Operator Issue
1 s t Q u a r t e r 2 0 12 V o l . 2 6 , N o . 1
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E T E N N E S S E E A S S O C I AT I O N O F U T I L I T Y D I S T R I C T S
6 13 21 2 8 3 4
TA U D 2 n d A n n u a l B a s s To u r n a m e n t 2 0 11 O p e r a t o r C e r t i f i c a t i o n B o a r d E d u c a t i o n A c c r u a l C h a n g e s State Proposes New Fluoride Rule U p c o m i n g C l a s s e s - TA U D Tr a i n i n g O p p o r t u n i t i e s 2 0 1 2 TA U D A w a r d s I n f o
Visit taud.org now! Scan this tag with your smartphone!
Tennessee Association of Utility Districts 2011 - 2012 Officers & Board of Directors Tom Atchley, President Hendersonville Utility District Patsy Johnson , Vice-President Old Gainesboro Road Utility District John Brown, Treasurer Harpeth Valley Utilities District Larry McElroy, Secretary Consolidated Utility District Nick Newman Memphis Light, Gas & Water Charlie Anderson Bloomingdale Utility District Drexel Heidel West Knox Utility District Freddie Weston West Wilson Utility District David Callahan Soddy Daisy Utility District Phillip Combs Alpha-Talbott Utility District Pat Riley Gibson County Utility District Les Enoch Middle TN Natural Gas Utility District
TAUD STAFF Bob Freudenthal, Executive Director BobFreudenthal@taud.org Penny Funk, Office Manager PennyFunk@taud.org Brent Ogles, Education Manager BrentOgles@taud.org (615) 556-6002 John Hall, Advocacy/Finance JohnHall@taud.org (931) 607-1014 Tonia Pass, Education Administrative Assistant ToniaPass@taud.org Carol Mims, Accountant CarolMims@taud.org Beth Hardiman, Meeting Planner/Member Services BethHardiman@taud.org Colleen SauvĂŠ, Publications & Social Media, Receptionist Colleen@taud.org John Shadwick, Training Specialist JohnShadwick@taud.org (615) 804-4069
Tony Wyatt, West, TN Field Supervisor TonyWyatt@taud.org (731) 415-9101 Steve Roberts, East TN, Water Circuit Rider SteveRoberts@taud.org (865) 256-5383 Bruce Trotter, Middle TN, Water Circuit Rider BruceTrotter@taud.org (615) 788-9756 Larry Lewis, Source Water Protection Technician LarryLewis@taud.org (731) 234-0360 Greg Baker, Groundwater Specialist/IT Specialist GregBaker@taud.org (731) 225-5240 Dewayne Culpepper, West TN, Wastewater Technician DewayneCulpepper@taud.org (931) 607-6981 Dan Martin, East TN, Wastewater Technician DanMartin@taud.org (931) 312-9405
Upcoming Events
Mike Green Warren County Utility District
Utility Technology Conference March 14 - 16 Park Vista Hotel, Gatlinburg
David Norton, UMRB Chairman
Spring Basic Leadership Conference April 16 - 17 Chattanoogan Hotel, Chattanooga
Larry McElroy, NRWA Director Mike Wetherington, Associate Advisor American Development Corp.
2012 Spring CRAMS April 30 - 32
Knoxville/Murfreesboro
2012 Operator Expo May 24 Lebanon Fair Grounds, Lebanon Conference information is subject to change. For the most current information and online registration, please visit www.taud.org.
2
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Welcome New Members:
!
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Financial Imaging On Duty Depot Paytek Solutions RapidView LLC Saville Public Entity Stites & Harbison Valve Boss
Vital for :Tennessee’s Future
Your Support IS NEEDED! Tell EPA...
As you are aware, recent funding reductions have significantly impacted TAUD’s operations. Services
previously offered via our technical assistance, training and source protection planning programs must now be on a fee-basis. We recognize this creates a challenging financial situation for systems that have relied on our no-direct-cost services for years. There is an opportunity to reestablish these federally supported services and therefore go back to a no-direct-cost services approach. We need your involvement to achieve this initiative. A few minutes of your time could directly benefit your system in the future. We ask that you complete a letter of support to be delivered to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson. TAUD will receive and compile all these letters and then deliver them to the administrator in the near future. Because of urgency, please email letters as attachments to taud@taud.org.
Letters must be receieved by February 2nd! 1st Quarter, volume 26
See sample letter below: On System letter head:
To: EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson
Date (insert)
Our water system, (insert company name), with a service population of (insert service population) supports the technical assistance, training and source water protection assistance provided by the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts through EPA funding to the National Rural Water Association.
(You can add any other commentary that you feel shows the value of TAUD programs and services) Sincerely,
Your signature and title 3
Operator Issue
Table of Contents Can you find the frog hidden somewhere in the graphics or photos of this issue? same size & color as shown here. Answer on page 38. Happy Hunting.
6 Second Annual Operator Expo Bass Tournament 7 2012 Scholarship Information 9 Operator in Direct Charge 13 2011 Operator Certification Board Education Accrual Changes 14 Annual 503 Wastewater Treatment Plant Biosolids Report Due: February 19th 2012 16 General Permit for the Land Application of Biosolids 17 Proposed Draft Rules & General Permit for Biosolids Management in Tennessee 20 Young Professionals: Town of Gates Danny George, Certified Operator 22 Stage 2 Disinfection/Disinfectant By-Product Rule Update 26 Region News 28 2011 Region Recap 30 TAUD Training Opportunities 32 Registration Forms for Utility Technology Conference & Operator Expo 34 2012 TAUD Awards Info 37 TUA Offers CCCP Mgmt. to Water Systems 38 Operator Word Search
The cover images/photos for this issue were provided by © SVLuma and © Orlando Florin Rosu - Fotolia.com
Tennessee Utility News is published four times a year by the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts (TAUD). Article submissions & accompanying artwork are welcomed. Please contact the publisher, Colleen Sauvé, (615) 896-9022 or colleen@taud.org. The right to edit or deny publishing and material submitted for publication is reserved by TAUD.
4
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
TAUD Associate Superboosters Diamond American Development Corp. HDSupply Waterworks Kidwell & Company McGill Associates, P.A. Next Generation Underwriters Southeastern Tank, Inc. Wascon, Inc. Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital LLC Platinum Alliance Water Resources Brenntag Mid-South C.I. Thornburg Co., Inc. Crom Corp. ECO-TECH, Inc. Garver Gresham Smith & Partners GRW Engineers, Inc. Jackson Thornton & Co., P.C. Master Meter, Inc. McWane Cast Iron Pipe Co. Regions Bank Corporate Trust Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. Southern Pipe & Supply Tennessee 811 United Utilities, Inc. W & W Engineering, LLC
1st Quarter, volume 26
Gold ISCO Industries John Bouchard & Sons Company M&H Kennedy Valve S & S Utility Sales, LLC Southern Sales Co. United Systems & Software, Inc. Silver Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon Bass, Berry, and Sims Branstetter, Stranch & Jennings Insituform Technologies, Inc. Jacobs Engineering Kazmier & Associates, Inc. Kentucky Glass Lined Tank Systems, Inc. Stringfellow Inc. USDA Rural Development Veteran Management Services Water Systems Optimization
k n a Th Yo u
5
Don’t Miss it! 2nd Annual
TAUD presents the “2nd Annual Operator Expo Bass Fishing Tournament” on May 23,2012. This year’s tournament will take place at Bull Creek Recreation Area on Old Hickory Lake in Gallatin. The launch site is also the home of “Flipper’s Bait & Tackle” the host of numerous National Bass Fishing Tournaments such as B.A.S.S. and the FLW Tournament Trail.
Tournament cash payout and number of places is dependent on participation and tournament sponsorship. The TAUD Fishing Committee is seeking sponsors from our Associate Members as the tournament continues its rise to become a signature event for the Association. TAUD Associate Members play a vital role in assisting utilities and supporting TAUD.
Last year, a fleet of 43 boats and 86 Anglers from across the state participated in the first Annual Operator Expo Bass Fishing Tournament. Jeremy Walker and Derek Dwyer of Harpeth Valley Utilities District took first place winning a nice cash purse. Several prizes were paid out. A total of 38 boats out of the 43 had entered their catch at the weigh in with several impressive catches.
