★ WaterOperator.org serves as a clearinghouse for resources and support specifically tailored to small utilities, providing easy access to information operators need. ★ Learn about the technical assistance and water loss surveys available to help small systems detect and fix leaks in their water distribution systems, saving money and improving efficiency. ★ Small systems can access free assistance from organizations like RCAP, funded by the EPA, to help identify problems and secure funding for infrastructure improvements. ★ Discover the importance of creating asset management plans to ensure small systems are financially sustainable and able to address future infrastructure needs. ★ Explore how small communities can overcome workforce shortages, prevent loss of trained operators to larger systems, and promote collaborative approaches, like shared operators, for more sustainable operations. ★ Learn about innovative decentralized wastewater systems and their role in solving infrastructure challenges for remote communities.

★ All in one water tank maintenance, including cleaning, inspections, repairs, and coatings for both steel and concrete structures. ★ Comprehensive services for plant rehabilitation, focusing on aging infrastructure like filter tanks and wastewater treatment facilities. ★ Discover the benefits of spray-in-place pipe (SIPP) technology, a cost-effective solution for repairing leaks in water mains without excavation. ★ Cost reduction and extended lifespan of pipes through improved structural integrity and enhanced water flow. ★ A one-stop-shop experience offering solutions for meters, distribution systems, and water quality improvement, supported by a team of 42 in-house engineers. ★ Tailored maintenance and rehabilitation services for smaller water systems, ensuring reliability and efficiency.

★ TerraGenesis specializes in managing wastewater residuals for municipalities and industrial customers. ★ Solutions include lagoon cleanouts, biosolids land application, and digestor cleaning. ★ Sonar-based bathymetric surveys provide accurate estimates of solids storage in lagoons. ★ The regulatory climate continues to tighten, but TerraGenesis offers solutions that align with evolving rules. ★ Nutrient management, PFOS treatment, and T Norm regulations impact biosolids treatment processes. ★ TerraGenesis works with public works directors, engineers, and municipalities to maintain compliance and manage costs effectively. ★ Their innovative approach combines decades of experience with practical tools like remote, unmanned sonar boats for efficient lagoon assessments.

★ Learn about the importance of selecting products that bring unique, specifiable solutions to the market. ★ Explore the balance between innovation, affordability, and reliability in the water treatment industry. ★ Understand how Ambiente H2O focuses on user-friendly technologies that require minimal maintenance, essential in an industry facing a shortage of skilled operators. ★ Gain insights into the decision-making process behind building a product lineup that addresses current challenges like nutrient removal. ★ Discover how Ambiente H2O serves small to medium-sized clients, offering practical and effective water treatment solutions that are easy to implement and maintain.

★ Grouting seals cracks and joints in sewer pipes, preventing I&I and supporting pipe integrity.

★ Manhole grouting involves injecting grout around the exterior to effectively seal leaks and maintain structural stability.

★ Grouting provides a comprehensive solution compared to CIPP, addressing leaks directly at the source.

★ Lateral grouting targets common I&I issues at lateral connections, sealing leaks up to six feet from the main line.

★ The Spider Cam offers 360-degree imaging and stereo technology to measure manhole wall thickness and detect structural issues.

★ CUES supports municipalities and contractors with equipment, training, and technical assistance, offering rental options for specialized projects.

★ Emphasis on proactive maintenance schedules to avoid costly emergency repairs and system downtimes. Routine cleaning and inspection of water storage tanks every three to five years ensure water quality and system integrity. ★ Cleaning and inspecting tanks while they are in service, avoiding system downtime and loss of fire protection. ★ Importance of removing sediment buildup, especially from sandy wells, to prevent wear on pumps and other components. ★ Discussion on the advantages of concrete tanks for durability and lower maintenance, and the challenges associated with bolted steel tanks. ★ Real-life incident in Colorado highlighting the necessity of routine inspections, where an elk collapsed a tank roof, leading to contamination.

★ The Circuit Rider Program has been a cornerstone of CRWA's support since 1980, offering technical help to ensure the smooth operation of small water systems.

★ CRWA's mission is driven by passion, focusing on protecting community health and improving water systems across Colorado.

★ The organization works with various programs, including US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), USDA, and the State of Colorado, to offer a wide range of services and support.

★ CRWA's Test and Fix Water for Kids program targets contamination in drinking water in daycare facilities and schools.

