSCO scoring standards and are updated in the overall database. This provides the city and the engineer with a current database, with current and visible data available to the team.
Results
The sewer lining program’s main purpose was to alleviate emergency rehabilitation work and excessive flows to the WRF during normal operations and reduce I/I to the wastewater treatment plant. After nine years of lining the city infrastructure in a proactive and comprehensive method, the results of the plant influent flows were
Table 1. 2017-2023 Sellers Influent Flow
Table 2. 10-Year Collection System Maintenance Program Costs
determined and are shown in Figure 2. The MDFs at the WRF, as well as the total rainfall measured by the closest rain gauge to the city, were compared from 2016 to 2023. The graph shows the MDFs fluctuated in 2016 and 2017 and then began to trend downward from 2018 to 2021, with a spike in 2022 as a result of Hurricane Ian, which affected the sewer flows to the WRF. This result, from a macro perspective, shows a correlation between the city’s cleaning and lining efforts. The city has not experienced any recordable sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) during the previous nine-year period and MDFs into the plant have decreased by an average of 1.2 percent over the past nine years.
During extreme weather conditions, plant flows are difficult to maintain. For example, during Hurricane Ian in September 2022, the WRF received an MDF of 6.36 mgd over three days and Hurricane Milton in October 2024 resulted in an MDF of 4.45 mgd. The WRF design treatment capacity is 4.5 mgd, and with the removal of the extreme weather flows from the data (i.e., hurricanes), the average change in influent flow to the WRF decreased by 2.9 percent from 2017 to 2023, and the MDFs decreased an average of 18 percent over the same period.
Program Costs
Over a 10-year period, the CIPP lining program demonstrated a significant investment in pipeline rehabilitation. Total expenditures for CIPP lining amounted to $3.213 million, with annual costs fluctuating between $205,000 and $448,000. This variability was the result of high inflation experienced after the 2020 fiscal year period. The city has invested approximately $6.739 million in the collection system maintenance and repair efforts.
The overall investment in CIPP lining underscores its importance as a primary method for extending the lifespan and functionality of the pipeline infrastructure; the CIPP lining is more cost-effective than full pipe replacements, which are more sporadic and expensive. While the program is a significant investment for the city, it has resulted in no reportable SSOs, reduced flows for treatment at the WRF, and lower energy costs to transport I/I through the collection system. The team is developing a more detailed analysis of the cost savings based on the aforementioned areas using dashboards to better quantify the cost savings for the city.
Conclusions
The results of the city’s sewer lining program indicate significant improvements in managing wastewater flows and reducing the burden on the WRF. Over nine years, proactive lining efforts have effectively decreased the frequency of emergency repairs and mitigated excessive flow, contributing to a steady decline in MDFs entering the WRF. Despite some fluctuations in influent flow due to extreme weather events, such as Hurricane Ian in 2022 and Hurricane Milton in 2024, the data show a clear downward trend in flows from 2018 to 2023, with MDFs decreasing by an average of 18 percent and influent flows by 2.9 percent when excluding hurricane impacts.
The city has also maintained an impressive record of zero SSOs during this period, demonstrating the effectiveness of the lining program in strengthening system resilience. Overall, these results highlight the program’s success in sustainably managing inflows and protecting water treatment resources under both typical and extreme conditions. S
May 4-7, 2025 @ West Palm Beach Convention Center ATTENDEE REGISTRATION OPENS DEC. 16, 2024
REGISTER ATTENDEES
All tickets are available including Full and One-day tickets, Exhibit Hall only, Booth staff, Speakers, Students, Retired and all add-on options such as b'fast and lunches
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Numerous sponsorship packages from $500 to $9,500 are still available. Reserve today!
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Links to book hotel rooms are available on our website, www.fwrc.org, starting December 16, 2024
Shea Dunifon JEA, Jacksonville
Work title and years of service.
I joined JEA as a program manager in January 2024. Previously, I served for seven years as the education coordinator at Pinellas County Utilities’ South Cross Bayou public education program in St. Petersburg.
What does your job entail?
I provide technical assistance to the communications associated with JEA’s H2.O Water Purification Facility (currently under construction) and to the environmental services laboratory. Mixing creativity (reviewing designs and messaging) for educational displays as part of the H2.O visitor center and technical knowledge (writing journal articles and PowerPoints), it’s a
FWRJ READER PROFILE
hybrid position. I also keep a pulse on everything related to water reuse in the various professional associations, including WateReuse Association, National Association of Clean Water Agencies, and Water Research Foundation.
While public education isn’t currently my primary role until the H2.O center opens, as a long-term goal I’m engaging with more utilities to bring Project WET (classroom-ready teaching materials on all things water) to local classrooms. Be on the lookout for training opportunities in 2025 for this amazing resource!
What education and training have you had?
