keystone tap magazinethe keystone tap prwa pennsylvania rural water association annual conference...

SfPUH9 1999

AP~~ruraJ

The Keystone Tap PRWA

Pennsylvania Rural Water Association Annual Conference Mark your calendar now for:

March 24 - 25 - 26, 1999 Penn Stater Conference Center & Hotel

State College, PA

This year's PRWA Conference will feature many exciting training seminars and activities including;

• Hands-on Computer and Internet Training •Consumer Confidence Report Workshop • Numerous Training Seminars • DEP Regional Workshops • Water Plant Tour • Large Exhibit Area • OVER $4500 in Cash Prizes • "Pride of Pennsylvania" Water Tasting Contest • The "famous" One-Pound Pork Chop Banquet Dinner

Wellhead I Watershed Protection Committees 2nd Annual PA DEP I PRWA

Highlights:

Source Water Protection Workshop/Conference

To be held in conjunction with the PA Rural Water Annual Conference

March 24 · 25 · 26, 1999

Wednesday March 24, 1999 - Surface Water Sessions • PA DEP Source Water Assessment Program updates • Implementing a Watershed Management Plan • Watershed Susceptibility 0 & A • Reservoir I Impoundment Management

Thursday March 25, 1999 - Groundwater Source • PA DEP Groundwater Sessions • Effective Public Education • Zoning I Ordinance issues • GIS & Wellhead Protection

Plan on sending a Committee member to one or both days.

Please note, you will need to register separately for these two workshops, please specify if you will be attending the __ Surface Water Workshop/Conference

__ Groundwater Workshop/Conference __ or Both

For special registration please call 1-800-653-PRWA.

S~ 1999

PRWA

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BOB BLOUGH President

Jenner Area Joint Sewer Authority

MARTIN BECK Vice President

Boro of Wellsboro, PA

DAVE QUINN Secretory

Wllite Haven Municipal Authority

JOHN MCCREADY Treasurer

WiiHamstown Boro Municipal Authority

GUY SHAFFER Assistolll Sec. - Treas.

Walker 1\vp. Water

DIRK GRISSINGER Director

Ferguson Twp. Authority

BLAINE RHODES Director

Venango Water Co.

TERESA RISSMILLER NRWA Director

Mt. Joy Twp. Authority

STAFF

STEPHEN M. KRCHNAVY Execmive Director

DICK EYLER Chief Financial Officer

KATHY M. FYE Office Manager

BOB DECKER l*•stewater Training Technician

MIKE DILL Program Specialist

CHUCK GROFF Wastewater Technician

JOEL JORDAN Groundwater Technician

JANE SMITH-DECKER Groundwmer Technician

ROGER MILLIRON Water Tcclmicinn

J UDY MUEHL Water Develnpmem Coordinator

CHRIS SHUTT Wmer Conservmion Teclmiciml

DON MUIR Water Conservation Technician

DONNA MILLER Membership Services

JOHN HOOD Education Director

KATHY RUTHERFORD Administmtive Services

SUSAN IVIAURER Staff S11pport Services

Cover Photo: Presque Isle State Park, Weiland Scenic Photographer Teey Way. Commonwealth Media Services

S~ /999

The Keystone Tap

Pen11sylvania Rum/Water Association would like to invite you /{) prepate a short article about y(mr water/ wastewater system or other topics wbicb would be of interest to our readers. We also welcome articks from our Associate Members. Sbare your news with us.

Please send yow· articles witb photograpbs, if avaiklble, to : PRim, 1381Vest Bishop Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823, Tel ephoue: 814-353-9302 • Fax: 814-353-9341 • email: [email protected]

Feature Articles: PRWA District Meeting Announcement 2 DEP Operator Certification Announcement 3 Reed Beds: Different Way to Treat Biosolids 4 Country Boy Chuck 6 Cook College Winter Class Schedule 7 County by County ... Line by Line 8 Across the Great Divide . . . Looking up Your Source 13 Wel l on Your Customer's Way to Clean Water 15 What's On Tap 19 Here & THERE and THEN 20 Consumer Confidence Report Announcement 2 1 Groundwater Protection from PA to Turkmenistan 22 Featured Wastewater System: Freedom Twp. Water & Sewer Auth. 24 Donohoe Center Hosts Wastewater Downlink 25 PRWA Tribute to Excellence - Call for Entries 26 PRWAAnnual Conference - Highlights from 1998 27 Consider the Source 32 Featured Water System: Roaring Creek Water Co. 34 From Our Point of View 36 The Wet Thumb 37 ltchee & Scratchie 38 Grit Collections 41 GIS and Wellhead Protection 42 PRWA Member Honored at Drexel Univ. 47 PRWA System Members 48 Patrons 51 Associate Members 52 One More Thing 55 Membership Application 56

Pennsylvania Rural Water Advertising Rates The Official Publication of the Pennsylvania Rural Water Association is published quarterly for distribution to representatives of rural and municipal water and wastewater utilities, patron and associate members, legislative delegation, other related agencies, other indusuy associations and friends of PRWA. Articles and photographs are encouraged. Submissions and advertising should be directed: to PRWA, 138 W. Bishop St., BeliefMte, PA 16823, Phone: (800) 653-PRWA,Jax: (814) 353-9341, or email: [email protected].

Si<e Pull Page Half Page Quarter Page Business Card

Per Issue $250.00

150.00 120.00 100.00

Member 4 issues $900.00 540.00 430.00 360.00

Full Pag~-Color (lnsid~ Front or Back Cover) 600.00 2200.00

l/2 Page-Color (Outside Back Cover) 500.00 1800.00

Non-Member Per Issue $450.00

350.00 320.00 300.00

4 Issues $1100.00

740.00 630.00 560.00

I

2

The Keystone Tap

~rural~

Wrz will bcz holding Mczmbczrship mczcztings around thrz stotcz in czoch of thrz i'RWfi Districts. This will brz your opportunity to hrzor what's nrzw for PRWfi, givrz input to thrz Boord mrzmbrzr for your district. ond rznjoy ncztworking with othrzr systrzm mrzmbrzrs from within your district. Watch for moN dfltoils ond furthczr dotczs in upcoming issurzs of thcz K~.sUtte- "ktp. Thcz following dotczs hovfl brzrzn srzt:

District 1 (Southeast Jtegion) - )uly 22nd @ Forest Park Water Treatment Plant in Montgomery County

·District 2 (lfortheast Region) - Date and location to be announced

·District 3 (Southcentral Region) - August 19th In MiUersburg

·District 4 (northcentral Region) - August 12th - location to be announced

·District 5 (Southwest Region) - August 14th - location to be announced

·District 6 (lforthwest Region) - )one 10th@ the Reno Social "all

PRWA

138 West Bishop Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823 (814) 353-9302/ Fax (814)353-9341/ Email: [email protected]

SfvWt9 1999

PRWA

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

The Keystone Tap

State Board for Certification of Sewage Treatment Plant and Waterworks Operators 1999 Examination Announcement

Examination Dates:

Apri/24, 1999 -Applications must be received, complete and correct, no later than February 8, 1999.

November 6, 1999- Applications must be received, complete and correct, no later than August 23, 1999.

Applications may be obtained from and must be returned to the Department of Environmental Protection, Certification and Licensing, P.O. Box 8454, 400 Market Street, 2nd Floor, Rachel Carson State Office Building, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8454, telephone: (717) 787-5236, by the established cutoff dates stated above (not postmarked). Information regarding the certification examination can be obtained by contacting this same address and telephone number.

Copies of course completion certificates and transctipts must accompany the application to be counted toward total experience.

Laboratory experience is acceptable as operating experience when accomplished in conjunction with plant operation and the applicant can adequately demonstrate that interpretation and application of laboratory data is used by the applicant in order to control plant processes.

Applicants requesting two examinations (water and sewage) must be examined in the Harrisburg area.

Qualified applicants will receive a "Letter of Notification" approximately three weeks prior to the examination . This letter must be presented at the examination center for admission to the examination.

All applicants will be notified of examination results within 75 days after the examination date.

Information on training courses can be obtained by contacting the Department of Environmental Protection, Technical Training, P.O. Box 8467, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-8467, telephone (717) 787-1458.

The sewage and water treatment plant operator examination consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. A formula conversion table is provided with the examination package at the test site.

If you are a person with a disability and require accommodation to take the sewage treatment plant or waterworks operator exam, before the examination cutoff date, please contact the board at (717) 787-5236 or through PA AT&T Relay Services at 1-800-654-5984 (TDD) to discuss how the board may accommodate your needs.

Revised 8/98

SfvUH9 1999

4


Reed Beds: A Different Way to Treat Biosolids

W.out a doubt, disposing of biosolids can be one of the most expensive parts of operating a wastewater treatment system. However, the Pine River Area Sanitary District (PRASD) in Minnesota has found a biosolid treatment technique that makes disposal almost obsolete.

This method, recognized as an innovative and alternative treatment method by the U .S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), uses common reeds to break down biosolids. It was originally developed by the Max-Planck Institute of West Germany and the Netherlands approximately 30 years ago.

When reed beds came to the attention of PRASD, the district was under Minnesota Pollution Control Agency orders to upgrade its system and needed to improve its biosolids handling techniques. The district serves approximately 1,145 customers and an additional 88 commercial accounts.

"With the original system, the biosolids from the clarifier had to be pumped into holding tanks, which provided only 60 days of detention time before disposal," noted Nick Pond, project manager with Professional Services Group, the firm hired by the district to provide operation, maintenance, and management services. Among the problems with this system, however, was that the aerated holding tanks did not provide effective treatment.

"There was a severe odor problem, which everyone in the community was well aware of," Pond said. "The system's operator attempted to control the problem by manually adding lime, which was mixed in a 55-gallon barrel and was very labor intensive."

Pond also explained that the holding tanks were open at the top and would freeze over during winter. Plant staff installed plywood covers and heat lamps to reduce the freezing problem. However, adequate storage was another concern, and hauling biosolids during winter was also necessary. The truck used to haul the biosolids was a 1962 tanker truck, which was in poor condition.

Last year, PRASD land applied 930 tons of biosolids. That not only meant getting them ready

by Kathy Jesperson NSFC Staf!Writer

for disposal, but also finding landowners willing to have biosolids spread over their fields - and an investment of approximately $1,800, which was paid to the landowners for use of their 1and.

Saves Money The distric t investigated upgrading its

conventional system and continuing to land apply the biosolids. However, by installing the reed beds, PRASD will save a total of $5,855 per year in operational costs related to land application, including hauling, labor, lime appli cation, and truck fuel and maintenance.