A cookout for all participating Anglers and Associate Member sponsors will follow the weigh-in adjacent to Flipper’s Bait & Tackle. Participants must be present to claim all awards and door prizes.
For the 2012 tournament, each two person team must consist of a TAUD Member or Associate Member along with an invited guest of choice to qualify and compete for all tournament prizes and awards. The registration fee for each boat or team will be $50.00. Optional Big Bass Bucket of Cash per team will be $10.00. Proceeds from the “2nd Annual Operator Expo Bass Fishing Tournament” benefit the Tennessee Utility Education Corporation (TUEC). To learn more about the TUEC Scholarship Program, visit www.taud.org or e-mail TAUD Education Manager Brent Ogles at brentogles@ taud.org for complete details.
6
Registration, entry forms and tournament rules went live on the TAUD website (www.taud.org) on January 18th 2012 at 11:00 CST. Order of blastoff will be based on entry fees received on the website by credit card or by check or cash in the TAUD office. Mass emails will be sent out to with additional information closer to the tournament. To learn more about participating or sponsoring the tournament contact Dewayne Culpepper at (931) 6076981 or by e-mail at dewayneculpepper@taud.org or Kirk Smith at (615) 509-9338 or by e-mail at kirk.smith@ cithornburg.com.
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
2012 Scholarship Information Deadline: March 1 The TN Utility Education Corporation (TUEC) Scholarship Program in conjunction with TN Association of Utility Districts is offering a one year, $2,000 dollar scholarship in each of the three grand divisions of TN. They are the: Harold Clark Scholarship for West TN Henry Elrod Scholarship for Middle TN Sam Bruce Scholarship for East TN The Scholarships will be awarded to students intending to major in a field related to operations of a public utility at an accredited college or university. • The recipient must be a dependent child of a full-time employee (part-time may be considered under certain circumstances) of a TAUD member or a TAUD governing board member or the recipient must be an employee of a TAUD member. • Each applicant’s ranking will be based on leadership responsibilities, awards, honors, academic record, career goals and financial need. • The recipient must intend to study a major which is related to or can be used by the student in the operations of a public utility. •
Deadline for submission is March 1, 2012.
If interested, please visit www.taud.org and complete the available application. If you have questions, contact Brent Ogles at 615-896-9022 or by e-mail at brentogles@taud.org.
1st Quarter, volume 26
7
Trade your Server
for SomeThinG
beTTer: a cLoud. Transform utility billing operations with QS/1®’s cloud computing: an IT innovation that virtually eliminates the need for servers and in-office software and network management. QS/1’s secure off-site “cloud” is far more than utility billing software. It takes security to a new level with state of the art data centers including dual site redundancy so you never have to worry about losing any data. The cloud also eliminates the need for expensive on-site servers and the on-going maintenance and backup requirements that come with them. It’s next-generation utility billing infrastructure with a refreshing affordability that’s budget and board approved. Learn more about QS/1 Governmental Solutions at qs1gov.com or call 800.231.7776.
1.800.231.7776 qs1gov.com
8
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS © 2012, J M SMITH CORPORATION. QS/1 is a registered trademark of the J M Smith Corporation.
Operator in Direct Charge Tony Wyatt, Circuit Rider Each water or wastewater system in Tennessee must have a certified operator in direct charge of its treatment plants, distribution and collection systems. When you consider the number of municipal utilities, utility districts and small water systems in the state, you begin to understand why there is such a demand for certified operators. Frequently, operators are contacted by neighboring utilities or small water systems, such as trailer parks, resorts, campgrounds, etc., to serve as the certified operator in direct charge. This can provide extra income for a certified operator, however the operator should remember the responsibility that comes with the job. Whether the operator is a full-time employee of the system or is contracting on a part-time basis, it is his/her responsibility to see that the system complies with all rules and regulations. Listed below are the Rules Governing Water and Wastewater Operator Certification, 1200-5-3 and responsibilities of the operator in direct charge. 1200—5—3—.04 GENERAL. (2) Each person in direct charge at a water treatment plant, a wastewater treatment plant, a water distribution system, or a wastewater collection system shall hold a certificate in a grade equal to or higher than the grade of the treatment plant, distribution system, or collection system he/she operates. The grade of a facility will be established by the criteria set forth in this chapter of rules. (4) Each water supply system and wastewater system required to have a certified operator shall, no later than the first day of August annually, inform the Board, through its designated agents, the Division of Water Supply for water and distribution operators and the
1st Quarter, volume 26
Division of Water Pollution Control for wastewater and collection operators, in writing of the name of each person who is a certified operator in direct charge of any water treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant, water distribution system or wastewater collection system it operates. A system shall notify the Division of Water Supply for water treatment plant and distribution system operators and the Division of Water Pollution Control for wastewater treatment plant and collection system operators in writing within thirty (30) days of its loss of the services of a certified operator in direct charge. In addition to each water or wastewater system having an operator with the required certification, the system must also annually provide the name of the operator to the proper division of the state. Listed below is the state's definition of person in direct charge: 1200—5—3—.05 DEFINITIONS. (6) "Person in direct charge" as used in these rules means the person or persons expressly designated to be in direct charge and so named in writing to the Board's authorized representative by each water supply system and wastewater system, whose decisions and directions to system personnel control the manipulation of equipment and thereby determine the quality and quantity of the water supplied by a water treatment plant or a water distribution system, or the quality of the effluent from a wastewater treatment plant or the integrity of a wastewater collection system. The operator in direct charge not only must be properly certified but should also be the person who makes the decisions that control the plant or system. This essentially means that, as the person in responsible charge, you will be responsible to the state for not only your actions but also the actions of those working under
9
your direction. Therefore, an operator, who works fulltime at the treatment plant, and has been reported as the operator in direct charge of the distribution system, would be responsible for the people working in the distribution system. Due to this large responsibility it is important that the operator in this example be given the authority and opportunity to ensure that all work in the distribution system is performed in compliance according to the state's rules and regulations. One way to ensure that you are operating in compliance is to have a written Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for each system or plant, for which you are responsible. This SOP should be available at all times to anyone operating the system or plant. You could lose your license due to the actions of those working in the system or plant, for which you are the operator in direct charge. You can be held responsible for the actions of others, including other operators who may also be certified but are working in a system or plant under your authority. 1200-5-3 gives the following reasons for revocation of certificate under these conditions: 1200—5—3—.11 REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATE. (2) An operator shall be deemed to have not used reasonable care, judgment, or the application of his/her knowledge in the performance of his/her duties if he/she does not comply with the laws, rules, permit requirements, or orders of any governmental agency or court which govern the water supply system or the wastewater system he/she operates. Such acts of noncompliance include but are not limited to the following: (a) The intentional or the negligent failure by the operator or persons under his/her supervision to act that results in a water supply system facility or a wastewater system facility not operating in the manner in which it is capable of being operated for the performance of its designed function. (b) The intentional or the negligent failure by the operator or persons under his/her supervision to comply with the monitoring, sampling, analysis, or reporting requirements for a water supply system facility or a wastewater system facility. (c) The intentional or the negligent unlawful discharge of wastes from a water supply system facility or a wastewater system facility. (d) The intentional or the negligent failure by the operator or persons under his/her supervision to notify the Department of conditions: which may affect the quantity or quality of water being supplied to the customers of a water supply system; which cause the pollution of the waters of the State of Tennessee; or, which are violative of a standard of water quality promulgated by any governmental agency.