★ Asset management and identifying infrastructure assets are crucial for obtaining state revolving funds and grants.

★ CRWA's apprenticeship program aims to bring new talent into the water industry, bridging the gap between retiring experts and new workers.

★ Managing multiple grants, CRWA ensures all deliverables are met, providing extensive support to underserved and tribal communities.

★ The State Revolving Fund Environmental Finance Center (SRF EFC) representative coordinates with engineering firms to secure funding for infrastructure projects.

★ CRWA's efforts focus on creating well-rounded water operators who can manage diverse responsibilities within small communities.

In this episode of "Engineers for Communities," join me as I host Sam Wade, the former CEO of the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) and current Water Consultant to Napoli Shkolnik Law. NRWA has partnered with Napoli Law to create the PFAS Cost Recovery Program to help water and wastewater systems recoup money spent on treatment and remediation. Over $14 billion in settlements have been won so far with more to come. This episode provides the latest updates on the litigation efforts & clarifies how participation in the settlement is like a "insurance policy without a premium" for public water utilities who have detected or will detect any PFAS in their water supply. ★ Understanding PFAS: Wade explains what PFAS are, their widespread use, and the environmental and health impacts of these "forever chemicals." Learn about the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s new regulations on PFAS and the financial burden they place on water utilities. ★ PFAS Cost Recovery Program Background: Discover why the National Rural Water Association engaged in litigation against PFAS manufacturers and the goal of alleviating financial impacts on ratepayers. ★ Ensuring Access to Funds: Understand the importance of registering for litigation even if a utility currently has no PFAS detections, as a safeguard for future testing. Sam provides insights on how water utilities can apply for funds from the settlements and the necessary documentation required. ★ 3M ($12.5 B) and Dupont ($1.185 B) Settlements: Phase 1 Utilities who have tested PFAS prior to June 22, 2023, have a deadline of July 24, 2024, to complete the form to participate in the settlements. Utilities who tested after June 22, 2023 (UCMR 5) will still be included in the settlement as Phase 2 Utilities ★ 12 More Settlements in progress: Wade estimates that over $20 billion will be distributed to public water utilities by the time all the settlements are completed ★ How Much for Each Utility: Wade discusses how the funds will be distributed to each utility, noting the proportionality to contaminant loading over time and availability of a Fund Estimate Calculator for the 3M and DuPont Settlements ★ Case Study: Hear about real-life examples, such as the town council of a small community in the Northeast, and their journey from skepticism to active participation in the litigation. ★ Wastewater & Biosolids Next: Discussing the future implications for wastewater systems and the ongoing efforts to address PFAS contamination in biosolids.

★ Electricity cleans water by converting heavy metals from ionic forms to sand and bursting bacteria. ★ The synergy between electrocoagulation and microalgae creates a powerful lagoon treatment process. ★ Electrocoagulation has been operational since 1985, with advancements enhancing its efficiency. ★ The regulatory landscape is evolving, with state approvals paving the way for broader adoption. ★ Electrocoagulation effectively handles uncharged particles through van der Waals forces and water polarity manipulation. ★ The process also destroys PFAS chemicals, ensuring compliance with future regulations. ★ Integrating electrocoagulation with other settling technologies optimizes water treatment outcomes. ★ The technology's versatility allows it to treat various contaminants beyond lagoons, demonstrating broad application potential.

★ Advanced Algae Control Technology: Greg explains how LG Sonic's ultrasound system effectively controls algae in reservoirs and lakes without chemicals. ★ Chemical-Free Solution, Improving Eco-System Health: Discover the benefits of using ultrasound over traditional chemical treatments, which can create secondary issues and release toxins. Understand how LG Sonic's solution supports overall ecosystem recovery by minimizing the impact on non-target organisms. ★ Interactive Algae Control: Learn about LG Sonic's adaptive approach, which uses real-time water quality data from a monitoring buoy to optimize algae treatment. ★ Solar-Powered and Autonomous: The MPC Buoy is solar-powered with battery backup, reducing the need for external power sources and manual intervention. ★ Global Applications and Success Stories: Hear about successful implementations from around the world, including the impressive results at the City of Archie Water. ★ Cost-Effective and Sustainable: Explore the significant return on investment, with case studies showing under one year payback period due to chemical savings and reduced plant maintenance.