"Besides virtually eliminating those costs, we've also saved $367,000 in construction costs compared to a conventional system," said Pond. "Also, we no longer have to add lime to the biosolids for land

section of a reed bed showing Phn11mll1tg reeds (A), stored sludge (B), coarse sand (C), and gravel and underdrains (D).

application, which saves in labor." "Now all we have to do is turn a valve and

pump the biosolids into the reed beds," he continued, "The whole process is simpler and less expensive."

System Explained Pond said that the reed bed system uses an

aerobic digester to reduce the volume of the biosolids and stabilize them." It takes about 45 to 60 days for there to be enough biosolids jn the digester to empty into the reed beds," he said.

He further explained that the system consists of four reed beds. Each one is a 40 -foot by 105 -

Sft/tUt9 1999

PRWA

foot containment that is open to the atmosphere. "There's a PVC liner covered with gravel and a l.ayer of sand on top of that. The reeds, which can get to about 10 to 12 feet high, grow in the sand. The solids are trapped on top of the sand. Once the biosolids are emptied into the beds, there's about 7 to 10 years of long-term storage and treatment in the beds." The total loading capacity is 2,500 tons per year.

According to Scott Davis, a consulting engineer with Sigmatron Corporation, one of the most distinctive characteristics of the reeds is their root system. "The predominant genus that we use for these systems is Phragmites australis, which is the common reed that is found throughout NotthAmerica."

"The root systems of the reeds are tubular and resemble bamboo," he explained. "The roots are often refetTed to as rhizomes, and the reeds have the ability to transfer oxygen to their root system while being submerged in water at depths up to six feet."

"The reeds also have nodes in their stems for secondary root growth," he continued. "The roots grow out sideways and develop a very thick mass. They don't penetrate down through the stones, so drainage is very good for water coming off the biosolids. Also, the plants have a voracious demand for water."

Reeds are a type of wetland plant that use a large amount of water in their growing cycle, noted a Water Environment Federation 1992 conference report, Sludge Dewatering and Disposal Utilizing the Reed System. Water taken up into the root system transpires through the leaves into the atmosphere, aiding in the dewatering of the biosolids. The root system also keeps channels open through the sand and gravel layers, which allows gravity drainage of the beds.

According to Davis, another benefit is that numerous plants can branch off one rhizome. These new plants then grow vertically through the biosolids. The plants deliver oxygen to the roots, creating a rich bacterial microflora.

"The root system provides attachment sites for beneficial bacteria and microorganisms that feed on the volatile solids," Davis said. "This provides a continuous degradation of the solids, and over extensive periods (some reed bed facilities have been in operation for 10 years), volatile solids have been reduced by 80 percent. In addition to the dewatering

Sfvtbt9 1999

The Keystone Tal!_

of the biosolids, the bio-degradation results in further solids reduction."

Is it a Constructed Wetland? Davis noted that the principle difference

between a constructed wetland and a reed bed is that constructed wetlands usually refer to systems that are constructed to treat wastewater or effluent, and reed beds generally refer to a vegetative bed designed to treat biosolids.

"The majority of constructed wetland systems designed to treat effluent either maintain a continuous flow of effluent below the surface of the media - which are often referred to as a vegetative submerged bed - or in some cases maintain effluent above the surface -which are often referred to as free water systems," he said.

How big do they need to be? Davis explained that area requirements for a

reed bed facility will depend on climatic conditions, influent characteristics that may vary, as well as the types of treatment units and biosolids processing that are used. Additionally, wastewater flows, infiltration, and peak flows for each facility must be considered.

For example, noted Davis, a facili ty that has a design wastewater flow of 1.5 million gallons per day may produce approximately 8,000 to 10,000 tons of biosolids per year. A facility of this size would require slightly more than one acre of reed beds to treat the total biosolids production.

"Reed beds are not always more economical than land application of biosolids," he explained. "Land application may be the best choice in cases where land is readily available, in close proximity to the treatment facilities, and where climatic conditions are favorable for application of biosolids all year."

"In the real world, though, these criteria often do not exist," Davis warned. "In many cases, land application of biosolids is restricted to three months a year due to climatic conctitions, availability, and the willingness of the farmer to accept the biosolids at his convenience, which often limits the window of opportunity."

According to Davis, increase regulations by federal, state, and local agencies have made the ermitting process much more tedious and restrictive, and the "NIMBY" (Not In My Back Yard) Syndrome

(Continues on page 9)

5

6


R by Chuck Groff

y Guys ! What's going on out there in Rural Waterland? I' m all excited here. The "99" PRWAAnnual Technical Conference is just around the corner, March

24, 25 and 26. Again it's at the beautiful Penn Stater Conference Center. Don't miss it. If you haven't registered yet, it's time. If you haven' t been to our Conference before, it's

time. Is it worth it? You bet it is! The exhibit hall is full again and there is always new stuff to look at and ask about. The sessions are grass root, kick dirt type training. The food will be

excellent as usual and in copious amounts. And over $4500.00 in cash to be given away! What more will it take to get you to come? It's time.

Now for my big announcement. After over a year of shopping, viewing, dealing, jawjacking, and waiting, I can finally say it: PRWA has purchased a MINI-MAINLINE TV SEWER CAMERA!!!!!! Color on-screen footage, video titler, VCR, and 400 foot of push cable. Elite Equipment from West Grove, PA sold us the R.S. Technical, Inc. sewer camera. Great people to deal with. You will see them at the Conference. This is for the use of our System Members only. And it ain't free. Yes, there will be a small charge for this service as this was an expensive piece of equipment and must be maintained. I ts intended use is for troubleshooting sewer lines. It is not for doing whole systems. That's what big crawler-type video inspection equipment is for. (God, do I wish I had that stuff to bring out to you guys!) I have even been to Rutgers University for a 2-day class on TV video inspection. That was a great class. So we are all set to go. Just give us a call at I -800-653-PRWA.

Speaking of the class I took at Rutgers University, I highly reconunend their continuing education classes to anyone. Very down to eatth, average Joe type instruction. Kept me awake the whole class! For more information you can contact them at:

Rutgers University. Office of Continuing Education. Phone number 732~932-927 I. Fax: 732-932~8726.

Email: [email protected]. Website is http://aesop.rutgers.edu/- ocpe.

Or try our own Penn State courses taught by Mike Gerardi. Call for info on the latest courses at 1-8 00-f'SU-TODAY (778-8632). Website is: http://www .outreach.psu.edu/C&I/Wastewater_Biology .html.

Well guys, see you in the field. Or at the Conference! It's time.

SfvtUt9 I 999

PRWA

Ill] Ni m u Kr t 1 : :~~~~ENTAL CONSULTANTS

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SfPUH9 1999

The Keystone Tap

RUTGERS Upcoming classes at Cook College- Winter 1999

Lake Management February S-6, 1999 • Cook Colkge, New Brnnswick, NJ Are you responsible for the management or enhancement of recreational, water supply or aesthetic waterbodies? This popular two-day course will introduce you to lake ecology and explain the utility of common lake rehabilitation measures. Among the various topics that will be covered are algae and weed control, dredging, aeration, the use of alum and NJDEP permit requirements. This year's class will also include a hands-on aquatic plant identification workshop and an imeractive, small group session where your solwions to lake management problems will be critiqued by the experts.

Planning Hydrology for Wetland Construction February 24-26, 1999 • Cook Colkge, New Brnnswick, NJ This three-day course will provide you with the basics for planning sources and quantities of water to support wetland construction and restoration. Topics include planning wetland mitigation to utilize water sources appropriate to the hydrogeomorphic locale, collecting hydrologic information for the seleced site and preparing a hydrograph. A hands-on desktop exercise will allow you to practice the techniques covered in class.

The Impact of Wetlands and Contaminated Sites on Real Property Tax Appeals - Evening Seminar March 4,1999 • Cook College, New Brunswick, NJ The presence of environmental contaminants or wetlands on a site can lower a property's value. This evening course will show you how to file an appeal of a site where wetlands or contamination exists. You will also learn alternative methods that a property owner can use to receive tax relief on an "environmentally impaired" sire. Cook College CPE is approved by the New Jersey State Board of Accountancy as a Continuing Education Sponsor, and attendees will earn 3.5 NJ Real Estate Appraiser credits.

Freshwater Wetlands March 29, 1999 • Cook College, New Brnnswick, NJ This one day seminar will provide you with a basic working knowledge of the rules promilgated pursuant to the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act. Additionally, participants will learn how to apply for a Letter of Interpretation, Statewide General Permit, Individual Freshwater Wetlands and State Open Water Fill Permits. Types of activities exempted from the requrements of the Transition Area Regulations will also be discussed.

To register or receive additional information, please contact the Cook College Office of

Continuing Professional Education at

(732) 932-9271.

Office of Continuing Professional Education • Cook College Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

102 Ryders Lane • New Brunswick • New Jersey 0890 1·8519 (732) 932-9271 • Fax: (732) 932-1187

7


by Judy Muehl

~in my last article l told you by the time you received the magazine I would probably be sliding around Pennsylvania ... and that's exactly what I' ve been doing for the past three weeks. Now, its time to write the article that you will receive just before the conference. The weather wi1l probably be much better ... I' 11 hold on to that thought! I always seem to be on my band wagon about wellhead protection or extension of water

into needy areas, so I think I'll give you a break and tell you about some really nice people I've had the opportunity to work with over the past year. So often we forget to say thank you to some of the special people who go out of their way for us. It's the New Year and I'd like to say my thanks.

First on my list has to be Barbara McMillen of Rural Utilities Services in Greensburg. Most of my projects are in Barb's area. She had a really rough year in 1998 with some family problems, but she never missed a meeting with me or the communities in Fayette, Somerset, and Greene Counties. She has a heart as big as Pennsylvania, but she knows her job and does it very well ... I know because I have learned most of what I know about waterline extensions from her.

Second on my list is Dr. Richard Passero. Dick did a lot of free training for me when I was in the WeJlhead Protection Program. Dick and his wife moved to Connecticut last year so he is no longer around for me to bother with all my projects. I hope you read the article "Groundwater Protection from Pennsylvania to Turkmenistan," because you'll know why Dick is on my list. Thank you Dick, from all of us at PRWA and from the children in Turkmenistan for being such a special friend.

