MAY 2024

Lead and Copper

Rule Improvements:
What Happens Next?

PLUS:
-Funding New Treatment Mandates
-Lessons In Water Stewardship
-Rethinking Stormwater
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT
FROM A TURBO BLOWER?
AERZEN TURBO

Navigate product
Operation in hot environments (up to 122 Degrees F)
Long-life airfoil bearing (>80,000 start cycles)
Superior response to changes in system demand (sequencing, upsets)

certification
Operation with other blower technologies

for federally funded water

infrastructure projects

The complex waters of certification requirements can be daunting.

Let us guide you through selecting the right products and certifications to
achieve federally funded project compliance and documentation. Trust in
Mueller, your domestic manufacturing partner.

Don’t get too far

Tom McCurdy, Director of Environmental Sales
down the “pipe”
Phone: +1 610 656 1683 Reach out to us early to discuss your project.
E-Mail: tom.mccurdy@aerzen.com Compressed air, gas
© 2024 Mueller Water Products, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Mueller refers to one or more of Mueller Water Products, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“MWP”), and its subsidiaries. MWP and each of its
Web: www.aerzen.com and vacuum solutions subsidiaries are legally separate and independent entities when providing products and services. MWP does not provide products or services to third parties. MWP and each of its subsidiaries are liable
only for their own acts and omissions and not those of each other. MWP brands include Mueller®, Echologics®, Hydro Gate®, Hydro-Guard®, HYMAX®, i2O®, Krausz®, Jones®, Mi.Net®, Milliken®, Pratt®, Pratt
Industrial®, Sentryx™, Singer®, and U.S. Pipe Valve & Hydrant.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
May 2024
@WaterOnline

Editor’s Insight

6 From Scarcity To Stewardship To Sustainability

So Much More Than
Articles
a Smart Water Meter
18 Flowing Forward: How
8 Funding The Fight Technology Is A Necessity For
Against PFAS And Lead Solving The Water Sector’s
In Drinking Water Growing Challenges

10 The Zen Of 20 Aqua From The Air:

Stormwater The Promise Of Fog
Management And Land Harvesting For Clean
Development Water Access

14 Awaiting The Final

Lead and Copper Rule Advertiser Index
Improvements: Aerzen USA Corporation........................................................C2

What Happens Next? MUELLER...........................................................................................3

Kamstrup..........................................................................................5

Krohne, Inc.................................................................................... 12

16 How Monitoring Vaughan Co. Inc......................................................................... 13

Scan to Watch
Treatment Processes YSI..................................................................................................... 17 Featuring Acoustic Leak Detection and AMI Case Study
Drives Efficiency And KLa Systems, Inc......................................................................... 22 Communications Embedded Inside the Meter –
Confidence Myron L Company.................................................................... 23
it’s no surprise that Kamstrup is leading the industry
with more installed ultrasonic meters, more satisfied
customers, and more revenue captured for utilities.

Experience More at Kamstrup.com IT’S TIME TO KNOW

4 wateronline.com n
Water Innovations
 FROM THE EDITOR
By Kevin Westerling
101 Gibraltar Road, Suite 100
Chief Editor, editor@wateronline.com Horsham, PA 19044
reads in terms of where water’s going and where it’s being used, and we get immediate feedback PH: (215) 675-1800
if something’s going wrong. If there’s a leak somewhere, operators can address it right away. In Email: info@wateronline.com
Website: www.wateronline.com
the past, operators would be walking around with a clipboard taking readings and then get to the

From Scarcity To Stewardship To Sustainability

issue a day or two later. Through digitization, we have real-time information that significantly
helps to manage the process, identify the issues, and get on top of them as soon as possible.
CHIEF EDITOR
Kevin Westerling
How do you know it’s the right time to embrace and invest in water reuse, (215) 675-1800 ext. 120

