Operator Issue
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2 n d A n n u a l O p e r a t o r E x p o B a s s To u r n a m e n t Valve Au tops y W a s t e w a t e r Tr e a t m e n t L a b , E PA M e t h o d U p d a t e 2 0 12 B u s i n e s s o f R u n n i n g a U t i l i t y C o n f e r e n c e U p c o m i n g C l a s s e s & N E W Tr a i n i n g S t a t i o n P h o n e N u m b e r
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Tennessee Association of Utility Districts 2012 - 2013 Officers & Board of Directors Patsy Johnson, President Old Gainesboro Road Utility District Tom Atchley, Vice-President Hendersonville Utility District Pat Riley, Secretary Gibson County Utility District Freddie Weston, Treasurer West Wilson Utility District John Brown Harpeth Valley Utilities District Nick Newman Memphis Light, Gas & Water Charlie Anderson Bloomingdale Utility District Drexel Heidel West Knox Utility District David Callahan Soddy Daisy Utility District Phillip Combs Alpha-Talbott Utility District Tim Pelham West Warren-Viola Utility District Don Stafford Eastside Utility District Mike Green Warren County Utility District
Phillip Combs, NRWA Director Larry Kidwell, Associate Advisor Kidwell & Co.
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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 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 Kevin Gilliam, Middle TN, Water Circuit Rider Kevin Gilliam@taud.org (931) 636-1672 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
Utility Leadership Conference November 7 - 9 Park Vista Hotel, Gatlinburg Administrative Professionals Conference December 5 - 7 Radisson at Opryland Hotel, Nashville Leglislative Rally February 18 -19
Sheraton Hotel, Nashville
Conference information is subject to change. For the most current information and online registration, please visit www.taud.org.
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Welcome New Members: ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
AcePipe Cleaning Advanced Payment Solutions Alluvion Investments Duncan Williams Elster AMCO Water National Water Service LLC Phoenix Environmental Engineers USLI CMI Equipment Sales, Inc.
UTILITY MEMBERS
Powell Valley Utility District
Got Water Quality Problems? Then You Need a Tide Flex Mixing System! WHAT PROBLEMS DOES THE TMS SOLVE?
Spikes in Disinfection byproducts (DBP) Loss of disinfectant residual Nitrification in chloraminated systems Bacteria regrowth Variation in pH and dissolved oxygen Thermal stratification Excessive water age Ice formation For More Information Contact:
P: (931) 823-1388 JoshC@wasconinc.com
4th Quarter, volume 26
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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!
7 Region Recap 11 2nd Annual Operator Expo Bass Tournament 15 New Travel Reporting Requirement 16 Funding Made Possible by TUA 18 Value Autopsy 19 Hornbeak Breaks Ground on Phase III of Area Sewer Improvements 20 Wastewater Treatment Laboratories Have New Procedures EPA Method Update Rule 21 Pharmaceuticals and Drinking Water 22 Attention Utilities: Language for Vacancies on Board of Commissioners 23 Big Sandy, Rural Development Partnership Reduces Water Contamination Risks 26 2012 Business of Running a Utility Conference Recap 30 Friends of the Association, Awards & Recognition 32 NRWA Golf Tournament 34 Certification Questions 36 Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station 37 Scholarship Information & Cross Connection Control - Mgmt. Program 38 Water Operator Word Search Cover photo: Nathan Bouldin, Consolidated Utility District at K.Thomas Hutchinson Water Treatment Plant
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 SauvĂŠ, (615) 900-1015 or colleen@taud.org. The right to edit or deny publishing and material submitted for publication is reserved by TAUD. Additional graphic design this issue provided by Vanessa Solis.
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Thank You TAUD Associate Superboosters
Diamond American Development Corp. HDSupply Waterworks Kidwell & Company Next Generation Underwriters Southeastern Tank, Inc. Tennessee Utility Alliance Wascon, Inc. Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital LLC Platinum Alliance Water Resources Bass Berry & Sims C.I. Thornburg Co., Inc. Crom Corp. ECO-TECH, Inc. Energy Systems Group Garney Companies Inc. GRW Engineers, Inc. Jackson Thornton & Co., P.C. McWane Cast Iron Pipe Co. Regions Bank Corporate Trust S & S Utility Sales, LLC Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. Southern Pipe & Supply Tennessee 811 United Utilities, Inc. W & W Engineering, LLC 4th Quarter, volume 26
Gold ISCO Industries John Bouchard & Sons Company M&H Kennedy Valve Master Meter, Inc. Southern Sales Co. The Haskell Co. United Systems & Software, Inc. Silver Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon Branstetter, Stranch & Jennings Garver Gresham Smith & Partners Insituform Technologies, Inc. Jacobs Engineering Kazmier & Associates, Inc. Kentucky Glass Lined Tank Systems, Inc. McGill Associates, P.A. Piper Jaffray Stringfellow Inc. Veteran Management Services
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with CuStomerbaSed aCCountS. While most software links accounts to locations, QS/1 Utility Billing unites accounts directly to the people responsible for them: customers. Customer-centric accounts give you faster access to up-to-the-moment data so you spend less time chasing payments and losing revenue. What’s more, our flexible report generator allows you to generate the reports you need and export them to other software. It’s nextgeneration utility billing software 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
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS © 2011, J M SMITH CORPORATION. QS/1 is a registered trademark of the J M Smith Corporation.
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, insurance provisions, workplace safety, and what’s upcoming in new and innovative smart technology. TAUD encourages you to be ‘in-the-know’ and get involved in your region. Region 1 Fred Hicks, Region Leader July 19, 2012 Meeting Location: Bristol Motor Speedway Attendance: 82 Speakers/Presenters: Mike Hively of TideFlex Mixing System, Chuck Page of ADC, Holly Nichols of Tennessee Engineering Group, Holly Austin of TN811, Gay Irwin of the Johnson City EFO, Joe Woody of USDA RD, Ken Rea of 1st Tennessee Development District, and Bob Freu-
4th Quarter, volume 26
denthal, Dan Martin, Steve Roberts and Larry Lewis of TAUD. TN AWWA award recipients from Region 1 were recognized. Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were Wascon, ADC and Tennessee Engineering Group. Thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, Wascon, Microbac and MBI. Next Meeting: January 17, 2013 Region 2 & Region 3 Bruce Giles, Gregg Morgan and Jimmy Langley, Region Leaders September 13, 2012 Meeting Location: The LBCUD Thomas J. Vineyard Water Plant Attendance: 57 Speakers/Presenters: Mike Lazzard of Customer Service, Tony Wofenburger of Motion Industries, Mitchell Miller of Mesa Associates, Gene Knott of Dexter Fortson, Troy Taubert of Microbac, Holly Austin of TN811, Greg Mize and Greg Simcox of the Knoxville EFO, Mary Short of USDA RD, and Dan Martin, Steve Roberts and Larry Lewis of TAUD.