To other special people who helped make my work a little easier in 1998 : Thanks to Evan Fields of Christiana for not forgetting to call and make me laugh from time to time. To Lambert Rosenbaum of Rural Utilities Services in Butler for helping me with the projects in his area. To Jeff Gordon from DEP Harrisburg State Office for all his help on the CCR template and the advice on Quality on Tap. Thanks to Gene Wolbert, Sanitarian Supervisor, DEP Uniontown District Office, for his help and expertise in working with the systems in Southwestern Pennsylvania .. . and last but not Jeast ... Thanks to the Staff and Board of PRWA . . . What a great bunch of people to work with!

I couldn ' t put everyone's name in this article, but then, I haven't met too many people involved in the water industry who aren't the best. I' d probably need the whole magazine to list you all ... and we all know Steve wouldn't let me do that!

Till next time . . . take care!

~rural~!!r

wants to hear from you Contact us at:

1-800-651-PRWfi website: hHp:/ / www.prwa.com

email: [email protected]

Sfvtbt9 1999

PRWA

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(Reed Beds- Continued from page 5) often applies. As part of the process, many regulatory agencies provide 30-day public comment peliods in reviewing and approving land application permits.

"This often stonewalls the process," Davis said. "Also, the applicant and the landowner are often required to implement groundwater monitoring and extensive laboratory testing of the biosolids. Liability issues and increased insurance premiums are also a consideration. Many states now require faci lities to maintain concrete storage facilities for biosolids instead of lagoons that were used in the past."

With reed beds, said Davis, the final product is indistinguishable from topsoil. "The heavy metal content will determine the ultimate method of disposal. Options include land disposal after screening out the rhizomes, burning, or disposal in a landfill," he said. "Some reed bed facilities are experimenting with beneficial reuse of the biosolids as a cover for solid waste landfills."

Davis said that when the biosolids do have to be removed from the reed beds, they are first taken

S;fPtbt<J 1999

The Keystone Tap

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out of service for six months. "This allow the uppermost layers to become mineralized and easier to work with,"he continued. "The residue is removed , leaving a couple of inches, without disturbing the underlying layers of gravel and sand. The beds are then flooded with water or effluent to allow the remaining rootstocks to regenerate. Replanting of the reeds is rarely ever necessary."

Reeds Harvested The reeds are usually harvested annually. "But

they are not a choice crop for wildlife," said Davis. "There is usually an accumulation of metals in the biosolids, and the plants take up a considerable amount. Some larger reed bed facilities have used the harvested reeds for sediment and erosion control. Others have mulched or chipped the harvested reeds. But they can be disposed of through burning or composting." 6

(This article has been reproduced by permtssron of the National Smatl Flows Clearinghouse. -reprinted with permission*original articLe appe(lfed in SmaLl Flows - Fall 1998; Vol. 12, No. 4)


10

''Pride of Pennsylvania" - Water Tasting Contest

I f your water system would like to participate in the "Pride of Pennsylvania" contest, bring to the conference one gallon of yo ur system's water in a glass container. Drop the water off at the Registration Desl~ when you check-in for the Conference. All water must be handed in no later than 3 :00 pm on Wednesday, March 24, 1999. Please attach the name the name of your system securely to the container. Conference attendees will decide who's is the

Due to preparation of a numbered ballot for voting - your system MUST pre-register for the contest by faxing tbis form to PKWA Fax: (814) 353-9341. no later than Friday, March 19,1999.

__ Yes, we thin!{ our System has the best tasting water. Register us for the ''Pride of Pennsylvania" Water Tasting Contest.

System Name:

Address:

City /State/Zip:

There will be NO ON SITE REGISTRATIONS for this contest!