E
kwesterling@vertmarkets.com
digitalization, and other water-saving practices from an ROI point of view?
very drop of water counts, but place and the data and systems to help enable Some here in the U.S., outside the water-scarce Southwest, may not see PUBLISHER
Travis Kennedy
when we talk about our collective our people to work toward this water journey. the value. (215) 675-1800 ext. 122
conservation efforts for the When we’re at the point where all our I think we need to be careful about pigeonholing water in terms of costs. We need to have a very tkennedy@vertmarkets.com
greater good, it’s natural to think operations are running as efficiently as we holistic view of the associated benefits that accrue as a result of implementing a new technology.
PRODUCT MANAGER
about high-volume users. Those users are can get them, then we start looking at the One of the tools that we use is the “true cost of water.” There’s often this thought that water Bill King
generally on the industrial side of things — more advanced technologies. is cheap, but when you start integrating everything that touches water into that calculation — (215) 675-1800 ext. 100
bking@vertmarkets.com
agriculture, of course; the energy industry, bringing water onto a site, the treatment cost, chemical costs, energy costs, pumping the water
with its intractable relationship to water; Can you describe some of those around your site, treating the water again at the tail end of your process — you add all that up MANAGING EDITOR
Karen White
and also the food and beverage industry. advanced technologies and how and you have a dollar amount per liter or gallon or whatever metric you want to use to know (814) 897-9000 ext. 316
Thankfully, there are leaders in these spaces they’re used to save water? the true cost of water. That equation changes quite significantly. It’s not a case of just taking kwhite@vertmarkets.com
who not only understand the need for sustainable Part of our journey to reduce water consumption your raw water costs and trying to work out return on investment based on that. You need to
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
water management — they pioneer it. David Grant, PepsiCo is the extent to which we can essentially recover figure out the true value chain costs based on your process. And there’s no reason why anyone William Pompilii
Foremost among them is David Grant, senior director process water — treat it to potable water standards and anywhere couldn’t be doing this. (215) 675-1800 ext. 145
bpompilii@vertmarkets.com
of global climate and water solutions at PepsiCo. Under bring it back into the process again. So, we’re now employing
his guidance, the company launched an ambitious water membrane bioreactors in 21 facilities across the world, allowing Even if you’re in a seemingly “water-rich” area? DIRECTOR OF
ONLINE DEVELOPMENT
conservation and efficiency program tied to specific targets and us to drive down freshwater consumption by about 70%. We can’t be complacent, right? I think there’s this risk that we sit back and think that water Art Glenn
deadlines — then outperformed their own aggressive goals. On the beverage side of the business, one of the largest areas scarcity is somebody else’s problem. If we take that attitude, we aren’t going to get anywhere. aglenn@vertmarkets.com
In this Q&A, David shares the keys to the program’s success, where water is consumed is in our water treatment room. As we And the risk is that we end up in a situation like Cape Town, South Africa, where they were
including the technologies, policies, and culture driving it, as well bring in water from a utility, a borewell, or wherever it’s coming getting close to a “Day Zero” scenario. You want to take action way before you can get close to
as his thoughts on the need for broader water stewardship and his from, we need to treat it to a quality that meets our high quality that point.
vision for advancing sustainability in the future. and safety standards. Typically, we do that by using reverse My recommendation would be that every company get a good idea of where they sit in terms
osmosis (RO), but with traditional RO, you get quite a high of water stress. There are so many global tools available right now to enable that. But even if
PepsiCo reached its 2025 water efficiency goal two reject rate — 30% to 40%. By including additional filtration you’re in a non-high-water-risk area, you still need to think about these things because non-high-
years early. First, what was the goal? after that process, either ultrafiltration or closed-circuit reverse risk areas become high-risk areas when water is used without any notion of stewardship.
PepsiCo has a very long history with water stewardship — it’s osmosis, we’re taking that reject and treating it again to extract
been integral to the company — and in 2021, when we launched additional freshwater volume from the reject stream, going from What’s next in PepsiCo’s sustainability journey?
our PepsiCo Positive (pep+) strategy, we continued to put a very roughly 60% efficiency to around 90%. That’s much less demand Well, we’ve got our 2030 goals that are just around the corner. For water use efficiency, we’re
strong emphasis on water. One of our goals was to improve that we’re putting on freshwater sources coming into our site. going to be pursuing “best in class” for our high-water-risk sites and “world class” for our non-
operational water use efficiency by 25% by 2025 for all our high- In our potato chip factories — and this was an innovation high-water-risk sites — recognition of the fact that it’s important to take action in non-high-
water-risk operations globally. that came out of our Indian business — they’ve figured out how water-risk areas, as well, to your last question.
to capture the moisture that typically gets evaporated when you We’re setting those goals not only for PepsiCo operations but for our third-party manufacturers
PepsiCo hit that goal in 2023, two years ahead of cook potatoes, which are 80% water. They got together, put in as well, increasing the scope quite significantly. We’ve set a watershed health goal of replenishing
schedule. How did you do it? a process, and now we’re capturing the condensation that comes more than 100% of the water that we use by 2030. The objective is to drive down water
If I start from the bottom up, one of our core programs is our out of the fryer, treating it, and then reusing it, saving up to 60 consumption as much as we can, and whatever amount we do use, we aim to replenish back into
resource conservation program called ReCon, which focuses on million liters of water per site per year. the watershed and then some.
people, process, and technology. The aim is to ensure that all The key to all of this as well is our ability to scale. We utilize From a PepsiCo point of view, we’re putting a really strong emphasis on recovery and reuse
of our systems are operating at their most efficient benchmarks, a number of mechanisms to scale technology — for example, within the system in an effort to extract the most value out of every single drop. And that’s going
before we even start looking at advanced technology. And we do we use platforms such as communities of practice and different to be key everywhere — not just at PepsiCo, but for any industry.
that through our people such as the plant operations employees, technical forums to showcase best practices and share those It’s incumbent upon all stakeholders, really. Whether you’re a business, household, government,
engineers, and corporate and sector sustainability teams, making technologies as much as possible with our facilities around the or NGO, there’s a need for us all to act in unison and collaborate to solve the water problem.
sure they have the right training and they’re on board with the globe so that we can have a collective, accelerated journey toward And we are making progress — we see it everywhere. But I would probably suggest that both
goal, because we need to win hearts and minds as well. We need water stewardship. the pace and scale need to increase, for everyone. I hope the actions we’re taking at PepsiCo
to make sure people understand it and our ambition around it. Finally, I’d like to mention digitization. In our beverage plants, can serve as inspiration, and we’re always looking to bring others
On the process side, it’s making sure we have the right tools in for example, we’ve digitized sub-metering to get very accurate along on our journey. n

Copyright © 2024, VertMarkets, Inc.

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Water Innovations 7
 FUNDING
Funding The Fight
Against PFAS And Lead Fund3 (DWSRF) offers another funding option for water utilities. processes through data-informed decision-making.