I hold a master’s degree in crop and soil environmental sciences from Virginia Tech where I studied soil chemistry and fertility. After taking a soil science class as an undergraduate, I fell in love with it because it meant I could take my gardening hobby to a new level and “communicate” with my plants by visually identifying nutrient deficiencies just by looking at leaves. I know it’s nerdy, but understanding how nutrients cycle in natural systems made transitioning into the water industry, especially wastewater treatment (where the goal is to remove nutrients), easy to understand. After seven years at a water reclamation facility, I plan to take my operator C license exam in 2025.
As far as training in the water sector, most of it was “boots on the ground,” giving facility tours and teaching in classrooms.
What do you like best about your job?
Learning how utilities across Florida are adopting long-term and sustainable solutions to increasing water demands through reuse. As we
are finalizing the educational displays in JEA’s new H2.O visitor center (set to be completed in fall 2025), it’s important we capture public acceptance of water purification for future indirect potable reuse, and even direct potable reuse projects around the state. It’s inspiring to think about how our lessons learned on this project might be useful to other utilities; for instance, in meeting with stakeholders, it’s not enough to mention our potable water source is the Floridan aquifer. Most people’s knowledge of the aquifer does not entail the local geology, which is an important consideration for why water hardness might vary between two neighboring counties.
What professional organizations do you belong to?
I belong to FWEA, FSAWWA, and FWPCOA, as well as WateReuse Association because every association has a different approach to public education and outreach. From external approaches, like student art contests, to internal approaches, like operator training, all have something to get involved in. I am currently the Public Affairs Council chair for FSAWWA, past chair of the FWEA (and WEF) Public Communications and Outreach Committees, and third-year FWEA head judge for the Operations Challenge laboratory event.
How have the organizations helped your career? Being involved in the organizations has both helped me grow my network exponentially and afforded me the opportunity to join committees that usually lead to projects with cool outcomes. With the FWEA Video Contest, volunteers
Above: Family vacation to the Phillipines.
At left: Judges for the laboratory event at the 2024 WEFTEC Operations Challenge.
brought ideas and skills to the committee to create flyers, build a website for electronic submissions, and identify a theme hip enough for high school, and our growing network from all across the state helps promote the contest locally. Another example is how we grew the Region IV Model Water Tower Competition by recruiting a local high school teacher to help write lesson plans that align with state standards, making the competition easier for teachers to introduce engineering in their classrooms.
What do you like best about the industry?
I love the connection between water and our everyday lives. From a chemistry standpoint, water is the universal solvent and its properties make it crucial for living organisms, including you and me. To work in a field where I’m educating the public on something we couldn’t live without, something that also needs protecting and deserves respect, makes it feel very special to me. It also helps that I find aqueous chemistry to be fascinating as an avid gardener. Lastly, our industry is full of passionate, innovative, and fun individuals who advocate around the clock for all things water.
What do you do when you’re not working?
When I’m not working, I’m either volunteering for one of the associations (it’s impossible to say “no” to FSAWWA’s Peggy Guingona or FWEA’s Joe Paterniti), traveling (hopefully to somewhere far away with good food), or gardening. Having moved north from St. Petersburg to Jacksonville, most of my tropical plants are inside the house now, so it’s more of a “terrarium” that I currently occupy.
If anyone wants to swap Hoya plant cuttings, I’m the lady. S
What Do You Know About Membrane Technologies? Test Yourself
Charlie Lee Martin Jr., Ph.D.
1. The membrane used in water treatment with the largest pore diameter is
a. microfiltration.
b. reverse osmosis.
c. ultrafiltration.
d. nanofiltration.
2. Ultrafiltration and microfiltration can be used for the removal of
a. sediment.
b. Giardia and Cryptosporidium
c. bacteria.
d. all of the above.
3. Nanofiltration and reverse osmosis can be used for the removal of
a. pesticides.
b. arsenic.
c. nitrate.
d. all of the above.
4. Freshwater typically contains less than
a. 500 mg/l total dissolved solids (TDS).
b. 1000 mg/l TDS.
c. 1500 mg/l TDS.
d. none of the above.
5. Brackish water typically contains
a. 1,000 to 10,000 mg/l TDS.
b. 500 to 1,000 mg/l TDS.
c. 1,000 to 1500 mg/l TDS.
d. 1,500 to 2000 mg/l TDS.
6. Contaminants that size within the microparticle range are
a. humic acids.
b. viruses.
c. algae.
d. metal ions.
7. Contaminants that size within the ionic range are
a. bacteria.
b. cysts.
c. silt.
d. aqueous salts.
8. Electrodialysis is effective in removing contaminants with size ranges of
a. ionic range.
b. molecular range.
c. macro range.
d. all of the above.
9. Microfiltration is not effective in removing
a. cysts.
b. calcium ions.
c. suspended solids.
d. bacteria.
10. Ultrafiltration is not effective in removing
a. clays.
b. asbestos.
c. aqueous salts.
d. bacteria.
Answers on page 44
References used for this quiz:
• California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) Water Treatment Plant Operation Volume 2, Seventh Edition
Hoya plant up close.
WEFTEC in New Orleans: FWEA Members Relay Their Experiences
TJoe Paterniti, P.E. President, FWEA
he Water Environment Federation Technical Conference and Exhibition (WEFTEC), was held in October in New Orleans. The WEF is a global federation comprising member associations, and FWEA is its Florida member association.