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Sft'tile9 1999

PRWA The Keystone Tap

~~~;,)~ ... 4-IJU."''"""'':'SJ wMm nnrrmll Y/m r0rr $ ccnliltt41) nn

Annual Business Meeting

Delegate Registration Form

Every System Member with a population of 15,000 or less is considered a voting member. Please take a few minutes to complete this form to let us know who will be the Designated Delegate to represent your system·s vote at the Annual Business Meeting which will be conducted at I I: 15 am on Wednesday. March 24, 1999 at the Annual Conference.

Please return this form to us via fax: (814) 353-9341 or by maiL

no later than friday, March 1 2. 1999.

Delegate's Name:

Title:

System Name:

Address:

Phone: Fax:

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SfPWt9 1999 11

12

The Keystone Tap

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YOU CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

For all your travel needs, Town & Country Travel

a member service ofNRWA. Call Becca at 800-545-1054

National Rural Water Association

PRWA

SfPti«-9 1999

PRWA The Keystone Tae

The Groundwater Protection Technicians: A Unique Bunch

V by Jane Smith-Decker

J ou might be sitting there and wondering what it is like to be a Groundwater Protection Technician for PRWA. Well, I know that this is a question that is just burning in many minds (or it may be lunch burning in the microwave), so I decided to take this opportunity to enlighten you. Well, besides having a wild imagination, a strict qualification requirement for PRWA employees, we lead quiet and serene lives. Our main purpose in life is to head

off disasters for people so that there are no crises. We set up contingency plans so that when a lTuck goes off the road and dumps a load of windshield washer solvent into the town's drinking water source, the system has its Haz-Mat team all set up and ready to go with booms so that they can contain the spill before it reaches the intake. As a result of all this planning, we rarely get calls from systems saying "you have got to get down here RIGHT NOW, we have a wellhead protection plan we need to put together IMMEDIATELY." No, there's none of that.

Preparing protection plans for a living may sound boling, but, I have to admit we still manage to have fun , showing water systems how they can POTENTIALLY SAVE LOTS OF MONEY THROUGH CONTAMINATION PREVENTION. We attend lots of township authority, planning commission, and borough council meetings to convince the members that they are doing the right thing by planning for the future. And let me tell you, if you haven't been to one of these meetings, you are missing out on the time of your life. Then there is the system contaminant inventory. These are opportunities to see some of the finest scenery in the state, to learn where the best jeep trails are, and, if we are lucky, to get a glimpse of some wildlife. Best of all, we meet fine people who work hard making sure that no disaster can impact their water systems. As always, we feel inspired after these meetings. And that is all we need.

Yes, the Groundwater Technician's lonely life on the road definitely has its rewards. As seasoned travelers, we get to know all the good places to stay. Ones that have charm, hot coffee in the morning, air conditioning in the summer, and a phone jack that you can plug your laptop into (without having to remove the headboard looking for the jack, or worse, having to sit on the nightstand to work because the phone cord is so short). Areas where cell phones go out of range. Chances to get out of the house and spend some quality time alone with our laptops after a long day on the road. And a chance to disappear just as soon as the cat coughs up a huge hairball on the beige living room rug. (Sometimes, you can't get out soon enough). A chance to meet new people, like the guy at the Sleep Inn who opened his door just as I began to put the key in. (Scared us both out of our wits because I had the wrong room.) We learn where to find good meals and fast service coupled with duck-in and outrestrooms. Oh, and then there are the shortcuts! My favorites are roads marked "no winter maintenance" and "travel at your own 1isk."

Just like we don' t need much to make us happy, we don't need a lot of fanfare. We like to have things so well planned and protected that there are no crises to mess up our quests for sources to protect. We may not be carried out of town on people's shoulders for "saving the day" but then, as Steve says, the Groundwater Technicians are a "unique" bunch. And so are the people we serve. That is why we need YOU to give us something to feel good about (or at least something to tell Steve when we have been out roaming around all week.) We want to save you from a disaster. We want to find the worst potential sources of contaminants in your aquifer recharge area so that we can rest, thinking about what COULD have happened. We come well armed with maps, enough computer capability in our laptops to publish the New York Times, global positioning devices that can locate the tick on a dog's hind end, and lots of creative ideas to get people talking amongst themselves. We meet with interested parties in your town (the steering committee), locate potential

(Continued on page 37)

S~ /999 13

The Keystone Tap

14

William C. Weil President

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S~ /999

PRWA The Keystone Tae

Well on Your Customer's Way to Clean Water Simple Disin fection Can Remove Many Contaminant Sources

s me bacteria that thrive in wells, while not harmful themselves, can cause problems. Iron bacteria can stain plumbing fittings and laundry, promote the growth of other bacteria, increase corrosion and encrust well screens and pumps.

Iron and sulfur bacteria cause a buildup of bio-film in wells. By providing an environment for other more harmful bacteria to live, bio-filrn reduces chlorine's effectiveness in ridding wells of bacteria.

Iron bacteria can also cause electrons from ferrous iron (Fe2) to be converted to ferric iron (Fe3), which increases oxidation (corrosion) of pipes and pumps. Free fenic iron ion can bind with other chemicals to clog pump intakes, well screens and water filters. A reduction in a well's infl.ow spaces will increase the water flow speed in the remaining spaces; this turbulent flow releases even more minerals into the well and water system.

A properly constructed, adequately cased (lined) and grouted (sealed) well often draws water at a depth where bacteria are not present. Bacteria are usually filtered out, or they die off, as water infiltrates and slowly moves in the sub-surface ground water environment. However, ground water can become affected by bacteria when there is insufficient filtration or travel time between the land surface and the ground water.

Bacteria are present in upper soil layers and in most streams, lakes and ponds. In addition, concentrated bacteria sources can include inefficient septic systems, feces from farm animals and storm runoff. Wells can become contaminated with bacteria in several ways:

• Shallow or dug wells that are constructed from boards, bricks, stone or tile are vulnerable to surface water contamination. Dug wells, with their water in contact with saturated soil layers, are particularly at risk because contaminated water can seep into the well. Insect infestation is difficult to prevent in large diameter wells.

• If a drilled or bored well has casing (liner)

by Andrew Stone American Groundwater Trust

that has not been properly sealed, bacteria from the upper soil layers can leak down into the well. In these instances, surface water or contaminated ground water may move downward, contaminating high quality aquifers.

• In the event of a flood or storm runoff, surface water could enter the top of the well if the casing does not extend far enough above the ground or if there is no watertight seal on the casing. Wells that are in pits below ground level, such as in driveways or lawns, may be vulnerable to bacterial contamination.

• Over time, old well casings may rust through, leaving holes near ground level where water can seep in and contaminate deeper ground water This problem can be worse if a well is used as an earth contact for electricity. Earthing corrodes well casing. Although convenient for electricians, well casing should not be used as an electrical ground .

• Well casing can become cracked. Once there is a direct connection to the surface layers of soil, bacterial infection may result. Earthquakes and settling around the well, or impact damage from farm implements or snowplows, can make a well susceptible to contamination.

• Bacteria can be introduced into a well when it is drilled or when a pump is installed or serviced. Contractors must ensure that their equipment is decontaminated between jobs to prevent transpmting infection from well to well. Pump insta11ers often lay out the pump, pipe and cable on the ground before installation. This practice can allow bacteria from the ground to adhere to the well equipment and enter the well. Wells should be sanitized after any service or installation work.

Wells may become infected when ground water levels rise above normal and extend up to soil levels where bacteria are present. This can occur during heavy rainfall; if major, long-term water use by a nearby irrigation system or municipal well ceases (groundwater then begins to rise to levels much higher than at the time of origjnal well construction); or when

(Continued or:. pase 16)

15

The Keystone Tap

16

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(Disinfection - continued from page 15)

PRWA

road construction, mining operations or dam construction cause changes in ground water levels.

• A common way for bacteria to infect wells is a faulty or non-existent well seal that allows insects, especially earwig beetles, to take up residence in the well casing. Their droppings and dead bodies can contaminate wells with bacteria.

• Unsealed abandoned wells and geotechnical investigation drill holes typically used in engineering investigations for highways and major building development can be conduits fo r contaminated surface water to reach aquifers. Natural outcroppings of fractured rock and milling or quarrying can also provide contaminated surface water with rapid access to aquifers.

• Backflow prevention devices are essential to prevent bacte1ia from being siphoned back in the well. This problem can occur if a power failure stops a pump while a garden hose fills a fish pond. Without a backflow device or an adequate foot valve on the pump, water from the pond can be siphoned back down the well.

Customers' new wens should be tested for bacteriological quality, a requirement in some states. It is recommended that all wells be retested annually or after any maintenance and replacement work that involves well equipment. It is particularly important to test customers' wells if they notice any change in taste, odor or appearance of their household water. 0

Andrew Stone is executive director ofT he American Ground Water Trust, Concord, NH, a non-profit membership organization.

This article has been reprinted with the permission of Water Technologies -Andrew Stone. hup:l/waternet. com

Sft!tbt9 1999

PRWA

SfvUH-9 1999

The Keystone Tap

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15'

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SfPWt<~ 1999

mailto:[email protected]


J J J' by Chris Shutt

Y Yell hello everyone. I would like to tell you about the new program I'm doing now. My new title is Conservation Specialist. What the program is, is just what it says, Conservation Program. You all should have received a letter of explanation and a questionnaire. But if not just call and we will send you a copy. If you want to participate just fill out the questionnaire and send it back or look it up under conservation on our website at www.prwa.com.

First you have to have more than 15% unaccounted for water loss, then we can get started. You also have to make a 5-year commitment to do a water audit and rate study on your own after the initial work we do. Now you ' re asking "Well, what do you do?" We take a look at your annual water supply report and see if it is filled out correctly or if filled out at all, which seems to be a problem with a number of systems. Then we do a complete water audit of your system with numbers you provide. Oh! Before I go any further, I should tell you, you have to commit one person wholly to the project. Now back to our program. Next we will do a rate study that will give you a ballpark figure on how much your customers should be paying per thousand gallons; this figure will keep your system in the black on operation and maintenance. All this time, we will teach you how to perform these tasks. Once we determine what your unaccounted for is, we will give a cost analysis of what you are losing by not fixing your leaks. Then we will go out looking for your leaks. You should first note that all curb and valve boxes need to be clear and accessible. If you don' t have equipment to find them, we will lend you what you need. We can also give you a line locator to find lines if you need to. We will teach you how to use this equipment if you don 't know how. We also have leak detectors to go out to you so you can continue to look on your own. And this may be what we have to do, depending on the size of your system. If you have a large system, we will stay and get things well under way and let you finish the system. This will be necessary because of the time factor involved with a comprehensive survey. That means a survey of every valve, hydrant, and curb stop. After this is all over, we will give you a very nice bound report with a conservation package of materials that will help you set up a Conservation Program. Now I guess you're going to ask what do we do next year? If you have any problems just give us a call. If you're also asking how much does this cost? The answer is Not One Red Cent, thanks to the D.E.P. This program is in prutnership with the Department. Don't let this discourage you from participating. This progrrun is for those of you who wish to help yourself stay viable in the coming new millennium. So until next time, "Be proud of what you do and do it well."

P.S. In a 100-year period, a water molecule spends 98 years in the ocean, 20 months as ice, about 2 weeks in lakes and rivers, and less than a day in the atmosphere. ~

~rural~

S~ /999