Thank You: W&W Engineering, Microbac, Dexter Fortson, Customer Service and Motion Industries. Thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, Microbac, Trilec, United Utilities, W&W Engineering, Michael Brady, Inc, Customer Service, Aulick and TN811. Training: TN811 held training for Collection and Distribution certifications after the meeting. Next Meeting: December 12, 2012 Region 3 Jimmy Langley, Region Leader See Region 2 for recap. Region 4 Penny Sutherland, Region Leader August 29, 2012 Meeting Location: Sunset Dock Resort Attendance: 33 Speakers/Presenters: 5th Annual Water on the Water Thank You: ADC, Wascon, Southeastern Tank, Kidwell & Co, Jacobs
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Engineering, and Rye Engineering. Thank you to our door prize contributors; ADC and Wascon. Next Meeting: November 15, 2012 Region 5 Tom Faulk, Region Leader August 2, 2012 Meeting Location: West Wilson UD Attendance: 35 Speakers/Presenters: Jeff Holmes of Schreibe, Bud Reed of Leakage Consultants, Scott Holder of TN811, Michael Murphy of the Nashville EFO, Donna Duncan of USDA RD, Chris Leauber of Water and Wastewater Authority of Wilson Co and Bob Freudenthal, Kevin Gilliam, Dan Martin, John Hall and Larry Lewis of TAUD. Thank You: Leakage Consultants and Southern Sales. Thank you to our door prize contributor, ADC. Next Meeting: February 6, 2013
Kevin Gilliam, Dewayne Culpepper and John Hall of TAUD. Thank You: Crom Corporation and Coker, Wolfe and Associates. Thank you to our door prize contributors; ADC and H2O Technologies. Thank you to the golf sponsors: ADC, H2O Technologies, Southeastern Tank, Southern Sales, Kazmier and Associates, 1st UD of Hardin Co, Heartland Pump, and Hayes Chuck Page presents check to Region Leader, Pipe Next Meeting: Region 6 will meet on January 24, 2013 and Region 7 will meet on January 2, 2013 Region 7 Annie Chiodo, Region Leader See Region 6 for recap. Region 8 & Region 11 J. D. Dethloff and Chandrika Winston, Region Leaders August 16, 2012 Meeting Location: JEA Attendance: 68
Regions 6 & Region 7 Kenneth Carr and Annie Chiodo, Region Leaders July 25, 2012 Meeting Location: Henry Horton State Park Attendance: 39 Safe Water 4 Wayne County Golf Outing: Chuck Page of ADC presented a check to Annie Chiodo to help sponsor the golf outing. Speakers/Presenters: Talmadge Mincey of The Crom Corporation, Kevin Pomeroy of Coker, Wolfe and Associates, David Money of the Columbia EFO, and Bob Freudenthal,
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Annie Chiodo to sponsor golf event.
Speakers/Presenters: Tom Titus of Wascon, Scott Holder of TN811, Brian Caton of the Jackson EFO, Becky Burgess and Tyler Hayes of USDA RD, Mike Wetherington of ADC, and Dewayne Culpepper, Tony Wyatt and Larry Lewis of TAUD. Special Presentation: Tim Rogers of Trenton Light and Water gave the group an update on his son Jay’s health condition. Nick Newman, MLGW and Pat Riley of GCUD presented a legislative recap. Thank You: ADC and Wascon. Thank you to our door prize contributor, ADC.
From left to right: Larry Lewis, Kevin Pomeroy, Greg Barton, Bob Freudenthal
Training: TN811 held training for Collection and Distribution CEU’s after the meeting. Next Meeting: Region 8 is TBA and Region 11 will meet on January 9, 2013 Region 9 Scott Miller, Region Leader September 20, 2012 Meeting Location: Greystone Golf Club Attendance: 40 Speakers/Presenters: Will Taylor of United Systems and Software, Matt Terranova of AJ Enterprises, Scott Holder of TN811, Dr. Sandra Dudley and Alan Schwendimann of TDEC, Lola Maratita of USDA RD, and Bob Freudenthal of TAUD.
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Thank You: United Systems and Software and AJ Enterprises. Thank you to our door prize contributor, ADC. Next Meeting: March 21, 2013 Region 10 Tim Lawson, Region Leader August 22, 2012 Meeting Location: Southeast Bank and Trust in Athens Attendance: 84 Speakers/Presenters: Jeff Rose and Gary McGill of McGill Associates, Rick Collins of Stone Pump and Trench, Jill Davis of Athens Utility Board, Holly Austin of TN811, David Burkley and Dr. Richard Urban of the Chattanooga EFO, Clay Copeland of USDA RD, Chuck Hammonds of SETDD, Mark McIntosh of the US Corp of Engineers, Mark Ross of TWWA, Steve Chappell of CSA and Steve Roberts of TAUD. Thank You: McGill Associates. Thank you to our door prize contributors; ADC, McGill Associates, Blue Line Solutions, Crom Corporation, Microbac, Trilec, CSA, Stone Pump and Trench, Michael Brady, Inc and Aulick Chemical. Next Meeting: November 28, 2012 Region 11 Chandrika Winston, Region Leader See Region 8 for recap.
For more information on becoming involved in region meetings, please contact Larry Lewis, (731) 234-0380 or at larrylewis@taud.org.
4th Quarter, volume 26
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
2nd Annual Operator Expo Bass Tournament: Lebanon Water System takes 1st place By Dewayne Culpepper, TAUD Wastewater Circuit Rider On May 23rd, the 2nd Annual Operator Expo Bass Tournament was held on Old Hickory Lake with a total of $4,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs for tournament anglers. A fleet of over 60 Bass Boats blasted off at 5:30 a.m. in search of a winning catch that would take home the Grand Prize of $1000.00 dollars and two custom designed bait casting rods valued at $250.00 each, built by Bryant Bradley of Consolidated Utility District. A total of 43 out of the 62 boats entered their catch at the weigh-in. This tournament was a catch & release program, meaning all fish after weigh-in were placed into a specially prepared tank on a custom pontoon boat set up to return the fish back to the channel of the lake.
See video’s on Youtube Channel TaudTv
Dewayne Culpepper & Kirk Smith filming for the 2nd Annual Bass Tournament with Jake Smith behind the camera. 4th Quarter, volume 26
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Friends of Fishing
M & H Kennedy Valve McWayne Cast Iron Pipe Co., Interstate Batteries Lebanon Chemical Co. Reed & Shows Meter Repair/ Supply Co., Inc., United Systems & Software, Inc.