In Drinking Water
It creates a financial assistance program to help water utilities in all This proactive approach, combined with a pollution incident
50 states achieve federally regulated health protection objectives. response plan4, enables companies to address issues before they
This fund is particularly essential for water systems that need escalate, thus preventing PFAS contamination in water sources and
An overview of funding opportunities for water utilities to chemical contaminants and lead removal. Utilities can apply for improving productivity and efficiency.
their respective state’s dedicated revolving loan fund, which, when
meet new and upcoming compliance objectives, as well as
repaid, goes back into the revolving fund. Under the DWSRF, Adapting Predictive Maintenance Technologies
technology considerations to reduce further contamination. states offer various forms of assistance, including: Likewise, predictive maintenance solutions5 help manufacturers
• Loans maintain their machinery and equipment, lowering risks associated
By Katie Brenneman • Purchasing with malfunctions that may cause lead and PFAS contamination
• Refinancing incidents. Through Internet of Things (IoT) technology and
• Guaranteeing local debt sensors, manufacturing companies can monitor the condition
• Purchasing bond insurance of storage tanks, pipelines, and other critical infrastructure
States may offer loan repayment periods of up to 30 years elements. Predictive maintenance tech will alert manufacturers to
and interest rates ranging from zero to market rate; they can also infrastructural problems before they cause environmental damage.
provide customized loans to smaller or disadvantaged communities.
Utilities and municipalities should consult with their DWSRF Engaging With Stakeholders
administrator for details on applying and funding requirements. For water utilities, engaging all stakeholders in clean water systems

S
is critical in the fight against lead and PFAS contamination6. This
afe drinking water is a right for all individuals. • Enabling lead pipe replacement to remove and replace State Resources And Opportunities engagement should not focus solely on fundraising but should
Unfortunately, access to clean drinking water lead service pipes, upgrading water storage facilities, and In addition to federal aid, states offer programs specifically also address creating partnerships with environmental groups,
is challenging due to the presence of per- and improving water distribution; designed to assist water utilities in combating contaminants in community organizations, regulatory bodies, and the general
polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lead, which pose • Advocating for affordability and equity in water drinking water. These programs may include grants, loans, and public. Open collaboration and communication among these
significant health threats to the public. Also known as “forever infrastructure serving disadvantaged or rural communities other financial incentives. Utilities should collaborate with their parties can make the efforts to improve water quality and ensure
chemicals,” PFAS have a lasting environmental impact due to their struggling to afford water system improvements. respective state health departments and environmental protection community health more effective and far reaching.
persistent nature. Lead, a toxic metal, is found in water systems The law explicitly funds the remediation of pollutants such as agencies to explore other state-specific funding resources. Another
worldwide; immediate action is required to address and remove PFAS and lead from drinking water systems. The IIJA protects worthwhile funding opportunity is local governments, as some may Fighting For Clean Water For All
it. The financial challenges of upgrading infrastructure to meet public health and builds healthier communities by improving provide funding programs in localities where water quality issues Addressing the challenges posed by PFAS and lead contamination
regulations and eradicate these pollutants are substantial, and this water quality. are prevalent. in drinking water requires collective teamwork from various
obstacle often prevents governments, businesses, and organizations Municipalities and water utilities can apply for support for members, including water utilities, government entities, private
from cleaning up drinking water systems. water infrastructure remediation projects through the Clean Water Private Funding Options sector players, and local communities. By utilizing federal and
This article offers guidance to water utilities seeking support State Revolving Fund, FEMA Hazard Mitigation programs, or the Aside from federal and state assistance, water utilities can explore state resources, exploring additional funding opportunities, and
for the expenses associated with PFAS and lead removal, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. private funding options for water infrastructure remediation, adopting innovative technologies, water system manufacturers
including exploring grants, state assistance programs, and especially projects focusing on long-term efficacy and sustainability. can prevent water contamination and provide clean water
private funding opportunities. Furthermore, it will explore how Clean Water State Revolving Fund Environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs), for everyone. n
manufacturing companies can significantly reduce PFAS in Another funding option for water utilities is the Clean Water foundations, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs
waterbodies through advanced machine learning and predictive State Revolving Fund2 (CWSRF), a federal-state partnership offer grants for environmental protection projects. Another viable References:
maintenance technologies. offering low-cost financing to communities for the following water funding option is crowdfunding platforms that raise private funds 1. https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684
infrastructure projects: for specific community-driven projects related to water safety. 2. https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf
Federal Grants And Resources • Decentralized waste treatment systems 3. https://www.epa.gov/dwsrf/how-drinking-water-state-revolving-fund-works
A range of financial resources and grants are available to support • Green infrastructure Leveraging Technology: The Role Of Manufacturing 4. https://www.themanufacturer.com/articles/new-findings-reveal-the-role-
the remediation of water infrastructure and public drinking water • Municipal wastewater facilities Companies manufacturing-industry-may-be-playing-in-the-countrys-clean-water-
systems. Here are some options for water utilities and municipalities • Pollution control Manufacturers that produce or use PFAS contaminants that end up challenges/
to supplement support for cleaner water systems. • Stormwater runoff mitigation in drinking water can also play a vital role in minimizing the impact 5. https://www.bradyid.com/resources/predictive-maintenance
• Water reuse of these chemicals and becoming compliant with federal and state 6. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/03/14/
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act • Estuary protection regulations. By integrating technologies such as machine learning fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-takes-new-action-to-protect-
In 2021, Congress signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs • Decentralized wastewater treatment systems and predictive maintenance, these manufacturing companies can communities-from-pfas-pollution/
Act1 (IIJA) into law, allocating $50 billion to repair and clean water The CWSRF offers loans and loan guarantees, insurance, minimize accidental releases or leaks of PFAS into bodies of water.
infrastructures. In particular, the IIJA includes funds for: debt purchase or refinancing, SRF revenue debt guarantee, and About The Author
• Reauthorizing grant programs for the development of additional subsidizations. Utilities can contact their respective Utilizing Machine Learning For Predictive Analysis
green stormwater infrastructure programs and wastewater state’s CWSRF program for information on how to apply. Machine learning (ML) algorithms can analyze volumes of data
treatment systems; from manufacturing processes to identify operational inefficiencies
Katie Brenneman is a freelance writer and regular contributor
• Addressing aging infrastructure, including water recycling EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund or potential equipment failures that could result in chemical leaks. to Water Online, covering environmental, technology, and utility
and reuse, drought contingency plans, and water storage; Established in 1996, the U.S. EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Manufacturers using ML also learn to optimize their manufacturing management issues. She can be reached at katiebrennemanwrites@
gmail.com.