wants to hear from you Contact us at

1-800-653-PitWfi website: hHp:/ / www.prwa.com

email: [email protected]

19


-- !HJ~rt~ & l ff!E

E by Mike Dill

very so often something comes along that you cannot ignore. Here comes one of those things. It's called CCR or Consumer Confidence Report and it's here to stay. All water systems in Pennsylvania will have to complete a report by October 1999. You say October is sti11 far away and I have plenty of time. No

problem just jot a few things down on paper and another report is done. Not so fast. What do you have to write and in what form, and will I have to get information for this report. Answer is: YES.

Let's back up a bit and get some of those bothersome details out of the way. The Consumer Confidence Report comes from the reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1996. EPA finalized the wording of this repott in August 1998. Each water system will have to complete a report by October 1999. No exceptions, no waivers, no extensions. October 1999 is it, get it done! The information for this report will be obtained from the calendar year of 1998. No big deal you say. Well guess again. Did the system have any violations? (this has to be included in the report). Boil water notices come to mind. Do you add chemicals for pH adjustment, conosion control of how about dsinfection? Guess what, (has to be in the report). If you add anything to the water or how it's treated (got to be in the report). Who should be contacted with questions regarding this report (in the report). Is more information available about the system and how it provides water to its users (in the report). A lot of things go (in the report).

You might ask who is responsible for this. The answer is quite simple, your customers or users of the system want to know what's in the water they drink and they have a right to know. It's up to you to educate them. This report can be used one of two ways, breeze through and move on, or you can invest some time and use this report as a means to effectively communicate and educate the users about the product you supply 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year. Potable water is one of life's basic needs. We can go without some things, but water is not one of them.

PRWA has a computer disk that can make doing this report fun and easy. Well, maybe not fun, but it can help with the easy part. This disk can help with mandatory language and how to set up the forms and how to calculate test results, oh, I forgot to mention that all testing for 1998 must be included in this report. Another one of those bothersome details. Make Jife easy, get the disk, get it done, don ' t wait. Still think you can put it off to the last moment, well think again. Got to gather up all lab test results from 1998 and calculate results. (No matter what you do in this business somehow or other we always get involved with math). Oh, you say you don't know bow to calculate the results, get the disk, it can help.

Don' t have lab reports or we send our samples out. Still got to get the results and well, you know (in the report). Like it or not (in the report). The box that you just put away in storage, that contains all the records and reports for 1998, go get it, need that stuff, well, you know (in the report). Also as a little added bonus, you must supply a copy of this report to your customers, all of them. Another reason you shouldn't wait for the end and throw something together. If the above information confuses you, or makes your head hurt, call Doctor PRWA and relief is on the way. Take two now and the pain won't be too bad come October. Remember, 1-800-653-PRWAcan help with the pain, we can't do the report for you, sony, but we can make doing it easier and give you some tips on how to make this report a way to communicate and educate your customers in a positive and constructive manner. Sit back and relax, PRWA is here for you, but don 't relax too long because some other bright shiny object will catch your attention and before you know it October is comin' and I don't have my CCR done and someone just parked an eighteen wheeler on a hydrant and ... the beat goes on.

Remember ... water is our most valuable resource, use it cautiously any. ---vJ1: ~ P.S. another bothersome detail, your second report is due by July 2000. See ya, bye. f x ·.

20 S~ /999

PRWA The Keystone Tap ----------------

Every water system in Pennsylvania is required by EPA regulation to have a completed

Consumer Confidence Report by October 1999

Call (800) 653-PRWA for more information about CCR :S and how we can help to complete the report.

Be prepared, don't wait to the last minute, you won 't have time.

Sfvt.Ut9 1999 21


22

Groundwater Protection from Pennsylvania to Turkmenistan

n July of 1997, Judy Muehl, Groundwater Technician, received a call from Teresa Rissmiller, International Rural Water Association Director, relaying a request from Leon Ressler, Lancaster County Cooperative Extension Office. Three representatives from Turkmenistan were arriving in Lancaster County to tour agricultural facilities and wanted to talk to someone about groundwater protection.

This map indicates the location of Turkmenistan, a former Republic of the Soviet Union, that borders on the Caspian Sea.

Late in August, Judy and Teresa, armed with information, books, and groundwater simulators met with the representatives and their interpreter at the Mount Joy Township Building. Two of the representatives, Nikita Barsuk and Timur Berkeliev, explained that they were volunteers at the Ashgabat Ecology Club which was set up for the youth as an extension of environmental education outside the classroom. The big concerns of this small country, which borders on the Caspian Sea, were that they have very sandy soils, no sanitary sewer systems, and salt water intrusion from the sea. They explained that they wanted to educate their youth on groundwater so that they may become interested in pursuing an envirorunental career which could help their country in the future.

Judy and Teresa provided information on the various steps of the Groundwater Protection Program as well as the successful EPA/PRWA Senior Citizen

and Youth Volunteer Program set up to educate youth on groundwater resources. A demonstration of the groundwater simulators followed. Nikita Barsuk, a Hydrogeologist, was especially interested in the groundwater simulator. His first words when he saw the simulator were ... "You stole my idea ... I was going to build one of those!" Much of the time was spent talking about presentations, how youth became involved in the Groundwater Protection Programs and how the simulator was used.

The meeting went very well and good friends were made at that meeting. Nikita expressed their appreciation for all of the educational information and books that we provided to them for use in their Ecology Club. After being in the United States for about 6 weeks, he stated that they were pleased with what they had to take back to their country to share with others.

Judy stayed in touch with Nikita and Timur by email as we all agreed to track each other's progress and share stories. Turkmenistan is not a rich country and the Ashgabat Ecology Club depends a lot on contributions. In the spring of 1998, Judy contacted Dr. Richard Passero of the Western Group to find out what it would cost to provide a simulator for the Club.

Dr. Richard Passero of the Western Group delivers the groundwater simulator to El izabethtown. Teresa Rissmiller, International Rural Water Director, accepts the simulator on behalf of PRWA and the Ashgabat Ecology Club in Turkmenistan. (Dick Passero has been a very good friend to PRWA over the past 5 years, donating his time and expertise in groundwater to the PRWA Wellhead Protection Program.)

SfvU«9 1999

PRWA

PRWA Teamwork . . . at it's best. Mike Dill, Kathy Fye, Chuck Groff, and Judy Muehl (Behind the camera) get the groundwater model from the luggage pick-up area in San Diego.

Dr. Passero stated that the simulators were first developed through a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to Western Michigan University and he felt a contribution of a simulator to such an organization would be something that he would like to pursue. Within a few months, the groundwater simulator was delivered to Judy. The main problem now was how to get the simulator to Turkmenistan. Dr. Passero and Steve Krchnavy both joined in the effort and made calls to find a way to transport the simulator, but to no avail. Dr. Passero had not filled the simulator with the sand and gravel so everything was packed so they could construct it to match the geology of the region they lived in . .. and it would make it much easier to ship. The cost to mail it was very expensive, so the simulator stayed here in Pennsylvania unti l Judy happened to email Nikita and told him that she would be away at training in San Diego during the first week of June. An e-mail came

Sfvtbt9 1999

back saying that Nikita was in Washington D.C. and would be at the University in San Diego for 6 weeks ... including the week that Judy would be there.

And so the journey of the Turkmenistan Groundwater Simulator began ...

Hey, even a groundwate r simulator should take in the beautiful view of the bay in San Diego . ..

The Keystone Tap

A li tt le over a year from the meeting in Mt. joy Township . . . Nikita finally gets possession of the simulator bound for the Ashgabat Ecology Club in Turkmenistan.

But ... this isn't the end of the story. Watch for the follow-up article in the next magazine to find out what happens to the simulator. 0

TURKMENISTAN TRIVIA: • Turkmenistan is the world's 4th largest natural

gas producer. • Turkmenistan is the home of the Akhaltekin

horse, one of the first bred horses used to develop the Arabian and English Breeds.

• Turkmenistan is slightly larger than California in size.

23


24

U1e~iJJJlfil! l~ l, V~lf<e W~aceJr 5Jys;tcaflull: Freed/om Fwp. Walter & Sewer Alillhorit!.y

~rural~ w~"ts to "~~r ~bout you Wrih ~"J h i I us ~bout your sysh~n,

you couiJ b~ f~~tur~J i" ~" upcotni"1 Ktysto"~ T~p.

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ttn~ i I: prw~@prw~.cotn

Freedom Twp. Water and Sewer Authority is located in Blair County. A contact stabilization process, it was built in 1979 to treat a flow of 0.2 mgd. In 1993 the plant was upgraded to 0.4 mgd, and plans are underway to upgrade to handle 0.6 mgd total by adding an extended aeration system to the existing facilities.

The wastewater treatment plant, serving 685 customers, has one comminutor and two cholorine contact tanks. Two pump stations handle the Boro of Newry and the Village of McKee. Plant operator Joe Stu by, with 9 years at a C-1 certification, discharges an effluent of 6.0 mg/1 of CBOD, and a TSS of 8.0 mg/1, into the Frankstown Branch of the Juniata River. That is some clean water, Joe! Authority Chairman is Dan Giarth, Sec., Linda Lloyd.

SfvU«9 1999

PRWA The Keystone Tap ----------------------------------------------------------------Donohoe Center Hosts Wastewater Downlink

Penn 's Corner Resource Conservation and Development Area hosted an Effective Wastewater Management - the challenge for Rural and Suburban Pennsylvania Seminar on November 17, 1998 at the Donohoe Center, in Greensburg.

by Barb McMillen

The seminar included local speakers on a variety of topics. Chuck Moore, Representative of State Senator Kukovich's Office, spoke on legislative issues relating to wastewater. Rob Knight, Soil Scientist with NRCS, explained the soil conditions of Westmoreland County and their effect on wastewater treatment, specifically on-lot systems. Jack Crislip, of the PA DEP, addressed the department's views concerning

A Groundwater Simulator made by Dr. Richard Passero of the Western Group. The Groundwater Simulator is used t.o demonstrate the flow of groundwater. The simulator is a valuable tool for educating communities (and groups of all ages) as they establish Wellhead Protection Plans.

effective wastewater management. Attorney John Campfield discussed the legal wastewater issues facing the small private associations.

Two alternative on-site systems were demonstrated, Ecoflo and Cromoglass. Both systems are PA DEP approved.

PRWA Staff members, )oel jordan and Judy Muehl (behind the camera} demonstrate the Groundwater Simulator at the Donohoe Center in Greensburg, PA.

SfvtUt9 1999

Displays were provided by Rural Utilities Service, PENNVEST, Rural Community Assistance Program, Westmoreland County Cooperative Extension, Pennsylvania Rural Water Association (PRWA), and Cromoglass. The most interesting display was the Working Groundwater Simulator provided by PRWA. The simulator illustrated how easily groundwater sources can become contaminated.

A live satellite downlink from Pennsylvania State University was the highlight of the meeting. A variety of topics were covered but all related to one main issue, to help prepare municipal leaders and interested individuals for the task of planning for wastewater management.

Penn's Corner Planning Committee joined forces with all agencies housed in the Donohoe Center to make the program at the Donohoe Center one of the best attended of the 30-plus downlink sites. 6

25


26

Plan to attend the banquet at the PRWA Annual Conference and see who is has been nominated

and who will be receiving awards

Water System of the Year Wastewater System of the Year Presented to a water system for recognition of a job well done in providing the highest quality of water and service to it's customers.

Presented to a wastewater system for recognition of a job well done in providing the highest quality effluent to the environment and service to it's customers.

Decision Maker of the Year Woman of the Year Presented to an elected or appointed board member of a water or wastewater system who has shown dedication and perseverance to go "above and beyond" while acting effectively in critical situations and demonstrating knowledge and genuine concern for the system they serve.

Presented to a female employee of a water/wastewater system who has shown dedication, perseverance and above average skills while acting effectively in critical situations and demonstrating knowledge and genuine concern for the system she serves.

Richard C. Miller Memorial Awards for Water and Wastewater Operators

Presented to an operator of a water and wastewater system who has shown dedication and perseverance to go "above and beyond" while acting effectively in critical situations and demonstrating knowledge and genuine concern for the system that they serve.