Top Water Sponsors
A.Y. McDonald Branstetter, Stranch & Jennings Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc. James C. Hailey & Company Sensus Metering Systems Southern Sales Co., Inc.
Deep Water Sponsors American Development Corporation C.I. Thornburg Co., Inc. Energy Systems Group Southeastern Tank, Inc. Wascon, Inc. Wilson Bank & Trust
First place was awarded to Team #47, Jimbo Blair and Adam Wagnor from Lebanon Water System with a total weight of 17.25 pounds. The following are the official results: Place Team 1 47 2 2 3 52 4 44 5 41 6 16 7 24 8 37 Big Fish (tie) Big Fish (tie)
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System Lebanon Water System Franklin Water Management Dept. Gladeville Utility District Gladeville Utility District Ashland City Water & Sewer First U.D. of Hawkins County Cunningham Utility District Harpeth Valley Utilities District Consolidated Utility District Lebanon Water System
Anglers Jimbo Blair & Adam Wagnor Joe Holt & Mike Culberson Adam Sharp & Scott Jasper Danny Lassiter & Clev Stephens Joshua Jackson & Kevin Rollins Allen Jones & Jeremy Jones Danny Keaton & Dale Hyndman Jeremy Walker & Derek Dwyer Marlan Pelham & Chad Hale Clayton Anderson & Rodney Knight
Weight (lbs) 17.25 14.00 13.80 13.25 12.25 11.75 11.50 11.50 4.85 4.85
$$ 1k $700 $500 $300 $200 $150 Gift Gift $300 $300
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Lebanon Water System, Jimbo Blair & Adam Wagnor
Franklin Water Management Dept., Joe Holt & Mike Culberson
This year the Operator Expo Bass Tournament committee had a target goal of funding the Tennessee Utility Education Corporation (TUEC) scholarship program. The committee started back in October of 2011, the process of recruiting new committee members and developing a plan with fundraising goals and objectives. This year’s committee is comprised of Bryant Bradley of Consolidated Utility District in Murfreesboro, Adam Sharp and Danny Lassiter of Gladeville Utility District, Chuck Page of American Development Corporation, Kirk Smith of C.I. Thornburg Company, Inc and Dewayne Culpepper of TAUD. I really appreciate the hard work that this committee put forth and it showed during the tournament with the level of sponsorship monies to support tournament expenses and the TUEC scholarship program. Special thanks goes to Tournament Director, Kirk Smith of C.I. Thornburg Company, Inc., for his dedication and passion in all aspects of dealing with the tournament agenda. TAUD thanks all of our tournament volunteers. This year we reached our goal to fund the TAUD Tennessee Utility Education Corporation (TUEC) Scholarship Program, which grant a one-year $2,000 dollar scholarship in each of the three grand divisions of the State of Tennessee, totaling $6,000 dollars The 2013 Operator Bass Tournament will be held May 15th. Registration for the tournament will begin in January. Please visit our website, www.taud.org, for upcoming details.
Gladeville Utility District, Adam Sharp & Scott Jasper
4th Quarter, volume 26
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
New Travel Reporting Requirements By John Hall, Advocacy/Finance A recent addition to the Utility District law that requires certain information to be published in a newspaper of general circulation states; 7‐82‐401 (2) (d) “all travel and related cost or expenses where any portion of such costs or expenses is paid by the district or any entity or entities, public or private, associated with the district, including, but not limited to, travel for commissioners and employees;” In order to report Utility District travel expenses in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 7‐82‐401(d), all travel costs /expenses shall be reported using the following categories: • • • •
Travel costs/expenses associated with members of the Board of Commissioners. Travel costs/expenses associated with members of management. Travel costs/expenses associated with other employees. When the Utility District’s travel includes costs paid by other entities associated with the district, such costs must be requested from such entities and reported in the appropriate category listed above. If the district is unable to obtain the costs information from such other entities, a reasonable estimate of such costs should be reported. Travel information should be reported in the newspaper for the first full fiscal year after the act was passed. For instance, if the act was signed by the governor in May of 2011 and the district’s fiscal year end is September 30, the information should be reported in the newspaper within 90 days after September 30, 2012. If a district has a June 30 fiscal year end, it should be reported in the newspaper within 90 days after June 30, 2012, etc.
L E V A R T Y T I L I T U
4th Quarter, volume 26
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made possible BY Tennessee Utility Assistance, LLC (TUA) is a registered municipal advisor that provides multiple services to Tennessee’s utilities. TUA, LLC helps utilities reduce costs and increase efficiencies for day-to-day operations through obtaining financing for capital improvement projects or consolidating existing debt. TUA, LLC also provides advisory services including water audits, water loss corrective action plans, cross connection programs and other management advisory services. In addition, TUA, LLC provides access to safety and compliance training. TUA, LLC provides action on behalf of Tennessee utilities. Contact John Hall for more information at (931) 607-1014. Read about TUA’s recent loan closings below:
CUNNINGHAM UTILITY DISTRICT RECEIVES LOAN FOR BOND REFINANCING - FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE TENNESSEE UTILITY ASSISTANCE, LLC MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Officials at the Tennessee Utility Assistance, LLC (TUA) recently announced that the Cunningham Utility District of Cunningham, Tenn., has closed on a $5.13 million loan through the TUA, LLC municipal finance program. The loan will be used to refinance outstanding bonds for significant interest cost savings of over $900,000. Standard and Poor’s, one of the major credit rating agencies, assigned its “A“ rating to the Series 2012 Waterworks Revenue Refunding Bonds. The agency cited strong financial and operating profiles, including healthy debt service coverage and limited future borrowing needs, as strengths. The bond rating is indicative of careful decision-making from the District’s Board of Commissioners and leadership from District 16
management to foresee upcoming needs and make ample preparations.
CITY OF LOUDON RECEIVES LOAN FOR BOND REFINANCING - FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE TENNESSEE UTILITY ASSISTANCE, LLC MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Officials at the Tennessee Utility Assistance, LLC (TUA) recently announced that the City of Loudon, Tenn. (Utilities), has closed on a $13.62 million loan through the TUA, LLC municipal finance program. The loan will be issued in three series of bonds and used to refinance outstanding bonds for significant interest cost savings of more than $730,000, or more than 17 percent. In addition, the bonds provided $10,000,000 for financing upgrades to the waterworks system.