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Water Innovations 9
 STORMWATER

THE
ZEN
OF STORMWATER
systems that moved the water flow in the past will be seen with
an overlay of proposed changes, there often needs to be more
consideration of stormwater at this stage.

Permitting
At this stage, engineers submit plans for transportation, stormwater,
and other public improvements. Overland flow paths identify
for the runoff generated by their site to avoid passing on
costly problems to surrounding communities. Projects must look
beyond simply meeting regulations and provide practical steps for
incorporating runoff.
An increase in water flow presents a significant increase in
energy and strength. An inaccurate design of runoff mitigation
can push flooding downstream, tear up river banks, widen

MANAGEMENT AND
the existing natural water flows on the site. Next, an overlay waterways, undermine road crossings, degrade existing stormwater
of buildings, structures, and impervious areas is introduced. It infrastructure, and more.
becomes apparent how humans will alter and control the water Understanding and appreciating the natural flow paths and
flow with this new land use. land cover at the project site and beyond is essential to the best

LAND DEVELOPMENT
Stormwater management techniques for developed land can long-term stormwater development strategy. Respecting naturally
include enclosing overland flow paths, developing detention and established watersheds and water runoff patterns is an important
retention facilities, and identifying storage options, vaults, and part of taking a holistic approach toward creating an optimum
more. However, the focus is often on how the developed land will plan while mitigating unnecessary risk. There are opportunities
Plans for land development should include a plan for stormwater be used, not on how rainfall runoff can be generated and used by within the design development phase to integrate stormwater
the land. management strategies throughout the land parcel — look for
as well, incorporating both natural and engineered solutions. At this stage, the goal is to get the necessary permits so the options to infiltrate water, reduce impervious surfaces, integrate
project can get underway. diverse vegetation, and retain and reuse water.

Realizing Resilient Watersheds Engage Early Collaboration

Land development projects add impermeable roads, structures, There is value in understanding, accommodating, and leveraging
roofs, sidewalks, and parking lots. Land development also reduces the way water naturally flowed on a piece of land for centuries.
natural vegetation cover, including grasses, trees, and brush. In Expanding the land development team to include stormwater
By Brenda Macke, PE addition, development alters or eliminates the existing natural management from the start helps create the most effective
water flows and drives increased surface runoff volume. design plans.
As land development projects progress and address the challenge Stormwater should no longer be considered waste that must

E
of moving stormwater, it is time to consider what will be built be removed but a resource that can be incorporated into land
very natural piece of land has already mastered and Land development has many positive outcomes for societies and and what will be preserved — not just to keep moving and using development. In addition to focusing on pollutant reduction from
optimized the flow of its stormwater using resources such communities, and if we plan and develop carefully, it can have a stormwater on a site but also for the benefit of all downstream. runoff mitigation, stormwater management brings a range of tools
as trees, rocks, soil, and grasses. Although rainfall runoff positive impact on the natural processes and the land as well. What By adopting proactive design standards, weighing downstream and solutions that can enhance a development project by using
certainly occurs, much of the water is accommodated follows is a rundown of the process. risk, and embracing stormwater management early, land rainfall where it falls.
through infiltration, absorption, or evaporation. Mother Nature development projects can create success for all. Smarter stormwater designs explored and incorporated early
knows what she’s doing. Project Teams in a land project can introduce flexible solutions that meet
Land development projects alter the land’s associated natural The land development process typically involves a development Develop Design Standards regulations and provide benefits to the landowner and community.
water flows and the environments in which these flows discharge. team and a city and/or agency process team. Stormwater design standards consider the intensity-duration- Collaboration among planners, engineers, architects, landscape
Humans impact the land, and the land goes on to affect the water The development team focuses on surveying, engineering, and frequency (IDF) of a hypothetical rainfall event. This hypothetical professionals, and scientists can identify and present a range of
that, in turn, alters the land. Managing this cycle requires constant constructing the project for the landowner. City teams focus on rainfall event has only one peak — like a bell curve — and lasts a options that meet the intent of the regulations while building
reevaluation and vigilance to understand the impact and identify enforcing planning, public works, and public safety criteria that defined timeframe, such as 24 hours. Unfortunately, the commonly infrastructure that has multiple uses for the community.
the desired outcomes. must be met according to the community’s regulations. Both teams used IDF standards and existing hydrologic criteria are based on
steer development projects through ordinances, design criteria, data from the 1960s and focus on severe weather events rather than Conclusion
Land Development and permits. the changing weather patterns, such as back-to-back rain events Resilient and thoughtfully engineered watershed systems can be an
In urban environments, stormwater flows originate from snowmelt Every land development project has an established set of goals that can greatly increase runoff volume. Today, we have historical incredible resource. Land development can improve environmental
and rain and are designed to be channeled away over parking lots, and requirements. The developer and city process teams work rainfall data to show how rainstorms happen, including peak and infrastructure outcomes if we make the effort to learn more
concrete, and other impervious surfaces. Any land development toward meeting these defined expectations to meet the desired intensity and typical durations. innovative design standards, understand the risk to areas at the
project must manage the rainfall runoff and control the flow’s development and the corresponding regulations. Design standards often provide guidance that is too simplistic bottom of the watershed, and embrace stormwater knowledge early
impact downstream for both small and large storms. for land development projects, focusing only on rerouting runoff in each project. n
Whether land improvement is from a greenfield or redevelopment Planning Review and not incorporating all the impacts of weather events.
project, the land parcel is typically stripped before the building Land development projects often start with a planning review About The Author
phase begins. There are other construction options, but developers where a plat is overlaid on the site and changes to the land become Assess Downstream Risk
and contractors look for a clean slate where they can build most evident. This is the first glimpse of what the changes to the land Current design and planning guidance passes the risk of water
efficiently. The land will change, and although design criteria for would be. runoff and flooding downstream. As the land is changed
new projects strive to mimic the previous environment, it is often This review helps to identify existing flood plains, detention and the existing hyper-efficient natural water flow paths are Brenda Macke, PE, is a project manager at Burns & McDonnell,
not achievable. requirements, easements, and land access. While the natural disrupted, land development projects must take responsibility specialized in planning and design for resilient infrastructure
projects.