FWEA Leaders at WEFTEC
Since I couldn’t attend this year’s conference, I wanted to give others who have never attended a glimpse of WEFTEC. I contacted several FWEA leaders who were there, requesting that they share their experiences.
Here are their highlights.
Kristiana Dragash, WEF Delegate at Large I arrived on Friday evening and had three beautiful days and nights of activities with my WEF friends throughout the water sector. Saturday was full of camaraderie, encouragement, and celebrating our accomplishments this year in the WEF House of Delegates (HOD) meeting.
The FWEA is now represented more than ever in the HOD! We have two delegates who represent Florida: Damaris Noriega and Jamey
delegates at large from Florida: Zachary Loeb and me. Delegates at large represent part of the water sector and WEF membership. I’m proud to represent the many hard-working and dedicated caregivers within the water sector. Zach is a new delegate at large representing young professionals working at utilities! I can’t tell you how excited I am to work as a delegate with Damaris, Jamey, and Zach this year. Saturday night was quite an experience.
Though I have been to WEFTEC many times before, I had never attended a “Jammin’ 4 Water” event until this year. There were multiple stages and over 60 jams of some of my favorite tunes. You would mistake some of the attendees for professional musicians and vocalists!
All weekend, there were workshops on various topics and innovative technologies.
An FWEA director at large, Nicole Cohen, moderated a fantastic workshop, “Learning to Communicate: Connecting with Audiences
The Student Design Competition was also held on Sunday. Congratulations to the University of South Florida team, which placed second in the wastewater division, and to the University of Florida team for placing first in the environmental division! The future of the water sector is very bright.
Our delegates also engaged with the WEF Community Leadership Council (CLC) on Sunday. We brainstormed hot topics that would be good candidates for future technical content at specialty conferences, and the CLC will try to make the top three a reality! Sunday evening, our delegates met for dinner and enjoyed some of New Orleans’s best eats, discussing all things life, WEF, and FWEA. New Orleans was delicious! I did not have one bad meal.
Olga Mikhalchishina, vice-chair of the FWEA Student and Young Professionals Committee, accompanied WEF President Howard Carter around the conference,
Continued on page 40
Delegates from Florida include (left to right) Jamey Wallace, Kristiana Dragash, Damaris Noriega, and Zachary Loeb.
Jammin’ 4 Water event.
Continued from page 38
touring the exhibit hall; the Water Sector Olympics, aka Operations Challenge; and the InFLOW luncheon and closing ceremony. Something tells me you’ll hear more about InFLOW soon!
That’s not all—FWEA’s social media queen, Melody Gonzalez, was another shining Florida star at WEFTEC. From the service project to the Hispanics in Water luncheon to a session, “Infrastructure for an Inclusive Water Industry,” Melody is walking the diversity, equity, and
inclusion walk and leading our state (and Federation) toward a more inclusive workforce.
Damaris Noriega, WEF Delegate
From FWEA
As a new WEF delegate, I initially felt uncertain about my role, but attending Saturday’s HOD meeting has clarified things for me, and I understand the importance of participating. As a first-time attendee, navigating the expansive exhibit hall (that kept going and going) featuring over 1,000 exhibits
can feel overwhelming. The hall buzzed with presentations on the latest technologies and critical topics like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and “circular water.” Engaging with peers and experts fosters collaboration and sharing of best practices, ultimately contributing to more effective water management and sustainability solutions. At Saturday’s HOD meeting, delegates discussed the upcoming year, reflected on the past year, and heard from each committee. Every delegate is encouraged to join a HOD committee or workgroup. Connecting with my fellow Florida delegates and strategically planning our involvement in WEF was fantastic, balancing broader initiatives with our individual passions. It’s also great to put faces to the names of those I’ll be collaborating with virtually throughout the year. I’m eager to learn more about WEF initiatives, primarily through my roles in the Water Advocacy Committee and Circular Water Workgroup. I’m excited and grateful for the board’s trust in me, and I look forward to a successful year ahead!
Brad Hayes, FWEA Operations Council Representative
I had the opportunity to again participate in the process control event judging for the
Olga Mikhalchishina (right) with WEF President Howard Carter.
Melody Gonzalez (left) with the WEFTEC Advisory Committee.
Latest technology presentation.
Operations Challenge process control event.
The WEFTEC exhibit floor.
Operations Challenge. Florida had numerous judges there for the laboratory, maintenance, and safety events. This was the largest of all the years I’ve been involved, with teams from Canada, South America, and Europe. The exhibition hall was its usual one mile long and had exhibitors from all over the world. It was fantastic to walk along and have someone you haven’t seen in years stop you and want to catch up. Networking has always been a big factor for me since my work role is in business development, and gathering more information on a system or equipment to set up a pilot study makes WEFTEC the ultimate place for getting a business started.