10
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
(3) An operator shall be deemed to be incompetent to perform his/her duties properly when he/she does not possess the basic skills and knowledge necessary to operate a water supply system facility or a wastewater system facility including laboratory functions or if he/she fails to have a system of verification and oversight of employees under his/ her charge. Incompetency shall be determined by examining the technical skills of the operator in operating the type of facility of which he/she is in direct charge. (6) The Commissioner may issue an order to revoke the certificate of an operator who performs laboratory analytical services for a water supply system or a wastewater system when he/she determines that the operator has prepared and/or signed reports of laboratory analysis results for the system that: (a) contain inaccurate data and are known or should be known by the operator to be false; or, (b) contain inaccurate data because the operator has not used reasonable care, judgment, or the application of his/ her knowledge either in the performance of the laboratory analysis or in the preparation of the laboratory analytical reports. Many small utilities still depend on contract or part-time operators. Some small utilities may need this service temporarily until a full-time certified operator can be hired or until a present employee can become certified. Others, because of the size or simplicity of their system may only need part-time employees. Small systems may not be financially capable of employing full-time operators and must depend on contract or part-time help from operators, who work for larger utilities. An operator in direct charge should make certain that the utility’s decision makers (board members, managers, mayors, etc.) understand the responsibility involved. The decision makers should ensure that the operator in direct charge has the necessary authority and time to see that the system or plant complies with all rules and regulations.
Interim Finance Program
u o y g n i Sav er! silv
“We saved over $30,000 on our last loan. The application is one page & easy to complete. When you request money for your construction projects, it just takes a few days to receive the money. The money is wired directly to your constructions bank account. We are working on our third interim construction loan with TAUD. I highly recommend this program.” -Mickey Barger General Manager, Watts Bar Utility District
1st Quarter, volume 26
current rates between
2.3% - 2.8%
33 $70
Borrowers & counting...
million borrowed
Financing can be provided for any water, wastewater, natural gas or community facility construction project funded by USDA-Rural Development The Tennessee Association of Utility Districts’ Interim Finance Program was created in cooperation with the following organizations: Morgan Keegan (Program Administrator) Rubin and Hays (Underwriter’s Counsel)
For information or to request an application, please contact: John E. Hall Cell: 931-607-1014 Email: johnhall@taud.org
11
12
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
2011 Operator Certification Board Education Accrual Changes Brent Ogles Education Manager The Water and Wastewater Operator Certification Board is making changes that affect the way operators accrue continuing education credit. However, the changes are minimal and most operators will not notice any difference. These changes only come into play if someone is newly certified or has just fulfilled continuing education requirements. In the past, each time operators attended a class continuing education (CE) credit was applied towards their next requirement. According to the board changes, there may be times after receiving a new certification or after satisfying continuing education credits when operators will not receive credit when attending training. The primary logic for the new perspective is that operators can only acquire CE within a three year cycle. Since the three year cycle always ends on September 30th, the new cycle begins on October 1st. For example, a Water Treatment 4 Operator license requires 12 hours of continuing education in three years. If an operator attends a two day class on February 15, 2013 it is approved for 12 hours of credit. The operator has satisfied his/her CE requirements and the new three year cycle would begin on October 1st, 2013 and end September 30th, 2016. If the operator attended an approved class between October 1st, 2013 and September 30th, 2016, it would count. However, if he/she attended an approved class between February 15th and September 30th, 2013, it may not count because it is prior to the beginning of the new three year cycle. The illustration above shows two scenarios relating to new certifications and fulfilling continuing education requirements.
1st Quarter, volume 26
!
These changes were brought about because of a new operator tracking system that is web based and no longer housed in the Fleming Training Center or maintained by the operator certification staff. If you have questions about a specific class that you want to take and whether you can receive credit, contact Sherry Messick, Certification Program Coordinator at 615-898-6503.
13
ANNUAL 503 WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT BIOSOLIDS REPORTS DUE BY FEBRUARY 19TH , 2012! Dewayne Culpepper Wastewater Technician EPA Reporting Requirements All publicly owned wastewater treatment plants using or disposing of (land applied, given away or sold) of class A or B biosolids who operate a treatment plant designed to treat 1.0 MGD or more, or serve a population of 10,000 persons or more are required to submit a annual sludge report to EPA Region IV before February 19, 2012. This rule also applies to any wastewater treatment plant that has a state approved industrial pretreatment program regardless of size of population or flow. The annual report should contain background information on the generation, use and disposal of biosolids, results of the sludge quality analysis (pollutants), and a description and certification for pathogen and vector attraction reduction requirements. Only information and data collected during January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011 should be included. There are many publications listed and how to order at http://www.epa.gov/owm/mtb/biosolids/index.htm that can assist in meeting all monitoring, record keeping, preparing, sampling, analysis and reporting requirements for 40 CFR Part 503 Regulations. Wastewater treatment plants using or disposing of class A or B whose design flow is less than 1.0 MGD, or serve a population of less than a 10,000, or has no state approved industrial pretreatment program will not have to submit a annual report to EPA Region IV. However, systems should keep all records on file for onsite inspections that demonstrate that their sludge meets the pollutant limits (metals), class A or B pathogen reduction requirements, vector attraction reduction requirements, and management practices. USEPA Region 4 Biosolids Coordinator, Madolyn Dominy asks that any publicly owned wastewater treatment plant that disposes of sludge in an approved sanitary land field to submit a letter stating the method of their disposal practices so it will be known that that the system is not required to report. This could save your system a visit from EPA. State of Tennessee Reporting Requirements If the system is required to report to EPA, copies of all reports should be sent to The State of Tennessee Division of Water Pollution Control by February 19, 2012. This report and other information, if requested, are required to meet the NPDES permit requirements.
14
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Also, all wastewater treatment plants using or disposing of class A or B biosolids whose design flow is less than 1.0 MGD, or serve a population less than a 10,000, or has no state approved industrial pretreatment program will only have to report the quantitative data for the following parameters to The State of Tennessee: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
Arsenic 7) Cadmium 8) Copper 9) Lead 10) Mercury 11) Molybdenum 12)
Nickel Selenium Zinc Nitrite plus Nitrate, NO2, + NO3 as N Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, as N Ammonia, NH3, as N
This sludge analysis must be submitted by February 19th of each calendar year. Please check your NPDES permit for specific reporting requirements to Water Pollution Control. Bio-solids Coordinator for Tennessee Water Pollution Control, Robert G. O’Dette, has updated the recommended state guidelines for land application of biosolids and is working on proposed rules and general permit governing biosolids. If you need a copy contact Mr. O’Dette directly at 615-253-5319. Reports sent to EPA Region IV: Michael Hom Clean Water Act Enforcement Branch Water Protection Division USEPA Region 4 61 Forsyth Street Atlanta, GA 30303 404-562-9748 Office 404-562-9729 Hom.Michael@epamail.epa.gov Reports sent to TN Division of Water Pollution Control: Robert G. O’Dette Division of Water Pollution Control 6th Floor L&C Annex 401 Church Street Nashville, TN 37243-1534 615-532-0625 Robert.Odette@TN.GOV
1st Quarter, volume 26
15
General Permit for the Land Application of Biosolids Dan Martin Wastewater Technician A general permit (GP) is a permit that covers numerous facilities that have the same type of activity (land application of biosolids) and are located in a specific geographic area (State of Tennessee). A GP applies the same or similar conditions to all facilities covered under the GP. Using a GP to cover numerous facilities reduces paperwork for permitting authorities and permittees, and ensures consistency of permit conditions for similar facilities. Once the State of Tennessee has issued a GP for the land application of biosolids, a facility wishing to be covered under the permit submits a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the Division of Water Pollution Control (WPC). WPC may still require the facility to submit an individual permit application and receive an individual State Operation Permit (SOP) if it determines that coverage under the GP is inappropriate. General Permit (GP) Facts: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
A GP is a permit that must follow the process of a permit such as NPDES or SOP--placed on public notice, etc. A GP is issued for a period of 5 years. Anyone who believes they can comply with the GP can submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) which certifies that the applicant can and will comply with the requirements of the GP. The state reviews the NOI and if the state agrees issues a Notice of Coverage (NOC) which is not a "permit" but an authorization to operate per the GP. Activities related to, but not specifically covered by the GP, will have to be permitted through an individual permit. Activities currently underway can be grandfathered in once a GP is issued; however, the process is driven by the rule, and submittal of the NOI. Once a GP is issued, NOI's can come anytime during the 5-year life of the GP and if determined acceptable be given an NOC. One inherent issue with GPs is applicants are stuck with a fixed expiration date. The later in the permit cycle they submit the NOI, the shorter their permit coverage.