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Water Innovations 11
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 LEADAND COPPERRULE
Awaiting The Final Lead And
Copper Rule Improvements:
regulatory agency. The nationwide goal is that all lead service lines LSLR program. The utility is required to make a “reasonable
(and goosenecks) and GRRs can be replaced at a rate of about 10% effort” with four attempts using at least two different modes
per year for 10 years, resulting in total replacement. of communication to reach out to customers for a private
Another major proposed requirement within the LCRI is an side replacement. If a customer declines, the utility is not

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? improved tap sampling program. Under the LCR and LCRR,
systems are required to sample first draw (first liter) from home
taps when performing lead and copper sampling. However, the
permitted to make a partial replacement of their utility-
owned side of the service line. The only exception to this is
when there’s an emergency or during planned infrastructure
LCRI intends to require systems to collect first- and fifth-liter work (such as water main replacement).
samples for lead P90 levels. The higher result from the
two samples will be used for compliance purposes, 3. Determine your funding strategy.
From “Revisions” to “Improvements,” the EPA is making further and on top of that the LCRI is calling for a According to a recent statement from the
reduced lead action level from 15 ppb to 10 American Water Works Association, it’s
changes to the Lead and Copper Rule to keep drinking water ppb. We recommend that utilities begin estimated that replacement of all lead
systems working toward the ultimate goal. piloting this process so they can grasp service lines in the U.S. could top $90
an idea of what their new P90 levels billion. The EPA has designated $15
will be when compliance begins in billion from 2022-2026 ($3 billion
2027. If there is a concern that per year for five years) for lead
your utility will be near the new 10 service line inventory development
ppb threshold, you have time now and lead or GRR service line
to implement corrosion control replacements. Each state will have
measures, where applicable. programs to administer the money,
By Brendan O’Brien Additional public outreach and and each state gets to decide how
education requirements will also it is administered. We recommend

O
come into play under LCRI. Public utilities research funding options as
ver the past few years, community and public water with a lead, galvanized requiring replacement (GRR), or outreach materials will be required early as possible, and if necessary, partner
systems have been focused on meeting the October lead status unknown service line. Delivery must be by mail for daily typical operations, such as with a consultant that can help.
2024 deadline of building their service line inventories or by another state-approved method. potholing activities, meter replacements, and
as directed by the U.S. EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule • Notify all customers within 24 hours following a lead action corporation/curb stop or valve turning. Also 4. Establish new sampling programs.
Revisions (LCRR). level exceedance (15 parts per billion). included is a proposed procedure for sampling results, Launching a sampling pilot program will be crucial
But late last November, the EPA’s highly anticipated Lead and which should be postmarked within three calendar days, and during this stage to ensure future compliance when the
Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) was released in draft form. Once water systems satisfy the LCRR requirements this October, required information documents related to replacements. Public action level is lowered to 10 ppb. If there is a lead
Utilities, agencies, and consultants had until February 5, 2024, it will be time to plan for the next stage as LCRI comes into play. outreach will also be required for planned or emergency work, action level exceedance, the public must be notified
to submit comments, and the EPA Office of Water is now sifting However, the timing of the final LCRI is still unknown. meter replacement, and more. within 24 hours (beginning October 16, 2024, at 15
through those comments and working to release the final LCRI. The various compliance deadlines in the proposed LCRI stretch We encourage utilities and public water systems to keep costs ppb). Additionally, utilities that are prepared can begin
So now what happens, and how can water utilities prepare for out anywhere from three to 10 years after the final rule goes into and planning for public outreach in mind as they develop their performing sampling at schools and registered childcares
the final LCRI? effect. One of the key pieces to the LCRI is that it will require every compliance plans. prior to 2027. Consider checking with your state to learn
There are many important details that answer this question, but community water system to submit a baseline inventory within whether school programs in your service area have utilized
to summarize, LCRR will roll into the LCRI — the next stage of three years after the final rule becomes effective (expected late How To Prepare the “Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation”
the process in the Lead and Copper Rule regulatory journey. While 2027), in addition to the service line inventory due this October While it may feel like 2027 (and beyond) is a long time from now, (WIIN) 2107 grant program. The EPA awarded $58
we understand changes could still be made to LCRI as the EPA under LCRR. it’s best for public water systems to remain proactive. So, what can million in WIIN grant funding for FY 2022 and FY 2023.
reviews public comments, we know that additional requirements The baseline inventory must include the material of the you do to prepare for the changes that LCRI will likely bring?
are coming and that all community and public water systems will goosenecks or connectors that make up each service line. We advise As LCRI sets additional expectations, many public water
need to comply. water systems to begin capturing gooseneck material right away 1. Reduce unknowns. systems recognize the major undertaking ahead. But with proper
during records review and any field work tasks as they build their One of the keys to timely, successful service line replacement preparation, smart funding strategies, and ongoing planning, we
What To Know initial inventory. In addition, this allows utilities to keep tackling and compliance with LCRI is to reduce “unknowns.” Any are confident water systems of all sizes across the U.S. will be able
Three components in the LCRR will take effect October 16, 2024. the “lead status unknowns” that end up being submitted within unknowns remaining by the time of submission of the to comply successfully. n
Those are as follows: the initial inventory. baseline inventory will be included in your replacement
Why is this important? Well, the baseline inventory will target (10% per year). Unknowns will be required to be
• Submit an initial service line inventory to your state determine the replacement rate, in which systems will have to replaced, so the more data available for a system, the more About The Author
regulatory agency. The inventory must be available publicly. remove all lead, GRRs, and unknowns from their systems between accurate and cost-effective the LSLR plan can be. Brendan O’Brien, PE, is a project manager at Stantec with 10 years
For water systems serving more than 50,000 people, the 2027 and 2037. of engineering experience in the delivery of water, wastewater,
and stormwater distribution and conveyance system design, and
inventory must be provided online. The LCRI intends to push the lead service line replacement 2. Discontinue partial replacements.
construction projects. O’Brien leads Stantec’s Lead and Copper
• Within 30 days after submission, provide notification to (LSLR) plan deadline to late 2027. However, some states may still Once the LCRI compliance date goes into effect, partial Rule Revisions (LCRR) Growth Initiative team and is currently
people served by the water system at the service connections require it to be submitted in 2024 — so check with your state service line replacements will no longer be allowed under a managing several LCRR inventory projects for clients small and large
nationwide.