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Standard and Poor’s, one of the major credit rating agencies, assigned its “A+“ rating with a stable outlook to the City of Loudon, Tennessee’s Series 2012A, B and C Bonds. The rating is reflective of the strength of the cityowned utility system—Loudon Utilities Board. The rating report cites sound financials and good debt service coverage and liquidity. Loudon Utilities Board serves about 4,950 customers in Loudon and Monroe Counties. TUA, LLC served the City as Financial Advisor, and Wiley Bros.—Aintree Capital, LLC underwrote the bonds. Wiley Bros. is a 67 year-old partnership headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee specializing in underwriting utility bonds. FIRST UTILITY DISTRICT RECEIVES LOAN FOR BOND REFINANCING - FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE TENNESSEE UTILITY ASSISTANCE, LLC MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Officials at the Tennessee Utility Assistance, LLC (TUA) recently announced that the First Utility District of Hardin County, Tenn., has closed on a $2.4 million loan through the TUA, LLC municipal finance program. The loan will be used to refinance outstanding bonds for significant interest cost savings of more than $385,000. Standard and Poor’s, one of the major credit rating agencies, assigned its “A-“ rating to the Utility District’s Series 2012 Bonds. Standard and Poor’s cited strong financial and operating profiles, including healthy debt service coverage and limited future borrowing needs, as the District’s strengths. It is also a reflection of careful decision-making from the District’s Board of Commissioners and leadership from District management to foresee future needs and make ample preparations. The investment firm managing the transaction is Memphis-based Duncan-Williams, Inc. Bass, Berry & Sims PLC is bond counsel.
CASTALIAN SPRINGS-BETHPAGE WATER UTILITY DISTRICT RECEIVES LOAN FOR BOND REFINANCING FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE TENNESSEE UTILITY ASSISTANCE, LLC
Pictured left to right: Dan Martin, TAUD, Benny Oldham, manager, Bonnye Beeler, office manager, Keener Billups, Wiley Bros., Board of Commissioners President Steve Graves, Vice President William May, Charles Brown (Secretary), Jeff Oldham-Bass, Berry & Sims.
of Sumner and Trousdale Counties, Tenn., has closed on a $2.16 million loan through the TUA, LLC municipal finance program. The loan will be used to refinance outstanding bonds for significant interest cost savings of more than $583,254, which resulted in a 13 percent interest cost savings to the District’s ratepayers. Standard and Poor’s, one of the major credit rating agencies, assigned its “A+“ rating to the Utility District’s Series 2012 Bonds. The agency cited sound financials, ample debt service coverage and solid reserves as the District’s strengths. It is also a reflection of careful decision-making from the District’s Board of Commissioners and leadership from District management to foresee future needs and make ample preparations. Bennie Oldham and Bonnye Beeler have both served as the District’s General Manager and Office Manager since 2004, respectively. Current members of the Board of Commissioners are Steve Graves (President), William May (Vice President), Charles Brown (Secretary), Kenneth Keller and Jeff Cooper. The District serves about 3,825 water connections in the Castalian Springs, Bethpage, Sideview, Bransford and Phillips Hollow communities. TUA, LLC served the District as Financial Advisor, and Wiley Bros.—Aintree Capital, LLC underwrote the bonds. Wiley Bros. is a 67-year-old partnership headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., specializing in utility bond underwriting.
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Officials at the Tennessee Utility Assistance, LLC (TUA) recently announced that the Castalian Springs-Bethpage Water Utility District 4th Quarter, volume 26
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Valve Autopsy By John Singleton, Valve Boss Operation Equipment Water distribution valves fail- no one would argue that point. But why do they fail? Utilities change out bad valves on a regular basis, but how many have actually taken a valve apart to see what caused the failure? There are two main types of water distribution gate valves: “double-disc” and “resilient-seated”. Simply stated, double-disc valves use an expanding metal gate seating system while resilientseated valves rely on a rubber-encapsulated gate to provide shut-off. Since a large number of double-disc valves are still in use today, and are the most likely to fail due to low or no maintenance, we will focus on double disc valves. Gayle Rome and my friends at St. James Utilities were kind enough to supply three old double-disc valves for our research project. The first two valves were 4” and suffered from the same initial diagnosis: The operating nut would turn easily, but the valve showed no movement in the gate area. The 6” valve would operate, but some chatter of the gate was present during the stroking of the valve. Upon removing the bonnets from all three valves, it was very obvious that tuberculation and scale were the culprits. Both 4” valves had been closed for some length of time, allowing the tuberculation to virtually bond the gate mechanism to the body (Photo 1). The utility crew, unable to open the valve, did what most utility operators do in a situation like this: continue to increase the opening force until the valve moves or breaks. In the case of the 4” valves, the force of the valve stem nut fractured the top of the gate mechanisms, which is why the stems rotated easily.
Photo 1
Photo 2
Photo 3
Since it would still operate, the 6” valve was a better candidate for a valve autopsy. After removing the bonnet, a high level of tuberculation could be seen. Upon separating the two halves of the gate, along with the wedge mechanisms, it became obvious that damage had occurred to these components in the past. While tuberculation will be evident in Photo 2, it could almost be assumed the components in Photo 3 are possibly new, but in reality, they are the same parts in Photo 2 after cleaning with a pressure washer. While a utility can’t utilize the benefit of high-pressure cleaning, they can certainly use the cleansing power of flowing water in the line to flush out the corrosion causing the problem. If you consider the amount of surface friction the gate parts have, any slight movement of the valve combined with the flowing water can slowly return the valve back to health. While valve exercising equipment will certainly make the job easier, the simple act of operating a valve, even with a manual T-handle, will certainly extend the life of the valve. After viewing the internals of the valves we “autopsied”, I’ve come to believe a totally-seized valve can likely be nursed back to health- but it won’t happen in one service trip. I also believe a valve that is jammed open will be a much more likely candidate for rehabilitation than a valve jammed closed. Why? Because a closed valve has no opportunity to use the benefit of flowing water to help flush out the corrosion. Here’s what I’d suggest: Assuming the valve is open, go out and apply a moderate amount of closing force. In other words, leave the cheater pipe in the truck. If you can only get one turn going closed before the valve binds, then stop and reopen the valve. The next time you’re in the area, repeat the operation. What I believe you’ll find is you’ll slowly begin to gain a turn or two with each visit since the flowing water will continue to flush the corrosion out of the components of the gate with each operation. Time consuming? Certainly. But if you nurse problem valves back to health with a regular, documented approach, it will still take less time overall and obviously less expense than digging up the old valve and replacing it. With your donation of old valves, we’ll continue to do valve autopsies and pass along what we learn. Would you share your valve failure experiences? john@valveboss.com
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Hornbeak Breaks Ground on Phase III of Area Sewer Improvements The extension will allow about 52 households to connect to the municipal system alleviating the need for private septic systems along parts of Stover, North Main, Eason, Clemmons, Cashion, Church, Glass, Short and Poplar Streets. The improvements will also reduce the potential health-related issues for current customers as well as reduce the number of septic systems affected by a rise in the water table in this low lying area near Reelfoot Lake.