Cody Jordan Diehl, Polk County Utilities
The Biowizards team competed in its fourth straight WEFTEC appearance. Approaching veteran competitor status, the results are evident as the Biowizards set team bests in multiple events. The team finished fourth overall in its division (up from 10th place in 2023), only missing third place by 1.75 points. The team placed second in the Vaughan Pump maintenance event for the second year in a row, showcasing its dedication to excellence in their craft. Among the achievements was a team-best fourth-place process control score. Scoring high on this event indicates the team’s level of wastewater operational knowledge.
What an incredible event WEFTEC is! Attendance can be a career-altering experience, with hundreds of international vendors and attendees from around the globe. The educational and development opportunities provided at WEFTEC make it a must-attend event on a water professional’s schedule.
Shea Dunifon, Past Chair, WEF Public Communications and
Outreach Committee
Over the past few years, WEFTEC has made great strides to become a more inclusive conference for the various professions within
the water sector, including communications, which I will highlight here.
Since 2022, WEF has offered scholarships to 10 individuals working in communications each year. This year, we welcomed recipients from the continental Unites States, Hawaii, Canada, and Sierra Leone. Navigating the New Orleans Convention Center can be a bit overwhelming for these first-timers at WEFTEC, so the Public Communications
and Outreach Committee (PCOC) created an agenda that began on Sunday, starting with some networking, a PCOC meeting, and a formal dinner.
The FWEA graciously helped sponsor our Sunday dinner at Plates, a restaurant specializing in what felt like an endless buffet of “small plates” of food. Joined by opening general session speaker, Mayor Errick D.
Polk County’s Biowizards competing in the pump maintenance and laboratory competitions.
JEA’s Fecal Matters team competing in the collection system event.
The WEF 2024 Public Communications and Outreach Committee communication scholarship winners. Continued on page 42
Simmons Esq., from Greenville, Miss., and longtime PCOC members as mentors, the excitement was palpable.
Monday was also the start of the Operations Challenge, beginning with the process control event for all teams at once and then a staggered schedule for the laboratory event. Unlike at the Florida Water Resources Conference (FWRC), there are divisions at WEFTEC, with Division 1, including the reigning champions and longest-competing teams. Judging the Division 1 laboratory event was next-level; the ingenuity the teams devised to cut time and process samples more efficiently was impressive. Judging the contest all day also meant I missed sessions, including JEA’s presentation on its award-winning “Invasion of the Fatbergs” campaign. I’d highly recommend you view it on YouTube (https://youtu.be/ VDmBma_lTKI?si=L3mt3TZAIYxJ-gHP) if you haven’t already seen it.
Even with an agenda, Tuesday was a busy day for communicators, beginning with a learning exchange, which is not a session, but rather an informal event where participants can meet, network, and exchange information with experts. Topics ranging from PFAS, social media, construction/project outreach, and crisis communications were discussed in small groups.
I also made sure not to miss the Water Research Foundation’s Paul L. Busch Award luncheon, recognizing this year’s recipient, Dr. Jeffrey McCutcheon, for his innovative research in the field of osmosis technology. His presentation during lunch highlighted his group’s research on never-before-used materials for manufacturing membranes. Unfortunately, I, like many other Florida attendees, had to
Hurricane Milton, a humble reminder that our duty to serve our communities comes first. The good news is that WEFTEC 2025 will occur in Chicago, September 27 to October 1, so there’s always next year.
The
Olga Mikhalchishina, Vice-Chair, FWEA Public Communications and Outreach Committee
This year, I had the honor of chairing the WEFTEC service project, an unforgettable experience marked by both challenges and rewarding successes. Together with a dedicated team and supportive local partners, we delivered a project that left a meaningful impact on the community. Hosted at St. Mary’s Academy in New Orleans, this year’s project addressed critical drainage issues around the school’s cafeteria entrance, enhancing safety for students and staff. Our community partners offered invaluable expertise, making this project a genuine collaboration with lasting
Beyond the service project, WEFTEC, held in New Orleans, was filled with memorable highlights—from the inspiring opening ceremony to engaging discussions with industry leaders. The opening ceremony set a powerful tone, featuring impactful water stories from Indigenous representatives and industry professionals that underscored the cultural and environmental significance of water.
The third day of the conference offered another engaging experience at a learning exchange session on workforce issues for the next generation of operators, where we discussed challenges like the lack of national certification reciprocity and the need for operators to be recognized as essential workers with fair compensation. These discussions, along with presenting the “Rocky of the Year” award to our Florida young professional, Zachary Loeb, connecting with WEF President Howard Carter, and celebrating at the InFLOW luncheon, highlighted the deep passion and dedication within our community.
Far more than presentations and technical demonstrations on the exhibition floor, WEFTEC is a holistic experience that renews our commitment to a vibrant, inclusive future for the water industry.
A lot happens at WEFTEC, which I characterize as FWRC on steroids. I encourage you to present a technical paper or compete in a Student Design Competition or Operations Challenge at Florida’s FWRC. It’s a great place to start and refine your skills. I plan on attending FWRC and WEFTEC in 2025 and hope to see you all at both events. I promise you will come away energized and inspired. S
Chicago River.