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 MONITORING&MEASUREMENT

How Monitoring Treatment Processes

Drives Efficiency And Confidence
action is using TOC levels in the effluent to prompt a change in protection. TOC analysis guides seasonal operations and delivers
operations. When TOC increases during runoff, that signals the confidence in coagulant dosing decisions at this plant.
plant to reduce production and rely on groundwater sources.
Data were collected over the course of several years using raw Conclusion
and finished water quality. The data were used to optimize primary Drinking water plants must meet local and federal regulatory
coagulant dose and identify correlations that would help predict requirements, and they must now do so with emerging contaminants
performance. Results indicated a strong linear correlation between and variable source water quality requirements. Rivers, lakes, and
raw TOC and coagulant requirements. Weaker correlations were aquifers used to be more predictable, but due to storm events
determined between alkalinity and turbidity with coagulant. Later and water scarcity, it is now more challenging for municipal
studies improved the regression equations to solely relate dosage to treatment plants to achieve compliance. Ultimately, water quality
incoming TOC. The plant still uses the regression that associates monitoring can help utilities understand the changes in source
TOC, turbidity, and alkalinity. The variability with turbidity and water quality and what treatments are needed to adjust to the
alkalinity assists with coagulant dose adjustments during rapidly changes. The most useful data are often obtained when operators
changing water quality events like rapid snowmelt and rainstorms. can use instrumentation data on water quality to not only optimize
While the plant is not equipped for 100% automation, these water treatment and save costs but also to have confidence that they are
quality data allow operators to adjust using data-driven decisions. making profitable decisions and staying in compliance. n
Intakes are located on a river, so raw water quality can change
drastically from hour to hour and requires multiple coagulant dose About The Author
Amanda Tyndall is the vertical market manager for Industrial &
changes each day. Using raw TOC, alkalinity, and turbidity, the environmental markets at Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions,
drinking water facility has been able to accurately adjust chemical focusing on the Sievers product line of analytical instruments. With
doses for late summer turbidity spikes caused by rainstorms, as well 10 years’ experience in the water industry, Amanda and her team
partner with industries and municipalities to solve water quality
as seasonal TOC and alkalinity changes from mountain runoff. challenges through instrumentation solutions for ultrapure water
Using data to drive decisions and confirm compliance enables more to wastewater. Her background is in chemical engineering, with a
bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and a master’s degree
efficient treatment and ultimately better human and environmental from the University of Cambridge.

By Amanda Tyndall

C
limate change, consumer confidence, and emerging its operators to feel confident to adjust treatment using data-driven
contaminants add to the challenges of water treatment. decisions. This would lead to more efficient treatment and better
Rising costs of improved treatment, including both environmental protection.
equipment and chemicals, make it even more important With large seasonal swings in temperature, flows, and water
for plants to operate efficiently. How do you know if treatment is quality, the facility requires accurate data to drive decision-making.
effective or when is best to replace or maintain equipment? New Using water quality data from parameters such as alkalinity, total
advancements in sensors, instrumentation, and digital enablement organic carbon (TOC), and turbidity, the facility can ensure
are providing more data. There are countless benefits of more data effluent compliance and confidence in processes. For example,
for better asset management, leak detection, and treatment control. when spring runoff starts, turbidity tends to spike, then return
Additionally, artificial intelligence is emerging with hopes of not to base levels, but TOC spikes and remains high. At these points,
only alerting but also predicting performance. Yet, even with the the plant needs to decide whether to use its surface water or
potential for more data, faster data, and predictive data, it remains groundwater wells. By using TOC data, this decision is made
true that the best data are data that bring confidence in treatment quickly and with confidence. This confidence from the operators
and compliance. also ensures consumer confidence by providing compliant and
quality water year-round, even in the case of sudden changes in
Data-Driven Results source water from storms or seasonal changes.
A water utility in the Western U.S. treats groundwater and surface Treatment includes the use of a variety of chemicals at each
water across three facilities. All three facilities have highly variable step of the process for pre-oxidation and coagulation, as well as
seasonal demands and limited operational space, posing challenges a coagulant aid and polymer for prefiltration. These treatment
related to treatment decisions across seasons or following events that steps maintain turbidity requirements per the plant’s original
impact water quality. One out of the three plants is conventional, design, while the addition of TOC analysis confirms disinfectant/
using coagulation and filtration. It has a throughput capacity of disinfection byproduct rules (DBPRs) compliance. In the past, the
10 million gallons per day (MGD), with average summer flows of plant conducted various jar tests to determine proper coagulant
5 MGD and 2.5 MGD in the winter. To better understand and dosing. This placed extra pressure on operators and did not provide
optimize coagulant dosing, the facility decided to investigate how real-time information on raw or finished water quality. Moving
water quality data could be used to generate predictive algorithms to online analysis provided real-time data to immediately react to
for better control and deeper insights. Ultimately, the plant wanted changes in source water and treatment performance. One example