Hornbeak breaks ground on phase III of area sewer improvements
Press Release from Rural Development With much of the state experiencing unusually dry weather, one would think wet weather would bring welcomed relief. However, it can bring potential health issues. A Tennessee Environment and Conservation Commission survey of the Hornbeak area found that wet weather could render up to 78 percent of individual septic systems ineffective for some period of time. While this potential failure rate is alarming, it is also curable. RD State Director Bobby Goode joined Hornbeak Mayor Pete Burpo and other local leaders today to announce an RD low-interest loan of $78,000 and a grant of $33,000, which will be combined with a federal Community Development Block Grant of $500,000 through the State, to fund Phase III of sewer system improvements. This phase of the project includes construction of about two miles of new low pressure sewer collection lines and the replacement of the main pump station assembly at Black Oak School. “A safe, reliable septic system is a basic necessity for families, farms and businesses,” said Goode. “Making these infrastructure investments puts people to work now and it lays the foundation for sustainable economic growth through the next generation.”
4th Quarter, volume 26
Rural Development community programs finance construction and improvements to essential services like reliable access to clean water, wastewater treatment, healthcare, education, job training and first responder facilities. Loan-guarantees encourage private lenders to expand the availability of affordable financing in rural communities. Direct loans and grants create sound financial opportunities for local governments to meet essential infrastructure needs. Others participating in the event included Rep. Stephen Fincher’s staff member Heather Yarbro, State Representative Bill Sanderson, Obion County Mayor Benny McGuire, Obion County Vice Mayor Dennis Dozier, Northwest Tennessee Development District Executive Director John Bucy, Tennessee Economic and Community Development member Janna Hellums, TAUD Circuit Rider Dwayne Culpepper, Hornbreak City Recorder Joyce Truitt, Engineer Bob Nichols, RD Area Director Harriet Cannon and Area Specialist Brenda Horner. USDA Rural Development invests in jobs, infrastructure, community development, homeownership and affordable rental housing to improve the economic health of rural communities. During the last three years the agency has assisted at least 1.5 million Tennessee families and businesses in 158 communities, investing more than $2.5 Billion through affordable loans, loan guarantees and grants. For more information on Rural Development programs available in Northwest Tennessee contact the Rural Development Area Office in Union City at 731-885-6480 ext. 4, toll free at 800-342-3149 ext. 1497 or visit us online at www.rurdev.usda.gov/tn.
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Wastewater Treatment Laboratories Have New Procedures EPA Method Update Rule
By ByDewayne DewayneCulpepper, Culpepper,TAUD TAUDCircuit CircuitRider Rider The TheMethod MethodUpdate UpdateRule Rulewas waspublished publishedininthe theFederal Federal Register on Friday, May 18, and impacts organizations Register on Friday, May 18, and impacts organizations monitoring monitoringfor forcompliance compliancewith withthe theClean CleanWater WaterAct. Act. The date of these requirements went into effect The date of these requirements went into effect June June18, 18,2012. 2012. Summary Summary EPA EPAhas hasissued issuedaafinal finalrule ruleto toapprove approveseveral severalnew neworor revised analytical methods, or test procedures, revised analytical methods, or test procedures,for formeameasuring regulated pollutants in wastewater. The full suring regulated pollutants in wastewater. The fulltitle title of ofthis thisfinal finalrule ruleisis“EPA “EPA40 40CFR CFRParts Parts136, 136,260, 260,423, 423,430, 430, and 435 - Guidelines Establishing Test Procedures for the and 435 - Guidelines Establishing Test Procedures for the Analysis of Pollutants Under the Clean Water Act; Analysis Analysis of Pollutants Under the Clean Water Act; Analyand Sampling Procedures.” sis and Sampling Procedures.” Methods Update Rule Includes: Methods Update Rule Includes: • New and Revised Wastewater Methods • New and Revised Wastewater Methods • Examples of Allowed Method Flexibility • Examples of Allowed Method Flexibility • New QA/QC Requirements • New QA/QC Requirements • Clarifications and Corrections to Previously Approved • Clarifications and Corrections to Previously Approved Methods Methods to Preservation and Holding Times • Revisions • Revisions to Preservation and Holding Times
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All All wastewater wastewater laboratories laboratoriesneed needto tohave haveaacopy copyof ofthe the new method rule 40 CFR Part 136 and the approved new method rule 40 CFR Part 136 and the approved method method for for their their parameters parametersin intheir theirlaboratory laboratoryeffective effecJune 18th, 2012. You need a 21st or newer edition of tive June 18th, 2012. You need a 21st or newer edition Standard Methods or may purchase online methods. The of Standard Methods or may purchase on-line methods. 20th edition is not approved for BOD, CBOD, Chlorine, The 20th edition is not approved for BOD, CBOD, Chlo-pH, and “unapproved” for rine,DO, pH,and and18th DO, and and 19th 18th editions and 19thare editions are “unapthese and other tests. proved” for these and other tests. What What does does this this mean mean and andwhat’s what’snext? next? Mr. Ray Terhune, USEPA Region Mr. Ray Terhune, USEPA - Region44-Acting ActingChief ChiefReRegional gional DMR-QA Coordinator / ATP Coordinator, SESD - QA DMR-QA Coordinator / ATP Coordinator, SESD - QA Section, is working to get a policy together that can be Section, is working to get a policy together that can be distributed to all the states in Region IV area. When comdistributed to all the states in Region IV area. When this pleted, your inspector and the regulated industry will have is done, your inspector and the regulated industry will more guidance on what and how much QA/QC will be rehave more guidance on what and how much QA/QC will quired for each specific analytical parameter being tested. be required for each specific analytical parameter being tested.