The WEF Operation Challenge laboratory event judges. Volunteers at the WEFTEC service project.
Water Transmission Main Replacement Threads the Needle of Materials, Design, and Constructability Constraints
David Hackworth and David Mullen
The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) is undertaking a long-term program to replace its water transmission main for the entire 130mile chain of islands to strengthen the system’s resilience and reliability. Existing ductile iron pipe is being replaced with cathodically protected steel pipe to resist early corrosion from aggressive soils and subterranean tidal flows. Efforts began in Islamorada, a village in Monroe County, with a five-mile transmission main replacement project on Upper Matecumbe Key.
The project faced numerous unique challenges:
S Procuring materials in a COVID-19 economy
S Designing the pipeline alignment in limited space
S Minimizing construction impacts
The lessons learned during this project are helping FKAA optimize its approach for future water transmission main replacement projects.
Early Procurement Strategy
Minimizes Material Cost and Availability Risks
The project began in 2021 under COVID-19 pandemic conditions that were significantly impacting supply chains. Shortages in raw materials and parts made it difficult to obtain them, lock in prices during bidding, and develop accurate cost estimates. Valves, which normally take longer to obtain than other items, were particularly difficult to procure using the contractor’s normal process of submitting and purchasing. Lead times were extending from a couple of months to over a year and material prices were escalating rapidly.
In addition, vendors could not provide locked-in prices during bidding and quotes were sometimes only good for a few days. For example, the cost of hot-rolled steel coil, the raw material for
steel pipe, tripled during the project’s preliminary design phase. Since cost estimates were difficult to complete with any accuracy, it was nearly impossible for FKAA to budget for projects.
To expedite the project and avoid material delays, the FKAA team implemented an early owner-direct purchase program for the straight steel pipe sections and butterfly valves. During this process, the required pipe size and wall thickness were confirmed so steel coil could be procured early to lock in the material cost. The steel pipe manufacturer was able to plan in the manufacturing of the pipe ahead of the scheduled construction and store the pipe onsite until it was needed for installation. Early coordination with FKAA on the connections allowed the project team to quantify the valves required so valve procurement could begin prior to final design and selection of a contractor. A supplier was chosen in September 2022, with estimated delivery of the first crucial 36-inch valve in July 2023 and the remainder of the valves in November 2023.
Unforeseen supplier challenges threatened additional delays to the construction schedule: one of the supplier’s foundries closed during the bidding process and another suffered a major fire. To enable the contractor to continue with construction, a spacer piece was temporarily installed between pipe segments until the valves arrived and could be installed. Since steel pipe is welded, there was no material flexibility to fill the required gap to slide the valve in later. The solution was to cut the steel pipe, tighten the valve into place, and fill the small gap using an exterior butt strap. This was possible because an access manway was added once the possible delay was identified.
Frequent communication and coordination with the valve supplier proved critical to keeping the construction schedule on track. As the project progressed, the project team requested cost and schedule updates on a regular basis. Obtaining up-to-date information about valve delivery times and potential delays enabled the project team to proactively work with the supplier and build a
team-like relationship. This enabled the supplier to better track the production performance and the project team could inform the supplier about specific valve sizes needed to help prioritize production.
“The valve manufacturer possessed unique project management capabilities. Direct communication from the factory to FKAA and the project management team enabled prioritization of valve deliveries in the order they were needed for installation, which allowed the project to continue moving forward,” said Robert Whritenour, owner of Fluid Control Specialties Inc.
Pipeline Alignment Designed to Optimize Constructability
Determining the transmission main’s optimal route through Islamorada was critical to navigating the unique challenges of the Keys for underground utility installation. Groundwater tables fluctuate, even surpassing road elevations during high tide events; the coral rock geology is hard and highly porous. Linear in nature, the Keys are served by U.S. Highway 1 (U.S. 1), the main north-south roadway and only evacuation route. The pipe alignment had to be constructable, with minimal impacts on traffic flow.
Three alternative alignments were evaluated: Old Highway; U.S. 1, northbound shoulder; and U.S. 1, southbound shoulder. Old Highway was ranked least desirable due to congestion of an existing sanitary sewer, its more-residential setting, distance from the existing transmission main, and lower elevations. The northbound shoulder was ranked second, mainly due to an existing electrical duct bank that meandered along the shoulder and existing stormwater structures that would have caused numerous vertical or horizontal deflections. Ultimately, the transmission main was routed under the southbound lanes of U.S.1 to avoid areas congested with existing utilities and allow for shorter connections to existing distribution systems.
Continued on page 44
Test Yourself Answer Key
Continued from page 37
1. A) microfiltration (MF)
The membrane used in water treatment with the largest pore diameter is microfiltration.
2. D) all of the above.
Ultrafiltration and microfiltration can be used for the removal of sediment, Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and bacteria.
3. D) all of the above.
Nanofiltration and reverse osmosis can be used for the removal of pesticides, arsenic, and nitrate.