Nominations have been accepted in the above categories. The individuals being recognized have exhibited outstanding achievements, leadership skills and excellence in water and/or wastewater field.

SfPU«9 I 999

PRWA The Keystone Tap --~------------------------------------------------

ANNUAL CONFIRINCI ISSUE

Turn tile pttge ttnd lind out . . .

(In tlddition to: Clt1sses tlnd Wol'ltsllops, tile Second llnnutll Sou/'ce Wtltel' Pl'otection Wol'ltsllopjConfel'ence, II Full E~tlllblt Ht1ll, enjoyt1ble entel'ttlinment, lots of netwol'lting, socit~lizing tlnd fl'iendsllip building.

SfVtbt9 1999 27


29' SfPti«9 1999

PRWA -------------- The Keystone Tap

ANNUAL CO

SfvWe9 1999 29


30

to mention The

"Infamous" One-Pound

Pork Chop??? ~----=---L--===-----_j

We'll be looking for you a t this year's conference, but you need to register SOON! Time is running out!

S~/999

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1'So You Want to be Certified" The Board of Certification has released the

second edition of the proposed operator rules and regs. If you don't have a copy, PRWA has copies available for your review. Give us a call to get your copy . . . remember this legislation has a direct impact on you as an operator or you as a facility owner. It will change how things are done in the future.

Pennsylvania RU?·al Water Association would like to invite you to prepa?'e a sh01't article about you?' wate1'/wastewater system or other topics which would be of interest to out· 1'eaders. We also welcome articles from our Associate Members. Sha1'e your news with us.

Please send your articles with photogt·aphs, if available, to : PRWA, 138 West Bishop Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823, Telephone: 814-353-9302 • Fax: 814-353-9341 • email: [email protected]

PRWA u;ilt 1-etum y01tr ar#cle and pbotos if requested, otberwise, we reser/Je the right to keep !be articles and photos for future

use. I'RW8 also reser/Jes the rigbt to edit tbe article for ler~gth ar~d available space constmir~s, a11d for grammar and pzmctuatwn.

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SfvUH9 1999

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31

The Keystone Tap

by Joel Jordan

M rch Madness is in the air!!! The time of year that true blue Rural Water People wait for ... The anticipation of the schedule . .. The excitement of finding out who will make it ... and who won't. Which one is the best??? So many choices .. . the fun . . . the food . .. the training sessions!!! That's right ... it's PRWA Conference Time! !!

(and it is true madness)

There are only a few weeks left until the Conference. If you haven't registered yet, get to it! There is no reason a member of PRWA should miss this Conference. This year promises to be the best Conference ever (at least, until next year). If you have a Wellhead Protection Plan, make sure you are also sending a representative to the Source Water Protection Conference. The Source Water Protection Conference will be held in conjunction with the PRWA Conference.

Okay, enough promoting the Conference. The Source Water Protection Department (all 2 of us) are in the final stretch. By June we will have most of the current Wellhead Protection Plans completed. This means that there will be room on our schedules for us to help a new set of water systems develop plans. Starting in July, Jane and I are looking for water systems who want to develop a Wellhead Protection Program. We are also looking for a few of the water systems that have already developed a Welll1ead Protection Plan that want to work towards PA DEP approval.

We will help you revise your Plan and implement an effective Program.

Please, call us and get on the list.

PRWA

Oh yeah, if you have time, I think there is a college basketball game on this month too . . .

tf~

32 SfPWt9 1999

PRWA

Sfvtbt9 1999

The Keystone Tap

With four location's serving Pennsylvania

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33


IFrt:~tf!lJU(!) n Mif?J.Jtr!r ~Sya::f~rr ~

Roaring Creek Water Company

3 4

An artificial system of water supply was not needed in Shamokin until after the opening of the mines, as there were innumerable springs of excellent water on the mountain north of town, and many other places within the borough limits. In 1850, however, the supply from the springs was diminished and polluted by the mine operations, and William and Reuben Fagley began laying a line of pint logs with two inch bore along Sunbury Street. Several years later a similar water main was laid from a mountain spring to the Samokin Street railroad crossing, where a public fountain was located, and in 1858, the Fagley's made an innovation by putting down a line of iron pipes along Liberty Street from Cameron to Sunbury, and along Sunbury Street from Orange to Shamokin. Seven years later, Stephen Bittenbender constructed a similar water main on Pearl Street from Dewart to Sunbury, along Sunbury Street to Shamokin to the railroad crossing. They were purely private enterprises, although crude in design and construction, proved a great convenience to the

public. The Shamokin Water Company was formed

in 1866 and incorporated August 7, 1872, with a capital of $100,000, by the following well known men: Isaac May, Sr., president; John B . Douty, vice president; F. J. Anspach, secretary and engineer, and William H. Marshall, treasurer. Besides the above, the board of directors consisted of Reuben Fagley, William R. Kutzner, William Brown, Matthias Emes and Conrad Graeber, while Daniel Yost, W.M. Weaver, Daniel S. Miller, John Rosser, Thomas Rosser and Withington Lake were the remainder of the incorporators. A 15,000 gallon reservoir was erected on Trout Run at the old Fagley Dam, and the water was conducted by gravity through a twelve-inch wooden main to a tank near Eighth and Sunbury Streets, from which it was pumped through a sixteen inch iron main to another tank on the mountain side, near the Cameron culm bank, so that sufficient pressure was obtained to distribute the water to all parts of town. Water was first supplied for public

s~ 1999

PRWA

consumption in 1873, and in early January, 1874, water was pumped into the home of William H. Marshall, treasurer of the newly formed company. The system was expensive, and two years later a new route was laid out at a point three thousand nine hundred feet further up the stream, and a sufficient vertical height was secured for a gravity service, thus doing away with the expensive and irregular system of pumping. Since then the plant has become one of the finest water systems in the country.

Roaring Creek Water Company was formed in 1884 and continued to grow and acquire more land for the present watershed. The extreme eastern end of Brush Valley was acquired from the Hethrington family about 1930.

Gradually, the McWilliams' family acquired ownership of Roaring Creek Water Company. Curtis Q. McWilliams, C.Q., (1852-1921) was one of the incorporators of the Roaring Creek Water Company when it was formed in 1884. Three of C.Q.'s six children acquired an interest in this company and the two other companies which were eventual1y taken over, Anthracite Water Company and Bear Gap Water Company. (The names and dates of C.Q.'s children were as follows: John Scott 1896-1 951, Douglas, Sr. 1889- 1964, and Ida 1885-1977)

After the death of Douglas, Sr., his two sons, Douglas, Jr. (1927-1985) and Curtis Q. (1928-1971) continued the family tradition for over 100 years of supplying water of the highest quality to nearly 60,000 residents of a three county area.

In 1985, Roaring Creek Water Company was purchased by Consumers Water Company of Portland, Maine. In 1995, the name was changed to Consumers Pennsylvania Water Company, Roaring Creek Division, so that its customers would know that it is part of a nationally-recognized group of 27 water systems in seven states all sharing the name of the parent company, Consumers Water Company of Portland, Maine, a holding company that serves over 200,000 customers.

Roaring Creek today is proud of its history of service to the area. Nearly 40 dedicated employees continue to strive as the McWilliams' family did to provide an adequate quality water supply to their people, as well as fire protection.

Several other business operations were located in the watershed. The McWilliams and McConnell Ice Business was started about 1880 with the

SfPtiH9 1999

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The Keystone Tap

McConnell family continuing until the coming of electricity and modern refrigeration in the 1930's. Number 4 Reservoir is still commonly called the Ice Dam and several large storage houses were built nearby to store ice through the summer months.

In 1879, Mr. McWilliams, McConnell and Darlington Kulp started to produce bricks in the vicinity of the Trout Run Reservoir. Twenty-eight men were employed and the company could produce 30,000 bricks per day. The clay was taken from the soil of the immediate area. The company was sold in 1903 to the Union Brick Company and continued in operation until about 1915 under several other names. Many of the older homes and buildings in Shamokin were constructed with these fine bricks.

WiWam Beury formed a company to produce black gun powder (blasting powder) in 1877, about one half mile east of the present Shamokin Hospital. About 150 kegs of powder were produced each day and were used in the mines of the area. 6

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35


fr Br:r~ D !lr " ~Yif u f ®f Vi}@ WJ Questions & Answers suPP-lied by PRWA Associate Members

We have asked our Associate Members to provide us with Three Questions most commonly asked of them by the small system personnel. Our questions and answers are provided by:

PA. Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST)

Q: What are your interest rates? A: They vary by county depending upon the county unemployment rates. Once approved by the PEN NV EST Board of Directors, they do not change. Right now the interest rates range from a low of 1% or a high of3.5%.

Q: How do I apply for funding, and how do I get a grant? A: The application process begins with a planning consultation meeting with the Regional DEP Staff (PENNVEST Engineers) and the P ENNVEST Project Specialist responsible for your area. A system applies for funding, PENNVEST will develop a financing offer appropriate for your system. No separate application is made for a grant.

David Nelson, Inc.

Q: How is Electrical Demand Management (EDM) different than Energy Audits provided by Consulting Companies? A : Generally an Energy Audit focuses on pumping efficiencies through devices such as VFD 's capicitors, reduced voltage starters, and primium efficiency motors. Electrical Demand Management concentrates on recognizing opportunities to reduce the billed demand.

Q: What type of results can a typical water company expect to achieve through EDM? A: Because the demand charges for water pumping facilities are a large portion of the electric bill, the techniques through EDM have achieved between 25 to 50 percent reduction of the electric bill.

L. Robert Kimball & Assoc. Inc.

Q: How do you determine the data provided for the acquisition of a water/sewer pipeline right-of-way across privately owned property? A: During the preliminary design phase we acquire county tax maps of the project area. Once the pipeline location is selected and field verified for constructability, the tax data is verified by a courthouse deed search. The right-of-way are determined from the actual "as built" Location of the pipeline.

Q: How do you determine the recommended tap f ee? A: Tap fees are determined by two early components. Tap fees of similar existing systems in the geographic area. The tap fee impact upon project financing and the resultant monthly service rate required to satisfy the project debt and operate and maintain the project.

Q: During the design of a pipeline system, why doesn 't the Engineer's employees talk more with the property owners affected by the project? A: The first reason is time. There is

Q: How long does it take to receive not adequate time to initiate a a funding offer? Q: How does Demand Reduction dialogue with each property owner. A: The Pennvest Board meets 3 times affect electrical deregulation ? Time also translates to money. The a year, in March, July and A: The electrical suppliers review second reason is that in at least November. The application cut-off two numbers when negotiating 90% of the time the property owner dates are about six weeks prior to a KWH rate; the overall applied has questions about costs that are yet the board meetings. As long as all load and the Load Factor Ratio. undetermined. Third is consistency. technical issues are satisfied In many cases, EDM can greatly Details regarding a project should (permit level plans and specs), the improve the Load Factor Ratio, come from one source rather than board could approve funding at the resulting in better rates under from various people involved in meeting soon after the cut-off deregulation. the project.

--~--------~-------------------------------------------------3 6 SfvW19 1999


"Changes and Challenges"

A by Roger Milliron Jr.

s PRWA's new circuit rider, I've been faced with many challenges, thinking up a title for my column being one of those challenges. Since starting 1n October,

* I've traveled a lot of the state and have met with over 100 systems. I've learned o something new or unique at each system, and I hope I've shared something which

may be helpful to you. As technology and regulations change, all small systems must also change. People are, by

nature, reluctant to change. Small systems and operators must not fear the future, they must embrace it. Of course, if you need assistance with these changes, please call PRWA and we will try to assist you.

Technology has come a long way since I started in the water industry. Many small systems are upgrading their equipment on a daily basis. But one of the biggest questions that I receive is what to do with the "old stuff." I've learned in my short tenure, that your "old stuff' may be the new equipment needed for a system which is less fortunate than you. Please take advantage of placing an ad in the Keystone Tap to find a new home for old equipment.