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Pharmaceuticals and Drinking Water By Larry Lewis, Circuit Rider As EPA standards change and laboratory methods become more precise, water systems face new challenges. The implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act has helped make operators and managers more aware of their raw water quality. EPA has standards for analyses of almost 100 parameters. The laboratory standards are becoming more strict and water systems have learned they can be affected by the environment that surrounds them. Studies have shown that certain compounds, such as caffeine, aspirin and nicotine have been known to occur in the environment for over 20 years. Domestic sewage is a major source for these compounds in raw water sources. Increasingly, prescription and non-prescription medications, many of which are not effectively destroyed by sewage treatment plants, are finding their way into streams and drinking water supplies. “Monitoring across the nation has indicated the presence of pharmaceuticals in our surface water and waste water,” said TDEC Commissioner Bob Martineau. A study conducted several years ago by the United States Geological Survey found that 80 percent of 139 streams sampled across 30 states detected very low concentrations of chemicals commonly found in prescription drugs. Factors which seem to contribute to this include the increasing age of our population and the increasing number of our population suffering from cancer or other diseases. Studies have shown that older patients consume a large, disproportionate percentage of all prescription and OTC drugs. The disposal of out-dated and unused medications is one of the concerns that is being addressed by EPA and TDEC. According to information from TDEC, “Many citizens simply don’t know that throwing medication away with the household garbage or flushing it is not the preferred
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way to dispose of them,” said TDEC Commissioner Bob Martineau. As a result of this, many communities and utilities are joining with law enforcement agencies help to educate citizens on the importance of appropriate disposal of pharmaceuticals and also establish locations for the collection of these pharmaceuticals. Water systems should contact their local sheriff or police department for assistance on establishing a collection program. As part of TDEC’s new program, permanent collection bin monitors are selected from applications submitted by local law enforcement agencies, in return for their commitment to secure and monitor collection bins. TDEC sponsors the new permanent collection sites and temporary collection events throughout the year. Law enforcement agencies will have to develop a SOP for the operating and disposing of the drugs. TDEC will also require a monthly report on the total of pounds collected. TDEC would like to have a program in every county. For communities interested in becoming a permanent drop-off location, contact Kathy Glapa in TDEC’s Office of Sustainable Practices at (615) 253-8780 or at Kathy.Glapa@tn.gov. For more information about the Pharmaceutical Collection Program, including a complete list of participating counties and acceptable or non-acceptable items, please visit www.tn.gov/ environment/ea/unwantedrx. If you would like further information about this program or other programs to help with source water protection, contact Larry Lewis at (731) 234-0360 or LarryLewis@ taud.org.
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Attention Utilities: Language for Vacancies on Board of Commissioners. Submitted by John Hall, Advocacy/Finance LANGUAGE FOR ANNUAL NOTICE – VACANCIES FILLED BY COUNTY MAYOR APPOINTMENT, UMRB COMPLAINT REVIEW AND NOTICE OF COMMISSIONER VACANCY The Commissioners of ____________________Utility District serve four year terms. Vacancies on the Board of Commissioners are filled by appointment by the ______________County Mayor from a list of three nominees certified by the Board of Commissioners to the _____________ County Mayor to fill a vacancy. Decisions by the Board of Commissioners on customer complaints brought before the Board of Commissioners under the District’s customer complaint policy may be reviewed by the Utility Management Review Board of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation pursuant to Section 7-82-702(7) of Tennessee Code Annotated. In a year when a vacancy will occur on the District’s Board of Commissioners, you may add the following sentence: A vacancy will exist on ____________, 201__ on the District’s Board of Commissioners due to the expiration of the term of a current member of the Board. The Board plans to certify a list of three nominees to the _________ County Mayor to fill this vacancy at its regular meeting on ______________. A customer may submit a name for consideration by the Board for the list of nominees. To be considered the name must be mailed to the District’s General Manager no later than one week before this Board meeting. Qualifications established by the Board for nominees are available upon request.
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Big Sandy, Rural Development Partnership Reduces Water Contamination Risks Press Release from Rural Development
Local leaders of Big Sandy are putting into effect the old adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” when it comes to their water supply. Currently the town’s water supply comes from the Highland Rim Aquifer System through four groundwater wells. However, sandy soil conditions in the area increase the risk of contamination. RD State Director Bobby Goode joined Big Sandy Mayor Ron Lane and other local leaders today to announce a federal grant of $500,000 to fund improvements to the treatment system. The grant will be used to repair the current sewer system to prevent leakage that could reach potable water. The town has noticed a heightened flow entering the wastewater treatment plant since the 2010 floods and recent wet weather events which have resulted in leaks within the lagoon berm. The project will construct a mile of gravity sewer repairs, including lining and berm improvements. The repairs will also remove infiltration and inflow which will reduce the contamination risk. “Safe, reliable drinking water is a basic necessity for families, farms and businesses,” said Goode. “Making these infrastructure investments puts people to work 4th Quarter, volume 26
now and it lays the foundation for sustainable economic growth in the area through the next generation.” Rural Development community programs finance construction or improvements to essential services like reliable access to clean water, wastewater treatment, healthcare, education, job training and first responder facilities. Loan-guarantees encourage private lenders to expand the availability of affordable financing in rural communities. Direct loans and grants create sound financial opportunities for local governments to meet essential infrastructure needs. Others participating in the event included Sen. Lamar Alexander’s Representative Matt Varino, Sen. Bob Corker’s Representative Jennifer Weems, Rep. Stephen Fincher’s Representative Scott Golden, Rep. Marsha Blackburn’s Representative Steve Allbrooks, Northwest Tennessee Development District Planner Rob Goad, Tennessee Association of Utility Districts representative Dewayne Culpepper, Big Sandy City Recorder Debbie Wright, Big Sandy City Clerk Bonita Finch, Big Sandy Public Works Mike Roger, Steve Pierpoint and Daniel Tidwell, Heathcoat and Davis Engineers representative John Allen, RD Area Director Harriet Cannon and Area Specialist Brenda Horner. 23
USDA Rural Development invests in jobs, infrastructure, community development, homeownership and affordable rental housing to improve the economic health of rural communities. During the last three years the agency has assisted at least 1.5 million Tennessee families and businesses in 158 communities, investing more than $2.5 Billion through affordable loans, loan guarantees and grants. For more information on Rural Development programs available in northwest Tennessee contact the Rural Development Area Office in Union City at 731-885-6480 ext. 4, toll free at 800-342-3149 ext. 1497 or visit us online at www.rurdev.usda.gov/tn.
Save the Date! Find conference information online at w w w.taud.org or in the 2013 Conference & Event Guide
Utility Leadership Conference November 7 - 9 2012 Park Vistal Hotel, Gatlinburg Administrative Professionals Conf. December 5 - 7 2012 Radisson Hotel, Opryland Legislative Rally February 18 - 19 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Nashville Utility Technology Conference March 13 - 15 2013 Park Vista Hotel, Gatlinburg For more information, you may also call (615)896-9022 or email taud@taud.org
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
2013 Utility Technology Conference - 12 hrs CE WATER TREATMENT DISTRIBUTION COLLECTION WASTEWATER PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER MARCH 13 - 15 The Utility Technology Conference provides attendees with the latest information in technology and daily operations used by utility operators. Attendees may acquire continuing education credit for certified operator licenses in Tennessee as well as professional development hours for professional engineers. Conference will be held in Gatlinburg at the Park Vista Hotel.