What happens to all NOC's once the GP expires? Typically, the state incorporates language explaining that permit coverage is administratively extended until a new GP is issued (note that GPs are not "reissued" - a new one is prepared, and it replaces the old one). If the new GP is issued in a timely fashion, permittees are given some time (30 days, typically) after the effective date to submit a new NOI. There is no application to be prepared, and 180 days time period only applies to individual permits. Since the GP does not get reissued, the system could decide that the GP is not working well for them. Then, they could decide to never seek a new one. This is unlikely, however as stated from WPC there is no language that says GP is a systems only option. What happens to those with NOC's if someone challenges the issuance of a new GP? A GP can be challenged at the time of issuance by persons that submitted comments during a public notice period or public hearing. That does not continue the permit, nor prevent other persons from submitting NOIs while an appeal is under review.
16
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Proposed Draft Rules and General Permit for Biosolids Management in Tennessee Dan Martin Wastewater Technician On December 14th, 2011, a meeting was held at the TAUD Training Station in Murfreesboro to discuss proposed draft rules regarding biosolids management in Tennessee. Bob O’Dette, M.S., P.E., TDEC State Biosolids Coordinator served as speaker at the meeting. Systems across the state attended the meeting to hear the proposed rules, ask questions and address concerns. TDEC is proposing new written rules regarding the land application of biosolids. These rules follow the EPA 40 CFR Part 503 regulations and incorporate some of the provisions contained in the State of Tennessee Guidelines for the Land Application and Surface Disposal of Biosolids. In addition to these rules, TDEC is proposing a general permit (GP) to be issued to cover the vast majority of projects applying biosolids to land. This GP will need to be issued every five years. Exceptional quality biosolids will be exempt from coverage. The official rulemaking process has not started. The Division of Water Pollution Control wanted input from affected parties to incorporate into the language of the rules. The rulemaking hearings are public meetings designed to give anyone wishing to ask questions or make comment the opportunity to do so. Comments received during this process must be reviewed by TDEC and the Water Quality Control Board and if substantive can change the proposed rule. This is an important time for anyone wishing to support, oppose or amend the proposed regulations. Visit TAUD’s website (www.taud.org) for future hearing dates and locations. After the rulemaking hearings, the comment period and review, TDEC may amend the language to incorporate changes resulting from the hearings. The final proposed language is then reviewed by the board, TDEC’s attorneys, and then sent to the Attorney General for final legal review. The proposed rules then go to the Secretary of State’s Office and after 45 days will complete the promulgation process. The rules will either be effective on that date or the date specified in the rules. This complete process can become lengthy and most likely will extend into 2013. The following is a summary of changes that were included in the proposed new rules and GP: • The EPA 503 standards state the approved test methods for monitoring are currently “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater”, 18th Edition, 1992. This has been replaced with “the methods most recently approved by USEPA”. • Some, but not all, of the setbacks contained in the guidelines have been incorporated into the rules and GP. Overall, the setback requirements are less restrictive than current requirements. • The rules and GP include the addition of PCB and TCLP monitoring “at least every five years”.
1st Quarter, volume 26
17
• The yearly reporting requirements state “in addition to printed copies, electronic copies shall be submitted”. However, depending upon the situation, a wavier for the electronic submittal requirement can be given by TDEC. • Also added was a section addressing “Transportation Equipment” and another regarding “Insurance Requirements” for contractors. During the meeting, Bob O’Dette made several changes to both documents due to comments and concerns of the attendees. Some of the questions asked during this meeting and their responses are listed below: How will the proposed fees be collected and what will they amount to? Fees will be assessed in accordance with Chapter 1200-4-11 (Environmental Protection Fund Fees). The fees for the land application of biosolids are not anticipated to be significant and/or cause any type of rate increase. The fee issue is separate from the biosolids rules and GP for the land application of biosolids. It is entirely possible to have biosolids rules and a GP for the land application of biosolids without any fees. However, in order to provide value added to the utilities in Tennessee it will be necessary for TDEC to have additional revenue to fund at least one more full time position devoted 100 percent to biosolids activities. What is the reason for TDEC to want to pursue these new rules and permit if we already have the EPA 503’s to go by? Currently, any utility land applying biosolids in the State of Tennessee must comply with 40 CFR Part 503 and state guidelines. However, Part 503 is a “selfimplementing” rule which means a utility must comply with it, even without a permit. This puts the utility in a weak and vulnerable position if their compliance is questioned legally by a third party. Under the proposed state rules and GP, every utility land applying biosolids would have better legal protection, since the State of Tennessee states they are in compliance via a permit. Additionally, the state rules and GP will help level the playing field for all utilities, in that everyone will be held to the same requirements no matter where they are located. If we already have a site approved for land applying biosolids, what do we have to do when these new rules take effect? Once the State of Tennessee has issued a GP for the land application of biosolids, a utility wishing to be covered under the GP submits a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the Division of Water Pollution Control for all sites, existing or new, that the utility wants covered. Anyone who believes they can comply with the GP can submit a
18
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Notice of Intent (NOI) which certifies that the applicant can and will comply with the requirements of the GP. The state reviews the NOI and if the state agrees issues a Notice of Coverage (NOC) which is not a "permit" but an authorization to operate per the GP. How long can a preparer anticipate the application process to take before an approval letter is generated? The utility/preparer will not receive an “approval letter”. Coverage under the GP is given by a Notice of Coverage (NOC). Coverage begins upon receipt of NOC or 45 days after submittal of the NOI unless the permittee is notified by the state. Do any of the monitoring frequencies or parameters differ from the 503’s and these new proposed rules? The monitoring frequencies and technical requirements for pollutants (contaminants), pathogens and vectors will be the same as Part 503. The only additions will be for PCBs and TCLP—once every five years. Please note that Part 503 has a requirement for PCBs requiring that the biosolids be non-hazardous, but do not require monitoring to prove compliance. By testing, a utility can prove compliance with these Part 503 requirements. TAUD will be closely monitoring this rule changing process and will keep you informed of the progress including dates and locations of public hearings as we receive them. There will also be three classes in February where Bob O’Dette will be present to discuss these proposed changes. Those will be in Murfreesboro on February 8th, Knoxville on February 15th and Jackson on February 22nd. Please visit our website for more details as they become available online at www.taud.org.
1st Quarter, volume 26
19
Young Professionals: Town of Gates Danny George, Certified Operator Interviewed by Tonia Pass Education Administrative Assistant
Q: What is your job title? A: Certified Operator – I hold licenses in Water Treatment, Distribution, Wastewater and Collection Systems
Q: What are some of your daily/weekly duties? A: I oversee the maintenance and operations of the water treatment plant and the sewer system. My duties include a lot of leak detection and line repair. Q: What brought you to this line of work? A: I really enjoy working outdoors and being an operator gave me the flexibility and freedom to be outdoors to assist customers in doing my job. Q: What did you want to be when you grew up? A: THAT’S EASY! PROFESSIONAL NHRA (prostock) DRAGRACER Danny George, Town of Gates, Certified Operator
Q: What do you love most about your job? A: Learning, when you think you have it all figured out, you learn something new! This industry changes daily.
Danny’s Pride & Joy!