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 WORKFORCEMANAGEMENT

FLOWING FORWARD:
How Technology Is A Necessity For Solving these systems. That’s why the devices that workers use must meet

The Water Sector’s Growing Challenges Water treatment plants and strict security standards and have required checks to ensure they
incorporate the latest security measures.
pumping stations in remote Devices with built-in security features like fingerprint scanning
Modern problems for water utilities, including limited workforce and multi-factor authentication can help reduce potential risks.
and aging infrastructure, require modern tools for overcoming them.
areas often have unstable By integrating these features, the need for employees to repeatedly
connectivity, making data input lengthy passwords is eliminated, ultimately reducing
downtime and enhancing overall efficiency. These security
collection and analysis measures enable workers and companies to prioritize their core

difficult to do on the job. mission: maintaining the security and cleanliness of water for
their communities.

Facilitating A True Partnership

any environment, workers can streamline record-keeping, ensuring Fostering a true partnership between utility companies and
data reliability and accuracy. Ultimately, this integration empowers technology providers is essential for water utility operations. Utility
workers to accomplish more in less time, enhancing overall companies must carefully select a technology partner capable of
operational effectiveness and service quality, while speeding up the delivering comprehensive services and support, from the initial
time it takes to analyze and act on data across the organization. deployment through the entire lifespan of its devices. Rugged
devices are designed to be long-lasting and high-performance,
Providing Reliable Connectivity Outside Of The Office staying in rotation for upwards of five to seven years, which helps
Water treatment plants and pumping stations in remote areas often to reduce e-waste. Consumer devices have a shorter lifespan and
have unstable connectivity, making data collection and analysis therefore are more frequently outdated and recycled. And, given
difficult to do on the job. If a technician is conducting a routine the constraints of limited IT resources, partnership is key to
maintenance check on a pipeline and identifies a series of leaks, effectively deploying and managing advanced technology.
they must be able to solve the problem quickly by communicating Experienced technology partners offer a range of services tailored
details in real-time such as the precise location, size, and severity. to the specific needs of utility companies. Whether it’s proving an
This is a critical element of both short-term repairs and longer- extension of existing IT teams, assisting with software installation,
term prioritization of fixing aging infrastructure. or offering expertise in evaluating various deployment models to
Utility workers must be equipped with devices that have help lower costs, technology partners play an important role in
multiple connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, 4G LTE, 5G, and driving efficiency and innovation across water utility companies.
Bluetooth. These ensure reliability, even in areas where signals As the U.S. continues to digitize, utility and technology
may be obstructed by large machinery like water pumps and companies must work together to equip frontline workers with
sedimentation tanks. Access to real-time intelligence or the ability the devices they need. By prioritizing workers’ needs, utility and
to quickly access maps, blueprints, manuals, and more enables technology companies can work together to navigate the evolving
By Chad Hall workers to make informed decisions onsite, preventing minor landscape efficiently, productively, and with confidence. n
issues from escalating into significant problems.
Truly reliable connectivity can also help optimize water References:

A
technicians’ routes and schedules. For instance, if a worker is 1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/water-and-wastewater-treatment-plant-
ccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Streamlining Operations And Improving Record- conducting routine maintenance near a recently detected leak, and-system-operators.htm#tab-6
employment of water and wastewater treatment plant Keeping utilities can look at the big picture and send immediate notifications, 2. https://www.mod-eng.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-americas-aging-
and system operators is projected to decline 6% from One significant area where digitalization makes a difference directing the closest worker to the leak. This approach minimizes water-infrastructure-crisis/
2022 to 20321. Meanwhile, the deterioration of water is in streamlining operations and improving record-keeping. response times and maximizes resource utilization, giving teams
infrastructure adds to the urgency of finding effective solutions, Historically, water utility workers used paper-based record systems heightened visibility into where staff, materials, and machinery are
especially as 6 billion gallons of treated water are estimated to be to document meter readings and maintenance activities. However, in the field.
lost every day in the U.S. due to leaks, with approximately 240,000 this method posed challenges because the data could be misplaced
water main breaks occurring annually2. or fall subject to a variety of elements impacting readability and Maintaining Security On The Go
To tackle these two pressing challenges and empower a mission- accuracy, such as spills and rips. This method also caused delays in Ensuring security while on the move is crucial as water utilities
critical workforce, water utilities are increasingly turning to inputting information into computer systems, often located at an become more interconnected. Water is a vital resource, and its
digitalization. By harnessing the power of digital technologies, office miles away. infrastructure is of critical importance. Water and wastewater About The Author
utility companies can enhance operational efficiency and resilience. To address these inefficiencies, water utility companies are now systems are susceptible to cyber threats, emphasizing the
From real-time record-keeping to reliable connectivity and security integrating rugged mobile technology into their daily routines. importance of devices that facilitate the implementation and
Chad Hall serves as executive business development manager
protocols, the adoption of digital solutions — particularly rugged This advancement allows water technicians to digitize and auditing of security best practices. These devices must enable
at Panasonic Connect, overseeing the development of rugged
mobile solutions — can serve as a valuable tool for workers on the automate previously manual tasks, such as meter readings and swift identification of intrusions and provide alerts to experts mobile solutions to support the utilities sector. He obtained his
front lines grappling with these challenges. asset inspections. Equipped with devices designed to withstand capable of mitigating potential attacks to maintain the resilience of bachelor’s degree in geography and master’s degree in geographic
information science and cartography from Texas State University.