4. B) 1000 mg/l TDS.
Freshwater typically contains less than 1,000 mg/l TDS.
5. B) 1,000 to 10,000 mg/l TDS. Brackish water typically contains 1,000 to 10,000 mg/l TDS.
6. C) algae.
Contaminants that size within the micro particle range are algae.
7. D) aqueous salts.
Contaminants that size within the ionic range are aqueous salts.
8. D) all of the above.
Electrodialysis is effective in removing contaminants with size ranges of ionic range, molecular range, and macro range.
9. B) calcium ions.
Microfiltration is not effective in removing calcium ions.
10. C) aqueous salts.
Ultrafiltration is not effective in removing aqueous salts.
Continued from page 43
Selecting U.S. 1 as the pipeline corridor enabled the project team to take advantage of higher road elevations, with a U.S. 1 right of way (ROW) resembling an elevated berm through the middle of Islamorada. The U.S. 1 roadway in the project area is commonly one to two feet higher than the rest of the ROW, allowing the pipe trench to remain dry with very little, if any, dewatering for a majority of the project length. Typically, a top-of-pipe elevation above four feet during usual tides provided a bottom trench 0.5 to 1 foot above groundwater levels. The dry pipe trench allowed the contractor to perform exterior welding, enabling production rates (up to 250 feet per day) two times the original project estimate compared to installation with interior welding. The exterior welding and dry trench also increased overall project safety.
The route also included horizontal directional drilled (HDD) subaqueous crossings of the Tea Table Key Relief Channel and the Whale Harbor Channel to tie together the new steel pipe segments. Installing the pipeline beneath the channels will help increase resiliency of the system and reduce risk from high winds and storm surge associated with bridge crossings. The FKAA is looking to provide redundancy at bridge crossings by installing all new transmission main channel crossings via HDD and then rehabbing the existing bridge crossings.
Construction Approach Minimizes Impact and Maximizes Efficiency
Since U.S. 1 is the only roadway and evacuation route for the Keys, maintenance of traffic during construction was critical. A lane shift, diverting the northbound traffic onto the shoulder and the southbound traffic into the northbound lane, provided approximately 30 feet of roadway for contractor workspace and the required separation between the open trench activities and vehicular traffic. Avoiding an alternating traffic pattern, the contractor utilized a 24-hour workday during the week to maximize installation efficiency and maintain a continuously moving zone of construction.
While the 24-hour work schedule might sound like a major impact on the surrounding businesses and residents, the drastic reduction of overall workdays in front of a property outweighed the nighttime work effects. Using a train process for pipe installation, construction activities were continuously moving and methodically sequenced at both the front and back of the work zone as installation progressed. Installation and backfill operations occurred during the day and milling and pretrenching activities occurred overnight to prepare for the next day’s installation.
“When I drove through the project site, the construction resembled a perfect example of train-type construction for linear utility installation,” said Saud Kahn, specialist for the Florida Department of Transportation District Six Maintenance of Traffic (MOT).
The MOT was set up as a rolling lane closure that allowed for a 1,000- to 2,000-linear-foot (LF) work zone on average and would be moved concurrently with the project team. Paving typically occurred on a weekly basis to allow the approximately 1,000 LF per week to have regular traffic flow each weekend. Sunday night the MOT was reset, and the milling and pretrenching began again to prepare for the pipe laying operations on Monday.
Construction began in April 2023 and the new transmission main was put into service in July 2024, cutting the anticipated construction schedule in half and significantly reducing impacts on businesses and residents. Additional efforts to minimize traffic impacts through the U.S. 1 corridor included the steel pipe supplier’s willingness to store materials until they were needed for installation. This eliminated unnecessary trucking of pipe from a staging area through the U.S. 1 ROW. The supplier would ship pipe based on the availability of ROW in the specific construction area, with some areas having plenty of green space for 1,000 feet or more of pipe and other areas limited to a single truck load each day. In addition, these coordinated deliveries helped the contractor keep the multiuse Overseas Heritage Trail open on the impacted side of U.S. 1 for more of the project duration than expected.
The FKAA has leveraged the lessons learned and strong partnerships built on this project by continuing north into Windley Key with the same project team, including the material suppliers, engineering team, construction administration firm, and contractor. The Windley Key project has had its own specific obstacles, but FKAA has been able to mitigate material delay concerns, fast-track the design to construction, and achieve fast and safe installation of another 1.5 miles of transmission main.
The FKAA understands the importance of a project team that is focused on mitigating material risks, familiar with the project area, and committed to providing innovative solutions. As FKAA continues replacing its aging infrastructure, the lessons learned will help guide project teams in keeping these critical projects on schedule while minimizing impacts to residents and businesses.
David Hackworth, P.E., is director of engineering at Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority. David Mullen, P.E., is a professional water engineer in the Miami office of Wade Trim. S
Operators: Take the CEU Challenge!
Members of the Florida Water and Pollution Control Operators Association (FWPCOA) may earn continuing education units through the CEU Challenge! Answer the questions published on this page, based on articles in this month’s issue. Circle the letter of each correct answer. There is only one correct answer to each question! Answer 80 percent of the questions on any article correctly to earn 0.1 CEU for your license. Retests are available.