Q: What is your philosophy on work and life? A: Each day is a gift don’t take it for granted. Q: What community services do you involve yourself? A:Being in the small town we are fortunate to have a lot of community wide activities. I try to do my part and volunteer for Easter egg hunts, lawn mower parade and annual Fall Festivals. My job is a community service – it’s not just a job but you truly help people when you maintain a high quality of water for their everyday use. Q: Have you experienced any challenges upon entering the utility industry? A: HAVE I? In this industry you have to devote a lot of time and work crazy hours. My greatest challenge has been being able to just be patient and get the job done. I dislike loose ends. Q: What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as a young professional? A: In 2006 I was nominated and received the TAUD Everett Severs Award for Excellence in Water Treatment. Q: What challenges do you foresee within the utility industry in the next 10 years? A: I see needing more operators in every field. The public demand is increasing every day. In most cases operators are spread pretty thin. With the state regulations we need more operators to be in compliance. Q: What advice do you have for other young professionals considering working in the utility industry? A: Stay on top of the rules and regulations the best you can --they are steadily changing. 20
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
State Proposes New Fluoride Rule
Bruce Trotter Circuit Rider The State of Tennessee Division of Water Supply is in the process of introducing new regulations for systems that adjust current levels of fluoride. The new changes include lowering the recommended level for fluoride from 1.0 parts per million (ppm) to 0.7 ppm. In addition, the present range of 0.9 ppm to 1.3 ppm currently listed in regulation 120005-01-.17 (20) will be eliminated. These changes were recommended by EPA and the Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control. They were supported by TAUD and utilities across the state. The lower limit for fluoride will result in a cost savings to public water systems in Tennessee; while they continue to provide adequate dental health to their customers. Rule changes originally proposed by TDEC suggested systems to lower the secondary standard for fluoride from 2.0 to 1.0 ppm. The proposed changes to the public notification for systems which exceed the secondary standard for fluoride were withdrawn as part of the public hearing process. TAUD would like to thank state officials for their consideration of the public comments they received concerning these two rule changes. Below are the steps taken to enforce the new rule: • Public Hearing. (Done in December, 2011) • Presented to the Water Review Board (February, 2012) • State Office of General Counsel • Signed by the Secretary of State The state anticipates this rule to be changed by mid-summer 2012. As a reminder, legislation was passed last year which requires systems to notify their customers at least 30 days in advance if they choose to discontinue adding fluoride to their finished water. If your utility is considering lowering the fluoride dose before the rule changes contact your local TDEC field office. If you have any questions concerning these rule change, please feel free to contact TAUD staff or TDEC.
1st Quarter, volume 26
21
Stage 2 Disinfection/Disinfectant By-product Rule Update
Steve Roberts Circuit Rider When Tony, Bruce, and I meet with water systems across the State, we are often asked about the Stage 2 DBP rule. Questions range from sampling schedules to compliance issues. Many operators are not familiar with the specific rule and/or rules which address disinfection by-products under Stage 2. Answers concerning Stage 2 can be found in Regulations 1200-05-01-.37 and 38 for public water systems. An overall review of each of these rules should provide the answers to many of the questions we have been asked. The following is a brief summary of each rule. Regulation 1200-05-01-.37 is called the Initial Distribution System Evaluation or IDSE rule. The main objective of this rule was to identify disinfection by-product sampling sites to be used for Stage 2 compliance. First, all community water systems were divided into groups according to their interconnections both directly and indirectly with other systems, to create combined distribution systems or CDS. The start date for the initial implementation of the Stage 2 DBP rule was based on the population of the largest system within each CDS group. CDS groups were divided into four categories. Category 1 CRS largest system serves a population of 100,000 or more. Category 2 CRS largest system serves a population of 50,000 to 99,999. Category 3 CRS largest system serves a population of 10,000 to 49,999. Category 4 CDS largest system serves a population of less than 10,000. Next, every system in each CDS group was required to submit an Initial Distribution System Evaluation or IDSE sampling plan. The IDSE plans were designed to identify areas in each system with potential disinfection by-product formation problems. The number and frequency of IDSE samples each system collected were based on the individual population and water source, i.e. surface or groundwater, of each system. Systems with DBP concentrations less than half of the MCL for both trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids, and systems serving less than 500 people received monitoring waivers for the IDSE sampling requirements. All systems, including those who received IDSE monitoring waivers were required to submit IDSE monitoring reports which identify Stage 2 sampling locations and outline specific
22
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
1st Quarter, volume 26
23
monitoring schedules for Stage 2 compliance. Regulation 1200-05-01-.38 is the compliance portion of the Stage 2 rule. 1200-05-01-.38 (1) (2) General requirements and routine monitoring: Stage 2 compliance for all systems is based on the initial CDS classifications, and will begin on the dates listed below. The sampling frequency and number of samples for both subpart H, and groundwater systems is listed in 1200-05-01-.38(2). Category 1 Stage 2 compliance begins April 1, 2012. Category 2 Stage 2 compliance begins October 1, 2012. Category 3 Stage 2 compliance begins October 1, 2013. Category 4 Stage 2 compliance begins October 1, 2013 if no Cryptosporidium monitoring is required. Category 4 Stage 2 compliance begins October 1, 2014 if Cryptosporidium monitoring is required. 1200-05-01-.38 (3) LRAA monitoring plan: The IDSE monitoring report systems submitted under the IDSE section of the Stage 2 rule can be used to meet this requirement. 1200-05-01-.38 (4) Reduced monitoring : Most systems which are currently on reduced monitoring under Stage 1 will not qualify for reduced monitoring under Stage 2 until they meet a LRAA at all sampling locations as required by either the IDSE, or compliance section of the Stage 2 rule. Exceptions are systems which received a 40/30 or very small system waivers for the IDSE portion of the rule, and systems which use only Stage 1 (existing sampling locations), as their Stage 2 sampling locations. 1200-05-01-.38 (5) Additional requirements consecutive systems : Disinfection summary forms are used to satisfy the reporting requirements for both chlorine and chloramines, required by this regulation. 1200-05-01-.38 (6) Conditions requiring increased monitoring : Section (6) requires systems which routinely monitor annually or less, to increase monitoring to quarterly if they exceed the LRAA for trihalomethanes or haloacetic acids. Compliance with the MCL is then based on the results of the quarterly samples. Systems which exceed the MCL cannot return to routine monitoring until they monitor for four consecutive quarters. Sample results, at each sampling location, cannot exceed 75% of the MCL for both THM’s and HAA5’s. 1200-05-01-. 38 (7) outlines the reporting requirements systems must meet if they exceed an operational evaluation level. Operational evaluation levels are determined by multiplying the most recent monitoring result for both THM’s and HAA5’s by two, adding the results of the two previous quarters, and dividing by four. If the average for THM’s exceed 0.080 ppm or the average for HAA5’s exceed 0.060ppm, systems exceed the operational evaluation level. Systems must conduct an operational evaluation and submit a written report to the State within 90 days after they exceed the operational evaluation level. Most systems will see an increase in DBP levels as temperatures increase throughout the year. Recording temperature at each DBP sample site can be used as documentation to identify the cause of most operational evaluation level exceedances. 1200-05-01-.38 (8) (9) (10) Requirements for reduced monitoring, Increased monitoring, and reporting : Regulation
24
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
(8) allows systems to remain on reduced monitoring when Stage 2 compliance begins, if they received a 40/30 or very small system waiver for the IDSE portion of the rule, and if they continue to use only their existing Stage 1 monitoring site for compliance under Stage 2. Regulation (9) requires systems which are on increased monitoring under Stage 1, to remain on the increased monitoring schedule until they meet the conditions which will allow them to return to routine monitoring under Stage 2. Regulation (10) systems must meet the LRAA under Stage 2. The Maximum Contaminant Level for disinfection by-products will not change under Stage 2. The MCL for trihalomethanes will remain 0.080 ppm, and 0.060 ppm for haloacetic acids. However, determining compliance when Stage 2 begins will be significantly different. Under Stage 1, compliance is based on a running annual average of all sampling sites. Under Stage 2, systems must meet a locational running annual average or LRAA for both trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids at each sampling site. If the locational running annual average, for either trihalomethanes or haloacetic acids, is exceeded at any of the sampling sites the system is out of compliance. As part of the IDSE portion of the Stage 2 rule, systems identified future monitoring sites and collected monitoring data which can be used as a benchmark for future compliance with the Stage 2 rule. The majority of systems will collect Stage 2 samples from a combination of existing or Stage 1 sites as well as new locations. In addition to collecting Stage 1 samples, systems should also collect additional samples at every Stage 2 site which is not included in their Stage 1 monitoring schedule. Stage 1 samples should also be collected at the same dates listed in the Stage 2 monitoring plan. Monitoring results from these locations can be used in determining Stage 2 compliance. We hope this summary will answer some of the questions regarding compliance with the Stage 2 disinfection by-product rule. We will discuss both treatment and distribution options, which may reduce disinfection by-product formation in the next issue.