Well, it is time to go, but don't forget about the conference, March 24-26 at the Penn Stater Conference Center. I hope to see you there. And if you're unable to make the Conference, I hope to be visiting your system soon.

As always, if you need assistance, please call. We are here for you!

(Across Divide- Continued from page 13) sources of contaminants in wellhead protection areas, produce fancy looking maps and put together all sorts of recommendations gathered from the meetings with the steering committee (along with a few of our own gathered from the vast sources of information at our disposal). We then produce a fine looking report with ordinances that you can adopt. We assist you with implementation of the wellhead protection plan and with contingency planning for new source development to help prevent water shortages in the future. All of this for the price of a

S~ /999

~

PRWA membership! Well, delineations may tuna little extra, but we will you help find assistance for this too.

So, don ' t let another day go by without thinking about the dedicated, lonely Groundwater Technician in your area that needs a little excitement in their life. We are out there roaming the lonely roads at night just searching for sources to protect (and you thought we were lost or looking for shortcuts). And we will do ANYTHING to make you and Steve happy! G

37


I· " lS (For those of you unfortunate souls that weren't able to make the last year's conference and wonder who Bernie Hopbottom is, and why he is the PRWA-DEP Rep, let me tell you how all this came about . . . )

l hee and Scratchie, being cheap and a couple of connivers, sucked up to Steve, the Big Kahana of PRWA, and convinced him to let them haul some suckers, er, attendees to the conference on their "Kuntry Cadalack." This was so they did not have to pay the registration fee themselves. Now, remember the last episode ended with Steve pondering a glum future for Chuck, the PRWA wastewater tech? Well, things in his life are about to go downhill, fast. And in the end, a whole lot of others fortunes too.

Steve assigned Chuck to ride shotgun with these two, and even laid out an itinerary for picking up people. On the appointed day, here comes Itchee and Scratchie rolling into Chuck's driveway in the Jeepster, towing a hay wagon. Chuck just shrugged his shoulders, kicked the dirt, and mumbled something about it not getting any worse. Oh, justyou wait little Buddy!

Off they went to pick up reveling conference go'ers, Chuck in the back seat of the 1974 green and white Jeepster, fighting to get a No.2 double coilspring off his butt. They still hadn' t caught the critter living in the back of the Jeepster yet.

They first picked up the two originals, Gary and Bradley at Mt. Morris. Chuck thought they were somehow related to ltchee and Scratchie, but what does he know? They crawled on the hay wagon with no regard to their safety. Up Interstate 79 they flew, the hay wagon sweeping from side to side like all fine pieces of equipment these scoundrels have. In due time they arrived at the town of Crane ville. There they loaded up Connie, Mike, and George. Itchee dug around in the back of the Jeepster and passed out some liquid refreshments in the Mason jar lunchpails. "Loaded up" everyone! This they did all along the way. Drove on over to Rouseville. Picked up "Sticky Fingers" Karen and Bill, then on to Tionesta for Glenn. (As a side note, Glenn had previously mentioned that ltchee and Scratchie were personal heroes of his and

hoped they would show up there someday.) On to Interstate 80 they drove, the wagon careening side to side the way old farm wagons do. Especially at 68 mph! A short stop at Kersey produced Juli Slim. At Weedville, Rick and Sue climbed aboard. Crossing below I-80 to Irvona and Coalport, they boarded Bill and Russ. Back up to the northern tier country they went, to pick up Mark at Coudersport, Roger and Theresa at Westfield and Randy and the whole Sargent Clan, clean out by Waymart. Next they jumped on 1-81 and skedaddled south.

At the Beavertoe Meadow stop, someone noticed the back tires on the wagon had the third set of cords showing. Itchee being the smooth talker he is, entertained Dick, Ruth and Smoke Bomb Moyer of the Beave1toe Meadow Municipal Authority while a couple of the crew jacked their cars up, took off the tires, and installed them on both the wagon and Jeepster. Itchee and Scratchie were relieved as the new tires had only one layer of chords showing. A quick trip to Jim Thorpe and Tamaqua loaded on Ed, Jay, Joe, Paul, and Rick. Shortly thereafter they hoisted up Don at New Tripoli , and the Spiderman at Birdsboro. It was decided, since they were almost there, to go on down to Conshohocken and pick up the Monison man. He is a good friend of Itchee and Scratchie you know. Heard it from Rob himself. They turned the Jeepster back west and picked up Gail and Bryan at Atglen, Evan at Christiana, Todd at Spring Grove, Rod "Mister Manhole" at Fairfield, Ray and Bany at Arendtsville, Scott of Biglerville fame, Snooks at Mercersburg, Joe and Jeff at Newville, Dave at Shade Gap, Putt at Broad Top City, "Deadeye" Stoltz at Martinsburg, Smokey Shepherd at Schellsburg, Slim down at Hyndman M.A., and Holly at Fishertown. One stop at Cresson loaded up Galen and Big Dirk of Fergason Twp. fame topped off the carrying capacity of the wagon. Needless to say, Steve was a-grinnin when he saw all the cash flow his two pet's drug in on

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PRWA

that wobbly wagon, hang-overs not withstanding. Did I mention about having Bernie Hopbottom from Harrisburgland tied to the roof rack again? This time he was outfitted with a long flexible PVC pipe from his mouth in tlu11 the window to a brown jug. Kept him mellow and incoherent.

Had a big turn-out for the Conference. Weather was balmy to say the least and a lot ofHarrisburgland was in attendance.

One of the first classes Itchee and Scratchie stunk-up, was on distilling water for lab purposes. Barrie Beagle of Houck was the speaker and had twenty-five DR-.002 15.897541-litre stills set up in room BR549 at the Center, as he was having multiple classes each day. Well, knowing the bozo brothers would figure out a way to get into an episode, what happens next should not surprise you.

That night they slipped into the room and stole all the DR-.002 stills and set them up in the patch of woods behind the Conference Center. The two 100 lb. sacks of chikin feed they had to take back for the Squire's chickins was pressed into service as a substitute for corn mash. They had jury-rigged the stills to work for their own purpose and had connived someone (we suspect it was Tim from Pot-a-Call) to hotwire them into the outdoor lighting system for their power source. They now had an illegal 'shine' operation going!

Well, it didn't take too long 'til some of the rural water people recognized the smell of this operation and followed their noses. "Ah, just like home." "These PRWA conferences just keep getting better, PRWA sure knows how to treat us at their conference." "Where did Steve get these guys" were just a few of the remarks bandied about, as people started to drift from the Conference Center to the woodlot. Homebrewed sauce was being dispensed in styrofoam cups stolen from the snack bars. Quite a party was taking shape.

Soon Itchee and Scratchie were getting hungry. A fi re was built and Scratchie retrieved a cast iron Dutch oven from somewhere in the back of the Jeepster. Itchee and his buddy Bernie Hopbottom were busy scrounging up 'stuff' for a stew. They had set to overturning rocks looking for anything that moved, calling it meat. Herb and Schwalmy, the winners of the PRWA sponsored 3-D archery shoot in

Sfvtbt9 1999

The Keystone Tap

September, wouldn't hold for eating bugs so they were soon spooking around in their Rambo suits trying to pot a few squirrels with their bows. Really, have you ever seen them shoot a bow? The squirrels were safe. Itchee and Scratchie soon had a stew made. Seems while everyone was watching the hunters, they slipped off and found a road-kill. Because of the fog in everyone's brain created by the rotgut shine, no one questioned where the stew meat came from. Compliments to the chefs all around.

Now back inside. Due to the popularity of the event unfolding outside, the crowd inside was starting to thin. Some of the more astute PRWA staff members had noticed, so they followed some of the attendees and failed to return also. The training rooms were virtually empty. When the exhibit hall opened and no one showed up, including all of the exhibitors, even sharp Steve became suspicious. "What are the wastewater guys up to now?" he wondered. So he traveled about the Conference Center looking for everyone. While passing a window, he glanced out and did a double take, then rubbed his eyes, almost in disbelief. Outside in the woodlot was his entire conference, in one big hoe-down! Almost a mini-Woodstock, Joel was leading a group in singing Kum-Ba-Yah. Chris was standing naked, except for a trench coat and one high-healed sneaker, holding one of the PRWA umbrellas overhead, doing the wild monkey dance, and laughing like a hyena. Bob had his fishing pole oul and had the line stuck up in an oak tree. The tree was putting up a good fight too, at least all Bob could handle at this point! Kathy, the demure office manager, had just won a chugging contest with the big guy from Shine'ers Pipes-R-Us, and was enjoying having him crawl around on his knees, squealing 1ike a pig, just as the bet they had made stipulated. Dick, the accountant, was sitting on a log, counting all the sticks and pebbles people had paid him for their liquid refreshments. Good as gold, considering his present state. Donna, was using her skills she pickup in college and was rolling cigarettes for the smokers in the group and dishing out the road-kill stew. There seemed to be no end to the line. And Mike, well, he was just looking bemused, staring at the setting sun.

Whoosh! There went Judy, swinging on a grapevine! She has Scratchie under one arm, holding on with the other, just like Tarzan and Jane!

(Continued on page 40)

3 9

The Keystone Tap

40

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~ Ul!.hts to ~~!..- !.bout you

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(ltchee & Scratchie Continued) "Eeeeeeeeee, I finally got me a real man," she

screamed. One could see in the passing thatScratchie's eyes were starting to rotate to the center of his face, and his lone tooth was starting to appear in an alcohol-induced grin. Chuck, Bernie, and Itchee were hanging upside down, from a tree branch, grinning like a couple of opossums, and chanting the Khmer Sutra. Since he was upside down, tobacco juice was running up ltchee's nose.

Panic tore through Steve, and he shuttered in terror. PRWA was ruined! He slumped to his knees, sobbing uncontrollably.

The rest of the Conference went off as planned. However most of the people moved slow, avoided well-lit areas, talked in hushed tones, and consumed copious amounts of water. As a side note that is how Bernie Hopbottom came to be the PRWA-DEP Representative.

So don't be the one to miss the excitement of this year's (1999) Conference as it promises to be even better!

As for the two clowns, they sensed Steve wasn't none too happy so they skedaddled back to Coon Hollow before nightfall. You know, strange things happen in Coon Hollow at night. But that is for another time . .. (J

Sft'Wt9 I 999


...... What Makes A Good Plant Operator?"

by Bob Decker

B eing a good plant operator isn't always easy. Sometimes you must take the side of the underdog or the minority of those you serve. But for the most part, it's a job that operators enjoy and wouldn' t trade. We like to think of our wastewater plant and our municipality as if it were our own.

What makee a good operator?

• Honesty: To have earned the trust from the community you serve and your authority.

• Knowledge: To be competent in operating your plant and collection system. This could be day-to-day or long range planning and operations. To recognize the need to continue your education.

• Passion: To the majority of operators that I know in Pennsylvania, large and small communities alike, by the time you are a certified operator it is in your blood. You have developed an energy for what you do.

• Responsibility: During the good times it is easy to take responsibility for your actions, but in the bad times you need to have broad shoulders.

• Communications: When you are in tough situations sometimes being a good communicator means being a very good listener.

These are just a few of the qualities it takes to be a competent operator. Speaking for myself, I believe that 99.9% of the operat ors across this state

are Good Operators!!!

S~ 1999 41


42

GIS and Wellhead Protection Using a GIS to Protect Drinking Water Supplies in Rural Communities

A ccording to the U .S. Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA),approximately 90 percent of rural communities in the United States depend on groundwater resources for their water supplies. Protection of this finite resource is a critical issue. This is especially true for small rural communities because financial assistance from federal and state oovernments for water treatment facilities is difficult 0

to obtain or is unavailable. Without financial assistance, communities with small, low-income customer bases are realizing that they must develop aggressive programs to protect their water supplies or risk severe financial hardship.

Groundwater protection programs have been common in many European countries since the 1960s and 1970s. In the United States, however, groundwater protection did not receive significant attention until the late 1970s and early 1980s. Many of the first programs were developed in response to a contamination event that affected a community's water supply. For example, the town of Littletown, Mass., initiated one of the first progressive groundwater protection programs in the United States when the bordering town of Acton lost 70 percent of its groundwater supply as a result of organic contamination from industrial development. These early program s began to receive attention as communities and regulatory agencies recognized that the cost of preventing contamination was significantly less than that of water treatment facilities.