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2012 Business of running a utility conference By Beth Hardiman, Meeting Planner/Member Services The 2012 Business of Running A Utility Conference was held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center August 8-10th. With an attendance of over 750 and 115 exhibit booths this year’s conference boasted record breaking attendance. Prior to the Wednesday night opening reception, conference attendees participated in the TUPAC Golf Tournament held at River Island Golf Course and the TUPAC Trap Shoot held at the Gatlinburg Sportsman Club. TAUD’s Super Session presenter, Vallie Collins, was a passenger on US Airways Flight 1549 that landed on the Hudson River. She recounted her experience and inspired attendees with the details and takeaways of that historic day. While Vallie was speaking, Dr. Sandra Dudley of TDEC, US Congressman Scott DesJarlais, Bobby Goode of USDA and media personnel from ABC Affliate WATE of Knoxville, Matt Hinkle, judged the statewide Best Tasting Water Contest. Maynardville Utility District of Region 3 was the statewide winner and will participate in the NRWA Great American Taste Test next February in Washington, D.C. This year’s conference provided up to eight hours of certification training for utility commissioners, managers, office managers and operators. TAUD recently purchased a new bar code system to more efficiently and effectively track certification sessions. Being able to better track session attendance will provide additional support for TAUD staff to omit errors and take out the “guess work” should an attendee misplace a CE form. The Association appreciates your loyal support in attendance and look forward to another fantastic Business Conference August 7-9, 2013 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
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Super Session presenter, Vallie Collins, Passenger from Flight 1549 - Miracle on the Hudson
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Steve Wear of Arkansas was elected to the Executive Board of the National Rural Water Association’s Board of Directors during the board meeting held Feb. 8th in Washington, D.C. Wear was elected as an NRWA National Director in 2006. He has also served on the board of the Arkansas Rural Water Association since 1996, including terms as president and legislative chair. Steve and his wife Connie are residents of Morrilton, Ark., where he is the assistant manager of the Conway County Rural Water Distribution District. Steve represented NRWA at this year’s Business Conference. NRWA Director, Steve Wear
Tennessee’s Best Tasting Water Contest Winner: Maynardville Utility District
Bobby Goode of USDA, Matt Hinkle of ABC Affiliate WATE in Knoxville, US Congressman Scott DesJarlais, Michael Payne & Jim Warwick of Maynardville Utility District, Dr. Sandra Dudley of TDEC and Patsy Johnson TAUD Board President Judges rating the clarity, bouquet and taste of each regional winner’s sample.
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over 750 Attendees and 115 exhibit booths
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TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
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Friends of the Association
AWards
Whereas, it is fitting that members of the
Tennessee Association of Utility Districts should pause to recognize those persons that have made substantial contributions to the utility industry in the State of Tennessee. We hereby express our sincere appreciation for your dedication and generous commitment of time and support to our endeavors. On August 9th, US Congressman Scott DesJarlais, USDA’s Bobby Goode and Ken Yager not pictured, were all honored as a Friend of the Association:
US Congressman Scott DesJarlais
USDA, Bobby Goode
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Associate of the Year: Kirk Smith, C.I. Thornburg, pictured with TAUD President Patsy Johnson
Administrative Professional of the Year: Robin Phillips, Soddy Daisy Falling Water Utility District, pictured with TAUD President Patsy Johnson
Young Professional of the Year: Jeremy Jones, First Utility District of Hawkins County, pictured with TAUD President Patsy Johnson
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
AWards & Recognition
Alan Gill Leadership Award: David Amburgey, Old Hickory Utility District, pictured with TAUD President Patsy Johnson
20 years of service to TAUD: TAUD Source Water Technician, Larry Lewis, pictured with TAUD President Patsy Johnson
Cecil Branstetter Legacy Award: Larry McElroy, Consolidated Utility District, pictured with TAUD President Patsy Johnson
5 years of service to TAUD: TAUD Wastewater Circuit Rider, Dan Martin, pictured with TAUD President Patsy Johnson
Region Leader of the Year: Tom Faulk, Region 5. Brent Finley accepted this award on his behalf.
2012 Region Leaders, front row left to right: Penny Sutherland, Vickie Houston, JD Dethloff, Patsy Johnson back row left to right: Kenneth Carr, Bruce Giles, Jimmy Langley, Scott Miller, Tim Lawson:
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NRWA Golf Tournament The NRWA State vs State Golf Challenge was held on September 23, 2012 at the Gaylord Springs Golf Links in Nashville. This year 78 golfers participated in the tournament with Tennessee bringing home the tournament trophy, see left. A special thanks to Mike Clingenpeel of HD Supply Waterworks and Dustin Dowdy of Southeastern Tank as well as Aquastore/CST Storage for being platinum sponsors and underwriting the cost of this successful tournament.