1st Quarter, volume 26
25
Region Recap
Region meetings are held quarterly throughout the year. These meetings provide a unique opportunity to network with people in the utility industry. Speakers discuss topics that are current, informative and beneficial to utilities and related industries. Some recent topics include: updates on training, industry rules, reporting and regulation, stimulus money availability, insurance provisions, workplace safety, and what’s upcoming in new and innovative smart technology. TAUD encourages you to be ‘inthe-know’ and get involved in your region. Region 1 Fred Hicks, Region Leader October 20, 2011 Meeting Location: The Bachman Community Center in Signal Mountain Speakers/Presenters: Ben Simerl and Gary McGill of McGill Associates, Holly Austin of TN811, Kevin Rice of Johnson City EFO; Louis Trivette of USDA RD, Ken Rea of FTDD and Steve Roberts of TAUD.
26
Thank You: McGill Associates and also thank you to our door prize contributors. Next Meeting: April 19, 2012 Region 2 Drexel Heidel, Region Leader November 30, 2011 Meeting Location: Bass Pro Shop in Kodak Speakers/Presenters: Houston Daughtery of Cannon & Cannon, John Perry of CH2MHILL, Guy Leslie of Rapidview and Vallie Collins, a passenger aboard the US Airways Flight that landed on the Hudson River, Scott Holder of TN811, Mary Short of USDA RD and Dan Martin and Steve Roberts of TAUD. Thank You: CH2MHill and Rapidview and our door prize contributors: ADC, Cannon & Cannon, TN811, Trilec, Littlejohn Engineering, CTI, Consolidated Pipe, Scientific Sales, Southeastern Underwater Services, CSA, IPW and Walter A. Wood.
Region 3 Jimmy Langley, Region Leader Next Meeting: TBA Region 4 Vickie Houston, Region Leader Next Meeting: TBA Region 5 Tom Faulk, Region Leader November 3, 2011 Meeting Location: West Wilson Utility District’s Office Speakers/Presenters: Tim Tucker and Houston Daughtery of Cannon & Cannon, Paul Denson of Singer Valve, Thomas Killion of Nashville EFO, Scott Holder of TN811, Kirk Smith of CI Thornburg and Bob Freudenthal, Bruce Trotter and John Hall of TAUD Thank You: Cannon and Cannon, Eco-Tech and our door prize contributors: ADC, Trilec and On Duty Depot Next Meeting: February 1, 2012
Next Meeting: March 7, 2012
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Region 6 Kenneth Carr, Region Leader
Region 10 Tim Lawson, Region Leader
October 26, 2011
Next Meeting: February 29, 2012
Meeting Location: The office of Consolidated Utility District Speakers/Presenters: Rick Mayo, Tim Ticker and Houston Daughtery of Cannon & Cannon, Adam Boling of Sensus, Kirk Smith of C.I. Thornburg, Rodney Blake of Smithfield Mfg., Holly Austin of TN811, Larry McElroy representing the TAUD Educational Committee, Mike Wetherington representing the TAUD Associate Membership and Bob Freudenthal, Bruce Trotter, Dewayne Culpepper, Brent Ogles and Larry Lewis of TAUD. Thank You: Cannon & Cannon and C.I. Thornburg and also thank you to our door prize contributor: IPW Next Meeting: April 25, 2012 Region 7 Annie Chiodo, Region Leader September 28, 2011 Meeting Location: Bradley’s Restaurant in Waynesboro Speakers/Presenters: Annie Chiodo of Waynesboro Water Department, Jonathan Cummings of Wascon. Mike Wetherington of ADC, David Money of the Columbia EFO and Bob Freudenthal, Dewayne Culpepper, Greg Baker, John Hall, Tony Wyatt and Larry Lewis of TAUD. Thank You: ADC and Wascon and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC and Heartland Pump
Region 11 Chandrika Winston, Region Leader November 15, 2011 Meeting Location: The JEA Training Center in Jackson Johnny Halsey of Instrument and Supply Company at Region 8 mtg.
Region 8 JD Dethloff, Region Leader October 12, 2011 Meeting Location: Gander Mountain in Jackson Speakers/Presenters: Chad House and Johnny Halsey of Instrument and Supply Company, Kelly Tralongo of LexisNexis and Rodney Blake of Smithfield Manufacturing, Brenda Horner of USDA RD, Holly Austin of TN811 and Bob Freudenthal, Dewayne Culpepper, Tony Wyatt and Larry Lewis of TAUD.
Speakers/Presenters: Kelly Tralongo of LexisNexis and Jeff DeMars of RP Power, Brian Caton of the Jackson EFO, Mitch Pigg of JEA representing TNWARN, Kirk Smith of C.I. Thornburg representing the TAUD Fishing Tournament and Bob Freudenthal, Dewayne Culpepper, Greg Baker, Tony Wyatt and Larry Lewis of TAUD. Thank You: LexisNexis and RP Power and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC and On-Duty Next Meeting: February 8, 2012
Thank You: Instrument and Supply and LexisNexis and also thank you to our door prize contributor: ADC Next Meeting: April 11, 2012 Region 9 Scott Miller, Region Leader Next Meeting: March 22, 2012 For more information on becoming involved in region meetings, please contact Larry Lewis, (731) 234-0380 or at larrylewis@taud.org.
Next Meeting: April 4, 2012
1st Quarter, volume 26
27
2011 Region Recap!
Larry Lewis Source Water Protection The TAUD Region Program continues to grow each year. Each of our 11 regions try to meet once per quarter. These meetings usually start at 10 am and end at lunch. Each region has a region leader who plans an agenda for each meeting. Our Associate Members are given the opportunity to present a short program on one of their products or services. The meetings allow utility personnel networking opportunities to exchange ideas and ask the vendors questions as well as personnel from other utilities. In 2011 over 2100 people attended the region meetings with an average attendance of over 50 people at each meeting. Region 1 had 106 people at their 1st quarter meeting. We congratulate Fred Hicks and the members of Region 1 for the largest meeting in 2011. We contact every member of the region by email periodically to inform them of upcoming meetings and events. In addition to the region meeting notices, we send information about training and other events that are scheduled monthly. Our hope is that we have a contact for every utility in the State of Tennessee and that we can use our database to help keep each of you informed on issues that are important to you. If you are not receiving this information contact TAUD, and we will be happy to add you to our email database. Each of our region leaders strive to put together a
28
program that is beneficial to our utilities. Our utility members are asked to contact their region leader if they have a topic that they would like to see discussed at a region meeting. TAUD needs Associate Members to sponsor meetings and/or provide programs at the meetings. To submit a request to get involved, please contact the region leaders or you may contact me at LarryLewis@taud.org. To help promote the water industry in Tennessee we began a Best Tasting Water in Tennessee Contest in 2006. If your utility produces water and you are a member of TAUD, you are eligible to enter the contest. Each region will hold a Best Tasting Water Contest before August of this year. The 11 regional winners will compete in the final contest at the 2012 TAUD Business Conference in Gatlinburg. This conference will be held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center and is scheduled for August 8-10. The state-wide winner will be entered in the National “Great American Water Taste Contest” which will be held in Washington, DC as part of the NRWA Rural Water Rally in February 2013. TAUD will fly the winning water and a representative from the winning utility to Washington for the contest. TAUD will cover the cost of the flight and hotel for the representative. Representing Tennessee this year in Washington will be the Lincoln County Board of Public Utilities located in Fayetteville, Tennessee. Last year Region 2 held a “Best Testing Discharge Water Contest” while Region 4 and 10 had a combined “Best
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Testing Discharge Water Contest.� This contest helped to promote the work done by the wastewater plants across the State of Tennessee. Here are the region leaders and their contact information: Region 1 Fred Hicks (423) 288-6551 Fredhicksbud@embarqmail.com 2
Bruce Giles
(865) 777-2503 bgiles@fudknox.org
Gregg Morgan (865) 687-5345 greggmorgan@bellsouth.net
3
Jimmy Langley (865) 771-4160 jimmylangley@comcast.net
4
Vickie Houston (931) 484-6987 vhouston.coud@frontiernet.net
5
Tom Faulk
6
Kenneth Carr (931) 359-6831 Kenneth@lewisburgwater.org
7
Annie Chiodo (931) 722-5593 achiodo@cityofwaynesboro.org
8
JD Dethloff
(731) 742-3212 Jddethloff007@tennesseeTel.net
9
Scott Miller
(615) 441-5409 SMiller@WADC.US
10
Tim Lawson
(423) 559-8505 timoud@bellsouth.net
11
Chandrika Winston
(901) 528-4727 cwinston@mlgw.org
Steve Raper, Host
(731) 422-7210 sraper@jaxenergy.com
(615) 445-5635 Tomf@westwilsonutility.com
Please see the state map on page 26 to find your region and get involved, if you haven’t already. These are the scheduled dates for the Best Tasting Water in Tennessee Contest in each region: Region 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Date April 19 March 7 March 8 February 15 May 3 April 25 April 4 April 11 March 22 February 29 May 9
We encourage all of you to become active in your region. For more information contact LarryLewis at LarryLewis@ taud.org or one of our region leaders. You can also find more information on our webpage at www.taud.org.