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 WATERSCARCITY

foggy coastlines of the Pacific Northwest, and parts of California significant water volumes. Funding uncertainties and often a lack
present ideal settings for fog harvesting projects. of support from local governments exacerbate these complexities,

Aqua From The Air:

Several research initiatives and pilot programs are exploring which can stall or halt fog water collection5 projects.
the viability and efficiency of fog harvesting as a sustainable However, recent technological advancements and engineering
water source. These projects aim to refine collection technology solutions are beginning to overcome these hurdles. Innovations
and methods and make it a more accessible and like improved net materials and the development

The Promise Of Fog Harvesting practical water source for communities in

these regions.
of scalable, modular systems make fog
harvesting feasible and efficient.

For Clean Water Access

Additionally, integrating smart
Environmental And technology for monitoring and
Economic Benefits optimizing fog collection in
Fog harvesting offers real time offers promise for
The answer to water scarcity could be right in front of us — and above and all around — significant environmental enhancing the viability and
if the technology of drawing water from the atmosphere can be made practical. advantages, marking a effectiveness of harvesting
pivotal shift toward systems. They ensure they
sustainable water can become a reliable,
By Ellie Gabel management with a sustainable water
minimal ecological resource management
footprint. For example, component.
capturing atmospheric
water reduces reliance Exploring
on groundwater and Sustainable Water
surface sources. It Solutions
alleviates pressure on these Industry professionals

F
increasingly scarce resources. must explore and champion
og harvesting represents an innovative approach to water they have three common forms2: perforated metal, expanded Moreover, applying fog fog harvesting and other
collection. It harnesses the moisture in fog through metal, and wire mesh. Each type offers unique benefits in terms water for irrigation enhances sustainable water technologies
specialized nets or collectors to provide a sustainable of durability, filtration capabilities, and water collection efficiency. saplings’ growth rates and to recognize their potential to
source of clean water. This method is gaining traction Together, these materials and designs form the backbone of fog survivability4 in reforestation address scarcity and contribute to
among industry professionals in the U.S. who are interested in harvesting technology, promising a sustainable water source for projects, which contributes to ecological a sustainable future. Advocating these
exploring novel and eco-friendly solutions to meet the country’s those in dire need. restoration and carbon sequestration efforts. innovative solutions can lead the way in
growing water demands. From an economic perspective, water utilities transforming water resource management and
As concerns over water scarcity intensify, the push toward stand to gain through cost savings and reduced dependence ensuring a resilient supply for generations to come. n
adopting such cutting-edge technologies reflects a broader on traditional, often expensive water sources. Implementing fog
shift to more sustainable and efficient water management From an economic harvesting technology can lead to a more diversified and resilient References:
practices nationwide.
perspective, water utilities water supply system. It buffers against drought and scarcity while
promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
1.
2.
https://www.unicef.org/wash/water-scarcity
https://www.hendrickcorp.com/blog/perforated-metal-vs-wire-mesh-and-
The Science Of Fog Harvesting stand to gain through expanded-metal/
About 4 billion people globally1 experience severe water shortages
for at least one month every year. This critical situation underscores cost savings and reduced Integrating Fog Harvesting Into Water Management
Strategies
3. https://www.statista.com/statistics/203932/highest-points-in-the-united-
states-by-state/
the urgent need for innovative solutions like fog harvesting, which dependence on traditional, Professionals can integrate fog harvesting into broad water resource 4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257479318_Fog_water_as_an_
offers a lifeline by capturing atmospheric water. management and sustainability strategies by conducting feasibility
often expensive water
alternative_and_sustainable_water_resource
Fog harvesting operates on a simple yet effective principle: studies in regions with high fog occurrence. This approach assesses 5. h t t p s : / / w w w. f r o n t i e r s i n . o r g / j o u r n a l s / w a t e r / a r t i c l e s / 1 0 . 3 3 8 9 /
using specialized nets or collectors to trap and condense fog
droplets, which are collected and stored. This technology thrives
sources. the potential yield and impact on local water supplies.
Moreover, encouraging collaboration among government
frwa.2021.675269/full

in areas with frequent fog and minimal rainfall, requiring specific agencies, research institutions, and private sector partners
atmospheric conditions — cool temperatures and high humidity is crucial in advancing fog harvesting technologies. Such
— to function optimally. Potential In The U.S. partnerships can facilitate knowledge sharing, technical
The effectiveness of fog harvesting systems largely depends The most promising U.S. regions for fog harvesting are coastal expertise, and funding, driving innovation in fog collection About The Author
on the materials and designs of the nets. They’re typically made areas and high-altitude locations, where the specific conditions for methods and materials.
of polyethylene or nylon for their durability and hydrophobic collection are prevalent. The highest elevation in the country is
properties. Designs vary from simple flat nets to more complex Denali, AK, soaring over 20,310 feet3 above sea level. Technical Challenges And Innovation
structures optimized for maximum efficiency. Meanwhile, Mount Whitney in California is the highest point This technology faces technical challenges, including varying fog Ellie Gabel is a science writer specializing in environmental science
Moreover, metals are crucial in enhancing these systems, and in the contiguous U.S., reaching over 14,400 feet. These areas, the densities and the necessity for expansive collection areas to yield and innovative technologies. She can be reached at
ellie@revolutionized.com.

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 Ultrapen PTBT Series
Compatible with Android
and iOS Devices.

www.myronl.com
760-438-2021