This month’s editorial theme is Distribution and Collection. Look above each set of questions to see if it is for water operators (DW), distribution system operators (DS), or wastewater operators (WW). Mail the completed page (or a photocopy) to: Florida Environmental Professionals Training, P.O. Box 33119, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. 33420-3119, or scan and email a copy to memfwpcoa@ gmail.com. Enclose $15 for each set of questions you choose to answer (make checks payable to FWPCOA). You MUST be an FWPCOA member before you can submit your answers!
EARN CEUS BY ANSWERING
QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS
JOURNAL ISSUES!
Contact FWPCOA at membership@fwpcoa.org or at 561-840-0340. Articles from past issues can be viewed on the Journal website, www.fwrj.com.
Understanding the Benefits of Proactive Maintenance for Air Release Valves
John P. Schroeder, Julie L. Karleskint, and Gregory Rouse (Article 1: CEU = 0.1 1 DW/DS/WW02015443)
1. What is the primary function of air release valves (ARVs) in wastewater and water utilities?
a. To increase water pressure
b. To release and/or intake air necessary to maintain efficient flow
c. To filter water
d. To measure water quality
2. What is the consequence of not properly maintaining ARVs?
a. Improved water quality
b. Increased water pressure
c. Raw sewage spills and other issues
d. Reduced water flow
3. What percentage of raw wastewater spills in Sarasota County from 2017 to 2022 was contributed by failing ARVs?
a. 10 percemt
b. 16 percent
c. 20 percent
d. 25 percent
4. What is the recommended frequency for initial ARV inspections?
a. Three months
b. Six months or one year
c. Two years
d. Five years
5. What is the purpose of manhole venting in the ARV program?
a. To increase water pressure
b. To filter water
c. To measure water quality
d. To prevent gases from accumulating
Water Transmission Main Replacement Threads the Needle of Materials, Design, and Constructability Constraints
David Hackworth and David Mullen (Article 2: CEU = 0.1 DW/DS02015444)
1. What is the main purpose of the long-term program at the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA)?
a. To replace the water transmission main for the entire 130-mile chain of islands
b. To build new water treatment plants
c. To install new electrical lines
d. To create new residential areas
2. What material is being used to replace the existing ductile iron pipe?
a. Plastic pipe
b. Copper pipe
c. Steel pipe
d. Aluminum pipe
3. What strategy did FKAA implement to minimize material cost and availability risks?
a. Early owner-direct purchase program
b. Delaying the project
c. Using cheaper materials
d. Hiring more contractors
4. What was added to the steel pipe to enable the installation of the valve later?
a. Access manway
b. Pressure gauge
c. Temperature sensor
d. Flow meter
5. What advantage did selecting U.S. Highway 1 as the pipeline corridor provide?
a. Higher road elevations
b. Lower construction costs
c. Easier access to materials
d. Less traffic
The Importance of Risk-Based Prioritization of Gravity and Manhole Lining to Reduce Inflow and Infiltration
John “Jack” Walsh, Donnie Howard, and Kunal Nayee (Article 3: CEU = 0.1 WW02015445)
1. What does PACP stand for?
a. Pipeline assessment and certification program
b. Pipeline assessment and categorization program
c. Pipeline analysis and certification program
d. Pipeline analysis and categorization program
2. What scoring methodology was used for the assessment?
a. LoS and CoS
b. LoF and CoS
c. LoF and CoF
d. LoS and CoF
3. From 2017 to 2023, what was the average percentage decrease in maximum daily flows?
a. 10 percent
b. 18 percent
c. 20 percent
d. 22 percent
4. What is the main purpose of the sewer lining program?
a. Reduce energy costs
b. Alleviate emergency rehabilitation work
c. Increase water flow
d. Improve water quality
5. What equipment did the city staff utilize to assess the operation and maintenance status of the mains?
a. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras
b. Sewer line rapid assessment tool equipment
c. Pipeline assessment and certification (PACP) equipment
d. Manhole assessment and certification program (MACP) equipment
JEA is hiring dedicated professionals to operate a state-of-the art membrane purification facility as part of JEA’s H2.O Purification Program.
Be a part of Florida’s operational history by joining our team today.
Please visit www.jea.com/careers and look for Advanced Treatment Water Facility (ATWF) positions for more details.
WHY Choose US
• Top-tier Operator Pay Scale
• Excellent Benefits
• Advancement Opportunities
• Award-winning Facilities and Operations Team
THE Center
JEA is constructing a 1.0 MGD membrane-based Advanced Treatment Water facility as part of the H2.O Purification Program. “The Center” is designed to exceed water quality goals needed for aquifer replenishment. Operational processes include membrane filtration, reverse osmosis and UV advanced oxidation.