1st Quarter, volume 26
29
Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station
Here’s a look at classes being offered for February through June 2012. You may register for any of these courses online at: www.taud.org, click “Training”, then click “List All” or select your desired category: -Water Treatment/ Distribution -Wastewater/ Collection -Certification Prep -Conferences -Backflow Training -Safety -Natural Gas -Commissioner’s Training 30
2/1 2/7 2/7 2/7 2/8 2/8 2/9 2/15 2/16 2/21 2/22 2/22 2/23 2/23 2/23 2/27 2/27 3/5 3/6 3/6 3/7 3/12 3/14 3/19 3/19 3/19 3/20 3/20 3/21 3/22
Cross Connection Basic - Jackson Cross Connection Renewal - Clarksville GPS/GIS Benefits, Equipment & Operation - Chattanooga Utility Security & Emergency Response Planning - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Basic - Clarksville Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Update - Murfreesboro Pretreatment Regulatory Review & Update - Murfreesboro Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Update - Knoxville Pretreatment Regulatory Review & Update - Knoxville SDWA Update for Grade 3 & 4 WT Operators - Knoxville SDWA Update for All WT Operators - Knoxville Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Update - Jackson Pretreatment Regulatory Review & Update - Jackson SDWA Update for Dist. System Operators - Knoxville Water Quality After the Metering & Customer Complaints - Murfreesboro Fundamentals of Collection Systems - Murfreesboro Fundamentals of Water Treatment - Murfreesboro Fundamentals of Wastewater Treatment Systems - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Renewal - Chattanooga Utility Security & Emergency Response Planning - Lawrenceburg Cross Connection Basic - Chattanooga Fundamentals of Water Distribution - Jackson Utility Technology Conference - Gatlinburg Fundamentals of Water Distribution - Jackson Fundamentals of Water Treatment - Jackson Water Loss: Assessment & Solutions - Murfreesboro Crane Safety/Qualified Rigger & Signal Person - Murfreesboro SDWA Update for Grade 3 & 4 WT Operators - Johnson City SDWA Update for All WT Operators - Johnson City SDWA Update for Dist. System Operators - Johnson City
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station 3/22 3/27 3/27 3/27 3/27 3/27 3/28 4/3 4/3 4/4 4/5 4/9 4/10 4/10 4/10 4/11 4/11 4/18 4/26 4/27 4/30 4/30 5/8 5/9 5/14 5/15 5/15 5/21 5/22 5/23 5/24 5/29 5/31 6/1 6/6 6/12 6/12 6/13 6/13 6/19 6/20
Structural Water Main Renewal - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Renewal - Jefferson City Practical Math for Distribution Operators - Murfreesboro Raw Water Sources (Introduction) - Murfreesboro Raw Water Sources (Intermediate) - Murfreesboro Raw Water Sources (Advanced) - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Basic - Jefferson City Practical Math for Water Treatment Operators - Knoxville SDWA Update for Grade 3 & 4 WT Operators - Murfreesboro SDWA Update for All WT Operators - Murfreesboro SDWA Update for Dist. System Operators - Murfreesboro Fundamentals of Water Treatment - Johnson City Cross Connection Renewal - Knoxville Practical Math for Wastewater Operators - Murfreesboro Utility Security & Emergency Response Planning - Knoxville Bacteriological Sampling & Monitoring - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Basic - Knoxville Confined Space Advanced (MOST) - Murfreesboro Water Loss: Assessment & Solutions - Jackson GPS/GIS Benefits, Equipment & Operation - Jackson Knoxville Cram Sessions (Water Treatment, Distribution, Collection & Wastewater) Murfreesboro Cram Sessions (Water Treatment, Distribution, Collection & Wastewater) Cross Connection Renewal - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Basic - Murfreesboro Water Loss: Assessment & Solutions - Johnson City Utility Security & Emergency Response Planning - Johnson City Water Loss: Assessment & Solutions - Knoxville SDWA Update for Grade 3 & 4 WT Operators - Chattanooga SDWA Update for All WT Operators - Chattanooga SDWA Update for Dist. System Operators - Chattanooga TAUD Operator Expo - Lebanon GPS/GIS Benefits, Equipment & Operation - Murfreesboro OSHA 10-Hour Safety - Murfreesboro OSHA Record Keeping - Murfreesboro Emergency Operations - Murfreesboro Chlorine Gas Safety - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Renewal - Memphis Crane Safety/Qualified Rigger & Signal Person - Alcoa Cross Connection Basic - Memphis CPR/AED/Basic First Aid Class - Jackson Trench Excavation Competent Person - Jackson
1st Quarter, volume 26
31
Utility Technology Conference March 14 -16, 2012 Park Vista Hotel - Gatlinburg, TN You may also register on-line at www.taud.org
Please Print (Copy this form & Mail or Fax to TAUD) Registrant 1:____________________________________________________________ Registrant 2:____________________________________________________________ Registrant 3:____________________________________________________________ Registrant 4:____________________________________________________________ Utility/Company:________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________ City:____________________________State: ____
Zip: ______________
Utility Phone: (_______) - _______ - ______________ E-mail:
____________________________________________
Registration fees: By March 1, 2012 TAUD Member $195 Non-Member $370 One day only $100
Number of Registrants
Enter Fee
X_______ X_______ X_______
$_______ $_______ $_______
X_______ X_______ X_______
$_______ $_______ $_______
TOTAL REGISTRATION FEES
$_________
After March 1, 2012
TAUD Member Non-Member One day only
$245 $470 $200
If you prefer, you can use your Master Card, American Express, Discover or Visa. Credit Card Number: __________________________Exp. Date:_________Amount: ____________ Card Holder Name: __________________________Signature: _____________________________ Billing Address: ______________________________________________ Zip:_________________ Send your payment information or check, made payable to TAUD to: TAUD P.O. Box 8041 Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37133-8041 Fax: (615) 898-8283 Questions? (615) 896-9022
32
HOTEL INFORMATION: PARK VISTA HOTEL 705 Cherokee Orchard Rd. Gatlinburg, TN 37738 www.parkvista.com Room Rate: $89 S/D Phone: (865) 436-9211
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Please Print (Copy this form & Mail or Fax to TAUD) Send form with payment to: TAUD P.O. Box 8041 Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37133-8041 Or fax form to: (615) 898-8283
2012 Operator Expo Lebanon Fair Grounds
945 E. Baddour Parkway Lebanon, TN 37087 Registration Form - May 24th
Registrant #1: ________________________________________________________ Registrant #2: ________________________________________________________ System: _________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________ City: __________________________ State: ______ Zip: _________ Phone: ( ____ ) _____ - _________ Fax: ( ____ ) _____ - _________ T-Shirt Size (Those not registered by April 29th will not be guaranteed a t-shirt) Please circle one size only (If no size is circled, one will be chosen based on availability) Registrant 1:
Medium
Large
1 X
2 X
3X
Registrant 2:
Medium
Large
1 X
2 X
3X
Calculate Fees Registration Cost Per Person $55 (by May 11) X ________ = $ ______ Late Registration & Walk-Ins $75 (after May 11) X ________ = $ ______ Grand Total = $ _________ Credit Card Payment Option VISA __
Be Sure To Check The Continuing Education Requirements
MasterCard __ Discover __ American Express___
Card Holder Name: ______________________________________________Amount: $___________ Card Card #: ___________-____________-____________-_________Exp Date: ____/______ Billing Address: __________________________________________________Zip Code:___________ Signature: ____________________________________________________________ Refund & Cancellation Policy There are no refunds available for the Operator Expo. TAUD will invoice the registrant for the full amount of the class. Feel free to contact Brent Ogles, Education Manager (BrentOgles@taud.org), or Tonia Pass, Education Assistant, (Toniapass@taud.org) should you have any questions. Thank you for your interest in our training activities! Substitutes are always welcome.