Championship Flight Thanks to all our sponsors: Hole Sponsors: Aclara Technologies Aquastore/CST Storage Arkansas Rural Water Association Badger Meter CoBank DN Tanks HD Supply Waterworks Illinois Rural Water Association Kentucky Rural Water Association Oklahoma Rural Water Association Pacific Tank Solutions Raymond James/Morgan Keegan Rural Water Association of Utah Southeastern Tank, Inc. SSR TAUD TUA Beverage Sponsors: Engineering America McWane Pipe Mulligan/Red Tee Sponsor: GRW
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1st Place Mike Clingenpeel Jeff Cole Andy Santi Randy Cole 2nd Place Kenny Graham Jay Hides Brett Pyles Brad Richardson 3rd Place Alan Dennis Larry McElroy Zachary Romaine Tammi Spencer
2nd Flight
1st place Jerry Gammill James Gammill Jerry Seago J.R. Welch 2nd Place Dustin Dowdy Dave Bowyer Chris Forbes Marc Nichols 3rd Place Greg Bates Frank Dunmire Perry Musgrave Jeff Tumiati
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Individual Prizes were also given to: Closest to the Pin
#3 #8 #13 #17
Vern Steel Bruce Morrison Ryan Miller Jeff Cole
Straightest Drive
#7 Brett Pyles
Longest Drive (Women)
#10
Tammi Spencer
#1
Randy Cole
Longest Drive (Men)
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Certification Questions
Wastewater Questions
1. Which of the following is an offensive smelling organic gas found in wastewater treatment plants? a. carbon dioxide b. mercaptan c. nitrogen d. methane 2. Physical characteristics of industrial waste which can affect the operation of the chemical, mechanical and biological activities of wastewater treatments include: a. viscosity b. solubility c. temperature d. a & b only e. a, b & c 3. According to the Design Criteria for sewage works for the State of Tennessee, what is the minimum requirement for dissolved oxygen levels in flow equalization tanks in mg/L? a. 0.5 b. 1.0 c. 1.5 b. 2.0 c. 2.5 4. Which of the following is the FIRST indication that a strong toxic industrial substance has entered the activated sludge plant? a. decrease in effluent suspended solids. b. decrease in in oxygen concentration in the aeration basin c. increase in dark foam d. increase in odor e. increase in oxygen concentration in the aeration basin 5. Which type of cave-in protection
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provides the best and most practical way to protect workers in deep excavations? a. contouring b. drag shields c. shoring d. sloping 6. What is the best velocity of wastewater flow through grit chambers in feet per second? a. 0.5 b. 1.0 c. 1.5 d. 2.0 e. 2.5
Collection Questions
1. A device that converts the signal generated by the sensor into a signal that can be sent to the receiverindicator over the transmission channel is called a ____________. a. signal converter b. transmitter c. receiver d. totalizer 2. A condition that can occur when pumps are run too fast or water is forced to change direction quickly, causing a partial vacuum near the pipe wall or impeller blade and causes potentially rapid pitting of the metal is called _____________. a. backsiphonage b. water hammer c. thrust d. cavitation 3. The rotating set of vanes that force water through a pump are called ________. a. impellers b. brushes c. propellers
d. coils 4. In Tennessee, all sewage lines must be provided with sufficient earth or other suitable cover to prevent freezing. What is the minimum amount of cover necessary, measured above the top of the pipe? a. 6 inches b. 12 inches c. 18 inches d. 24 inches e. 30 inches 5. A flagger should be located a minimum of _____ from the work site. a. 150 ft b. 50 ft c. 100 ft d. 200 ft 6. How many 5000 gal truckloads will be required to empty a full cylindrical wetwell with a diameter of 40 ft and a depth of 15 ft? a. 1 b. 8 c. 22 d. 28 e. 43
Distribution Systems
1. Whenever there is a physical connection between a potable water system and a non-potable water system, _____ can occur because of backpressure or back siphonage. a. airlocking b. backflow c. dynamic siphoning d. all of the above e. none of the above
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
5. An air gap should be at least two pipe diameters, but not less than _____ inche(s). a. one b. two c. four d. six e. eight 6. A _____ consists of two springloaded check valves with a pressureregulated relief valve located between them. a. air gap b. barometric loop c. double check valve d. reduced pressure backflow preventer e. vacuum breaker
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1. Which of the following is NOT true of a dry chemical feeder? a. used to feed chemicals in powder form b. used to feed chemicals in crystalline form c. used to feed chemicals in solution form d. all of the above e. none of the above 2. Gravimetric dry chemical feeders measure chemical feed by _______________. a. weight b. volume c. pressure d. all of the above e. none of the above 3. Volumetric dry chemical feeders measure chemical feed by ______________. a. weight b. volume c. pressure d. all of the above e. none of the above 4. Volumetric dry chemical feeders are _______________. a. less expensive to purchase and maintain than gravimetric feeders b. simpler to operate than gravimetric feeders c. generally less accurate than gravimetric feeders d. all of the above e. none of the above 5. Gravimetric dry chemical feeders ______________. a. can deliver large quantities of chemical b. are extremely accurate c. are relatively expensive d. all of the above e. none of the above
Wastewater Answers: 1. b, 2. e, 3. b, 4. e, 5. c, 6. b Collection Answers: 1.b, 2.b, 3.a, 4.e, 5.c, 6.d Distribution : 1. b, 2.d, 3 a, 4.d, 5.a, 6.d
4. Which of these establishments require an air gap or reduced pressure backflow preventer? a. automated car wash b. food processing plant c. labs d. all of the above e. none of the above
6. Variations in the density of a chemical have no effect on _________________. a. solution feeders b. volumetric dry feeders c. gravimetric dry feeders d. all of the above e. none of the above
Water Treatment: 1.e, 2.a, 3.b, 4.d, 5.d, 6.c
3. Vacuum breakers should be installed _____ the last control valve. a. downstream of b. in line with c. upstream d. all of the above e. none of the above
Water Treatment
Certification Questions
2. Reduced pressure backflow prevention devices should be tested at least every once every _____ months. a. three b. four c. six d. twelve e. twenty-four
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Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station
Here’s a look at classes being offered for November through January 2013. 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 36
11/7 11/13 11/14 12/4 12/5 12/5 12/6 1/8 1/9 1/10 1/15 1/16 1/22 1/23 1/23 1/29 1/29 1/30
TAUD Leadership Conference - Gatlinburg Cross Connection Renewal - Murfreesboro Basic Cross Connection - Murfreesboro SDWA Update for Grade 3 & 4 Water Treatment Plant Operators - Jackson SDWA Update for All Water Treatment Plant Operators - Jackson Administrative Professionals Conference - Nashville SDWA Update for Distribution System Operators - Jackson SDWA Update for Grade 3 & 4 Water Treatment Plant Operators - Murfreesboro SDWA Update for All Water Treatment Plant Operators - Murfreesboro SDWA Update for Distribution System Operators - Murfreesboro Cross Connection Renewal - Murfreesboro Basic Cross Connection - Murfreesboro Confined Space - Chattanooga Trench Excavation Competent Person - Chattanooga Cross Connection Renewal - Memphis Cross Connection Renewal - Jackson Practical Math for Water Treatment Plant Operators - Murfreesboro Basic Cross Connection - Jackson
You Can Now Call the TAUD Training Station Direct!
(615) 900-1000
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
Scholarship Information 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. • The recipient must complete a full semester of study with a minimum overall grade point average of 2.5 to avoid reimbursement of the scholarship. Deadline for submission is March 1, 2013. If you have questions, contact Brent Ogles at (615) 896-9022 or by e-mail at brentogles@taud.org.
Cross Connection Control - Management Program TUA provides: • • • • • 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 developed the Cross Connection Control Management Program (CCCMP) and is now offering the program to water systems across the state. With the exception of enforcement, TUA can conduct any part of the CCCMP or conduct the entire program for a system. The following is a list of program activities that 4th Quarter, volume 26
• • • • •
Ordinance/Policy and Plan Development Backflow Preventer Testing Backflow Preventer Tracking Data Analysis Focusing on Potential Risk Connections Written Surveys and Analysis to Focus on Potential Risk Connections Onsite Inspections 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.
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Water Operator Word Search
38
Word Search
See word bank below puzzle. Words are positioned in all directions: forwards, backwards, diagonal, vertical, upsidedown and sometimes adjoined.
Get searching!
frog Find ge 20 a on p TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
4th Quarter, volume 26
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P.O. Box 2529 Murfreesboro, TN 37133-2529 www.taud.org
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