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C L A S S I F I E D S
- Classified ads are $22 per line for a 60 character line (including spaces and punctuation), $60 minimum. The price includes publication in both the magazine and our Web site. Short positions wanted ads are run one time for no charge and are subject to editing. ads@fwrj.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Utilities Plans Examiner Coordinator
$68,199 - $105,558/yr.
Utilities Treatment Plant Operator I or Trainee
$55,542 - $78,152/yr. or $50,378 - $70,885/yr.
Utilities System Operator Foreman
$55,542 - $78,152/yr.
Utilities Lift Station Operator I or II
$47,979 - $67,511 or $55,542 - $78,152
Utilities System Trainee or Operators I
$41,446 - $58,319 or $43,517 - $61,234
Apply Online At: http://pompanobeachfl.gov Open until filled.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
$80,767.00 - $125,188.00 Annually
The City of Naples is seeking an experienced and dedicated Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent to oversee daily operations at our state-of-the-art facility. This role ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, manages plant personnel, and upholds high standards of safety and environmental stewardship. Responsibilities include directing plant maintenance, monitoring process controls, and implementing efficiency improvements.
Apply now! www.naplesgov.com
Director of Public Works - City of Naples
The City of Naples seeks a visionary Director of Public Works to lead infrastructure management, environmental sustainability, and capital improvement initiatives. This role oversees critical services, including stormwater management, facilities, and roadways, ensuring the highest standards of service for our residents. Ideal candidates bring proven leadership experience, expertise in municipal infrastructure, and a commitment to community engagement. Join us in enhancing Naples’ quality of life and supporting our vibrant city.
Apply online today at www.naplesgov.com
Meter Reader Supervisor
Work involves scheduling, overseeing, and coordinating the installation, relocation, repair, and reading of utility meters, revising work methods and procedures, and maintaining records to ensure accurate and timely service delivery.
To view more details about the position and apply online visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/tamaracfl/
Apply today!
$64,961-$76,000
Water Plant Director
The City of West Melbourne is proud to announce that we are currently seeking a Water Plant Director for our new Water Plant Facility. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for an outstanding individual to be part of the historic construction and first-drop production of the City’s first 4.4 mgd R.O. potable water plant. Come be an integral part of our brand-new facility, with the unique opportunity of being able to build your team, and help West Melbourne provide the highest quality potable water in Florida to our beautiful community.
Our ideal candidate should have:
• Associate›s degree in business, environmental sciences, or a related field required; bachelor›s degree preferred.
• Seven (7) years of senior management experience in roles such as Chief Operator, Superintendent, or Maintenance Chief in an advanced water treatment plant.
• Extensive knowledge water quality regulations, leadership, and personnel management required.
• An active State of Florida Class «A» Water Treatment Operator›s license. Applicants who do not currently possess a valid license must acquire the State of Florida Class «A» Water Treatment Operator›s within one (1) year as a condition of continued employment.
To learn more about this position, to see our position brochure, and/ or to apply for this position, please click on this link: https://fl-westmelbourne.civicplushrms.com/careers/Jobs.aspx.
Join the City of Plantation Utilities Team! Now hiring an Environmental Analyst I Make a difference in your community Apply today! WWW.Plantation.org
Orange County Government is an employer of choice, embracing innovation, collaboration and inclusion. Orange County shines as a place to both live and work, with an abundance of world class golf courses, lakes, miles of trails and year-round sunshine - all with the sparkling backdrop of nightly fireworks from world-famous tourist attractions. Orange County continues to build a thriving economy and a welcoming community that works for everyone.
Orange County Utilities is one of the largest utility service providers in Florida and has been recognized nationally and locally for outstanding operations, efficiencies, innovations, education programs and customer focus. We provide water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services to a population of over 800,000 citizens; operate the largest publicly owned landfill in the state; and manage in excess of a billion dollars of infrastructure assets. Our focus is on excellent quality, customer service, innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to employee development. Join us to find more than a job – find a career.
The Water Reclamation Division is seeking qualified individuals to fill multiple positions of “Wastewater Treatment Operator” (Plant Specialist Trainee, I, II and III.) These positions are responsible for:
• the analysis and troubleshooting of operational problems using available data
• following the proper course of action to meet plant operating objectives
• performing operation and maintenance of treatment facilities
Work requires independent judgement and is performed under the general supervision of a designated supervisor. Work is reviewed through observations, conferences, reports, and results achieved. Work is physically demanding, in hazardous conditions, and requires close contact with different chemicals while wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Plants operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and may require Operators to work overtime and rotational shifts.
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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.
Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation
7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4®): 1402 Emerald Lakes Street, Lake County, Clermont, Fl. 34711
Contact Person: Mike Delaney
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Full Name: Florida Water Resources Journal, Inc.
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13. Publication Title: Florida Water Resources Journal
14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: December 2024
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a. Paid Electronic Copies
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d. Percent Paid (Both Print & Electronic Copies) (16b divided by 16c Í 100)
T I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are paid above a nominal price.
17. Publication of Statement of Ownership
T If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed in the December 2024 issue of this publication.
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18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Mike Delaney
Date: 10/17/24
I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who
or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).