1st Quarter, volume 26
33
2012 TAUD AWARDS INFO Beth Hardiman Meeting Planner/Member Services The TAUD Awards Committee presented changes to the 2012 TAUD Awards at the November Board of Directors Meeting. We as an Association would like to honor our founding fathers by making the changes noted below: • • • •
We are combining the Water and Gas managers of the year awards (formerly Rosson & Bullard awards) and renaming it as the Alan Gill Leadership Award. In years past we recognized only general managers for water and gas. With the implementation of the Alan Gill Leadership Award we will recognize the top leader of the year as nominated and voted on by the committee. This individual could be a general manager or assistant manager who has been active within the Association and instrumental to their utility. The committee voted to rename the Wall of Fame award with the Cecil Branstetter Legacy Award. The Awards committee feels it is a fitting tribute to Cecil and his great dedication to TAUD. In 2012, we implement a Gas Operator of the Year Award. We currently have awards for both water and wastewater operators and realized that we were missing an opportunity to recognize our gas system operators. In 2010 TAUD lost a valuable co-worker and friend in Roger Booher. We can think of no-better way to honor his memory than to name an award after the younger generation for whom he was passionate about serving and mentoring. In 2012 TAUD will implement the Roger Booher Young Professional of the Year award.
Criteria for each of the awards and nomination ballots will be e-mailed to our members and available on our website. Please do not miss this opportunity to recognize someone who has been instrumental to your utility. The following awards are given each year: Alan Gill Leadership Award – honors a member utility manager or assistant manager in the water, wastewater or gas industry that exemplifies character, hard work and dedication. This individual should be active within TAUD and their utility. The utility should be in excellent financial and operational standing with the state of Tennessee. Office Manager of the Year – honors an office manager of a member utility in the water, wastewater or gas industry that is instrumental to their utility providing excellent administrative support to their manager and other utility employees. This individual should be active within TAUD. Roger Booher Young Professional Award – honors a young professional from a member utility. This individual should be under the age of 35 and can serve their utility in various capacities i.e. operator, engineer, GIS/GPS etc. The young
34
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
professional should be active within TAUD and respected by their fellow co-workers as an up and coming leader. Water, Wastewater and Gas Operators of the Year – honors certified operators that go above and beyond the normal means of service to their utility. This individual should possess a high level of knowledge and skill and be instrumental in their contribution to their utility. The operator should be active within TAUD attending training classes and conferences to better themselves and their utility. Associate Member of the Year – honors an Associate Member who gives great support to the Association and its members. This individual should be active within TAUD attending conferences, region meetings, and should be respected by other associate and utility members for their dedication to TAUD. Associate Wall of Fame – honors an Associate Member who has dedicated their professional career to the betterment of TAUD and to the service of TAUD’s member utilities. Cecil Branstetter Legacy Award – honors a utility member who has dedicated their lives to the betterment of TAUD and its members. This is the most prestigious award given by TAUD.
TN Utility News 2011 - Caldwell B&W.pdf 1 12/16/2010 12:55:32 PM
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
1st Quarter, volume 26
35
NEW
goes digital With the advent of tablets, e-readers and more, the digital age provides a new way to access publications formerly available only in print, like the Tennessee Utility News. While print may still be the preferred format for some readers, we now offer the digital format for our virtual readers. Not only does this provide new accessibilty to our readership, but hopefully, it will also allow us to decrease the amount of TUN’s printed in the future. This gives us piece of mind that we can minimize paper waste in the future and gives our readership who uses this new technology another way to view it. Best of all, this new format is free to access, use and subscribe to. In order to subscribe, users are required to create a login and password. To access the new digital format, visit www.taud.org, choose the “Publications” tab, and then “Tennessee Utility News Magazine” This technology is provided by issuu.com.
36
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Offers Cross Connection Control Program Management to Water Systems Brent Ogles Education Manager Water systems have often realized the difficulties of identifying connections that need backflow protection, testing backflow assemblies annually, tracking inspections and tests and maintaining test equipment. The Tennessee Utility Assistance TUA (a subsidiary of Tennessee Association of Utility Districts TAUD) has recently developed resources and is now prepared to offer the Cross Connection Control Management Program (CCCMP) to water systems across the state beginning December 1, 2011. With the exception of enforcement, TUA can conduct any part of the CCMP or conduct the entire program for a system. The following is a list of program activities that TUA provides: • Ordinance/Policy and Plan Development • Backflow Preventer Testing o TUA has nine staff members who possess a certificate for testing backflow prevention assemblies. o TUA maintains certified test equipment for testing backflow prevention assemblies. • Backflow Preventer Tracking o TUA maintains a secure web based tracking program accessible by the contracted system, which tracks all backflow preventer tests, cross connection control surveys and inspections. The program provides the contracted system the ability to generate reports allowing printed copies to be maintained onsite. • Data Analysis Focusing on Potential Risk Connections • Written Surveys and Analysis to Focus on Potential Risk Connections o The Division of Water Supply suggests that you produce a written survey for at least 20% of your customer connections, 2008 Cross Connection Manual • Onsite Inspections o Level One (Compliant with the Division of Water Supply, 5% of customer connections currently recommended) o Level Two (Thorough onsite inspection/evaluation for cross connection potential) • Public Education • Issue notice of Backflow Test to be performed • Issue notice of Backflow Test Results to Customer • Issue notices of Inspection For pricing and program information please collect your system’s number of connections, number of backflow preventers and number of non residential connections without backflow preventers and contact Brent Ogles at (615) 896-9022 or by e-mail at brentogles@taud.org. 1st Quarter, volume 26
37
Water Operator Wordsearch
Word Search
See word bank below puzzle. Words are positioned in all directions: forwards, backwards, diagonal, vertical, upsidedown and sometimes adjoined.
38
Get searching!
t o r e g u l a t i o n s l
bt p o ir e g g a su pl a i t p i e o l n si nl e
s b e p ci g a a p s s p d ei p n e i l fi n n o e
st er ce a n p c sh ds e a n f i e f nt y o ci
c r ams i i n i g p s
tua calibration tua gps calibration certification gps regulations certification potable pipeline regulations frog
d 28 Fin gepotable a p n o
pipeline
tr rr rc c i i ee ss pp bb ee cc ra at to or r ee xx pp oo ll w w eo oa ammr rggyy bb ee bb n no oh hp pi i ss kk cc aa bb o ct tf fr roogg l l cc nn yy i hn nr re ei i t t kk i i cc hh tt sa as ss snn f f aa i i hh bb a a ar ry ys s l l i i l l bb uu cc rr f d t o t o r d l o b d t o t o r d l o b e y w r p n r o r e i y w r p n r o r e i t h e d i r o u l f l l yh te id l i i r t ou ua ll fh a it ti al c i i t f ui at lr he a c rt aamc s i i f i in ti rg ep cs backsiphonage backflow backsiphonage gis backflow crams gispolicy crams compressor fluoride policy
compressor fluoride
utility trench safety utility confined space trench rules safety confined hydrant space rules chlorine operator expo hydrant
chlorine operator expo
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
1st Quarter, volume 26
39
P.O. Box 2529 Murfreesboro, TN 37133-2529 www.taud.org
INDUSTRY LEADER IN STORAGE SOLUTIONS
Southeastern Tank now offers all tank coating technologies and cover solutions to its customers as an authorized distributor for CST Storage. Aquastore® and Columbian TecTank® have a long tradition being the best glass-fused-to-steel and epoxy coated storage solutions in the world. Our Complete Storage Solutions are supported by resources to provide engineering and application expertise for your project. Backed by CST Storage, Southeastern Tank can bring an experienced team of construction and field service personnel to deliver a successful installation from start to finish. Stronger. Bolder. Streamlined. More powerful. With broader capability to provide the right tank for the right application – anywhere, anytime, on time.
©2011. Aquastore and Columbian TecTank are registered trademarks of CST Industries, Inc.