During the early and mid-1980s , the EPA promoted the concept of "Wellhead Protection." Wellhead Protection is simply the protection of areas surrounding a well or wellfield supplying a public water system through which contaminants are reasonably likely to move toward and reach the groundwater system supplying the well or wellfield. Wellhead Protection Programs include the following three components: (1) delineation of the extent of

by R. Paul Evans Acer Engineers & Consultants, Inc.

Wellhead Protection Areas (WHPAs), (2) identification of potential sources of contamination, and (3) development of land use controls and management programs to protect the water supply from contaminants within WHPAs.

With the passage of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) amendments of 1986, EPA established a legal framework for Wellhead Protection. However, unlike the case in most EPA programs, the regulations that govern Wellhead Protection did not establish specifically what should or should not be regulated as part of a community's program. Rather, the regulations require each state to develop its own program providing technical guidance for local communities.

Since the passage of the SDWA amendments of 1986, a substantial amount of research and government funding has been invested into the preparation of "how-to-do-it" literature concerning wellhead delineation methods and hydrogeological modeling. Unfortunately, little attention has been paid

FI9Ut6 t

WEllHEAD PRO"!ECTION AREAS tN EARL ANO EAST EAAL TOWNSHIP$. lANCASTER COUNTV. PA

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Figure 2

POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CONTAMINATION IN

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The Keystone Tap

to the problem of how to manage the voluminous amount of information required to implement an effective Wellhead Protection Program. Information needs associated with Wellhead Protection planning include land use analysis, contamination source inventories, matelial storage records, and identification of program violators. Many Wellhead Protection Programs initiated by small communities are never completely developed and effectively implemented because of the cumbersome information management requirements.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are computer software systems combining digital mapping capabilities with data management. As such, GIS is an ideal tool for managing Wellhead Protection Programs. The authors have developed GIS applications for five communities in southeastern Pennsylvania for the administration and management of their Wellhead Protection programs.

Building Wellhead Protection Geographic Information Systems

Lancaster County. The Lancaster County pilot area encompassed Earl and East Earl Townships as well as New Holland and Terre Hill Boroughs. The base map was derived from the U.S. Census Bureau/ U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Topologically Integrated Geographically Encoded Referencing system (TIGER) files. Digitized from USGS maps, TIGER files contain line and descriptive data for roads, water features, railroads, utility pipelines, and physical boundaries. The files were converted to a series of GIS map layers using ARC/INFO running on a SUN workstation. Lockheed Engineering and Sciences Co. analyzed aerial photographs to produce a GIS map layer containing fracture-trace lines.

Three WHPAs were delineated using computer hydrogeological models. WHPAs consisted of three zones (Figure 1). Zone I was the area within a 400-foot radius of a well. Zone II was defined as the area of groundwater contribution to the well and was defined by hydrogeologic models. Zone III was the area of runoff contribution; its boundaries were influenced by topography, particularly watershed boundaries. Size and shape of Zones II and III were influenced by geologic fractures. Where necessary, WHPA boundaries established by the computer model

43

The Keystone Tap

44

were enlarged to include fracture traces. Zoning maps were digitized over the WHPA maps to produce a zoning layer.

Point sources of potential groundwater contamination were the urtit of management (Figures 2-4 ) . Identification of potential sources was accomplished by ground reconnaissance with local officials. Point sources included cemeteries, industiial facilities, landfills, manure pits, quarries, sinkholes, road salt storage facilities, sewage sludge application areas, and underground storage tanks (USTs). Linear sources included railroads and utility pipelines.

Although land use was overwhelmingly agricultural, the historical pattern of settlement resulted in industrial and commercial sites being clustered around and within WHPAs. The most common type of potential source was USTs. Many of these were associated with service stations.

Dover Township, York County. Mapping for the Dover Township pilot program was based on 1:400 scale aerial photography. Horizontal and vertical control was established using the NAVSTAR satellite-based global positioning system (GPS). Use of GPS resulted in a horizontal accuracy of 10 feet and a vertical accuracy of 2.5 feet. Municipal wells were flagged so that they could be accurately located on aerial photographs. The official zoning map was digitized to create a zoning layer. WHPA and tax parcel boundaries were also digitized from existing paper maps into separate GIS map layers. WHPA boundaries, originally drawn on USGS quad maps, were adjusted to the more accurate mapping derived from aerial photographs. This was accomplished by using the GIS software to mathematically "rubber-sheet" the WHPA layer to topographic contours (Figure 5). The resulting computer mapping system contained 50 layers that included roads, water features, topographic contours, major structures, and land cover, as well as wellhead protection overlays. The Dover Township project used tax parcels as the unit of management. Since the existing GIS had a parcel management system, the township's tax parcel database was modified to include fields indicating whether a parcel was in a WHPA and in which zone it was located. Another database was designed to allow the township to keep track of site inspections and permitting and compliance information. Data could be retrieved on the basis of tax parcel ID number, owner name, parcel location, or type of contaminant.

PRWA

Land Use Controls and Management Tools for Wellhead Protection

The GIS overlays of land use, point sources of contamination, and zoning within the WHPAs revealed a wide range of potential threats to the water supply. The municipalities evaluated numerous land

Figure 4

POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CONTAMINATION IN TERRE HILL BOROUGH. PA

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use controls and management programs to be included as part of the Wellhead Protection management programs. These "management tools" included the following: • Down zoning and source prohibitions • Purchase of property and/or development rights • Groundwater monitoring and inspection programs • Public educational programs • Environmental management programs • Contingency and emergency response planning

The municipalities involved in both the eastern Lancaster County and Dover Township projects selected an Overlay Zoning District adopted by a "stand-alone" ordjnance as the mechanism to implement the Wellhead Protection Program. Source prohibitions and design standards were developed to prevent new sources of contamination from locating within the WHPAs. The most stringent source prohibitions were developed for Zone I protection areas, with less-stringent controls for Zone II and Zone III areas. Design standards were developed for facilities that store, process, and/or contain hazardous materials - including USTs, above ground storage tanks and chemical and waste storage areas of commercial and industrial facilities . Included with the design standards were requirements for secondary containment devices.

The source prohibitions and design standards for new facilities were enforced through the existing subdivision and land development review process, involving the cooperation of many municipal agencies. GIS record management programs were developed to assist the municipalities in retaining municipal reviews and correspondence, zoning hearing variances, and other information on each new land development project.

Dover Township expanded the program to include operating standards for existing commercial and industrial facilities continuing operations within the WHPAs. Operating standards were developed to regulate hazardous matetial storage, processing, and waste management. In addition, regulations were also developed to control agricultural operations.

Commercial and industrial facilities within WHPAs were required to obtain operating permits, which establish specific requirements with which facilities must comply to continue operating. The township performs an annual inspection to enforce

SfPt.Ut9 1999

The Keystone Tap_

the requirements of the perrrtit. A GIS database has been developed to keep records on facilities regulated by operating permits, including inspection reports, permit violations, and reported hazardous material spills. Other databases have been developed that include information on the type and amount of hazardous material stored at facilities, including location of hazardous material processing and storage areas, location of USTs, and waste disposal areas.

Benefits of GIS

The most immediate benefit of GIS is high quality mapping. In both the Lancaster County and York County projects, municipalities received updated maps of road and street networks as well as of WHPAs. Dover Township, while already involved in a tax parcel GIS project, obtained improved WHPA maps as existing maps were corrected to newer, more accurate background layers. GIS allows more frequent and less expensive updates to maps than local governments have experienced in the past. Municipalities with their own GIS computer equipment can product ad hoc maps on a daily basis, if necessary.

GIS provides municipalities with tools for creating, maintaining, and updating information for Wellhead Protection Programs. Much of this is a result of traditional database management capabilities built into GIS software.

Dover Township, for example, has an on-site computer system with which to manage the day-today aspects of regulating land use io WHPAs. Township officials are able to identify parcels in WHPAs with uses that are subject to regulation. Tax parcels can be selected from the computer screen using a mouse cursor for display and editi ng of database information. Alternately, parcel records can be retrieved on the basis of key fields such as tax parcel number, owner name, owner address, or parcel location. Inspection data can be maintained and retrieved to track compliance and permitting histories.

The goal is, of course, to prevent groundwater from being contaminated. But, in the event that a well becomes contaminated, GIS provides local governments with powerful spatial analysis tools. GIS can perform database searches on the

(Continues on page 47)

45

The Keystone Tap

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For more information contact: Chip Morrow Charles Morrow & Associates Center Valley, PA

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PRWA

46 Sfvti«<J 1999


Nicholas DeBenedictis (center), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Philadelphia Suburban Corporation, the nation's third-largest investor-owned water utility, was honored recently as Drexel University's 1998 Business Leader of the Year. A 1968 Drexel alumnus, DeBenedictis received the award during a gala luncheon attended by more than 800 Greater Phi ladelphia business and political leaders. The attendance was the largest ever for Drexel's Business Leader of the Year Event. Proceeds wil l establish an endowed scholarship and a room dedicated to DeBenedictis' honor in Drexel's College of Business and Administration. Presenting the award are (l-R) Richard L. Smoot, President and CEO of PNC Bank and co-chair of the event; Dr. Constantine Papakakis, President of Drexel; Dr. Pamela Lewis, Dean of Drexel's College of Business and Administration; and Robert W. Kloss, President and CEO of Provident Mutual Life Insurance Company and co-chair of the event.

(GIS - Continued from page 45) basis of proximity to a well or other features. Thus, if more than one potential source is known to be linked to a specific contaminant, the GIS can be used to nanow the search to sources with poor compliance histories that are within a certain radius of a well. By modifying database queries, officials can quickly zero in on groundwater contamination sources. These capabilities make GIS more powerful and more useful than either maps or computer databases alone. tJ

This article has been reprinted with the permission of R. Paul Evans, of Acer Engineers & Consultants, Inc., of Lancaster; PA.

SfPWt9 1999

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: The authors would like. to thank Joe Lee of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for help in delineating WHPAs. Beth Moore of Lockheed Engineering and Sciences Co. provided fracture trace data for eastern Lancaster County. Funding for the pilot projects was provided by the EPA through DEP. Special thanks are extended to the officials of Dover, Earl, and East Earl Townships and of New Holland and Terre Hill Boroughs.

REFERENCES: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1989. Wellhead Protection Programs: Tools for Local Governments. EPA Publication 440/6-89-002. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1991 . Fracture Trace Analysis for Wellhead Protection Area Delineation East Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. EPA Publication 68-C0-0049. March 1993

47

The Keystone Tap

Corrosion Control Corporation Direct Lab Supply Company

Kennedy & M & H Valve Kravitch Machine Company

Suburban Water Technology, Inc. Uponor ETI Company

PRWA

Godwin Pumps Associate Members Help Support Our Work Let's Support Them!

A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., Inc. A-1 Pipe, Inc. Acer Engineers & Consultants, lncJR. Paul Evans Advance Instruments, Inc. Alfred Benesch & Company Allmax Professional Solutions, Inc. Altech Supply Co American Leak Detection AMS of Skelly & Loy Applied Micro Systems Aqua Dynamic Systems, Inc. Aqua-Tech Atlantic Geoscience Corporation Augustine & Company AUS Consultants Weber, Fick & Wilson Badger Meter Inc. Bankson Engineers, Inc. BCM Engineers, Inc. Bermad Control Valves Bissnuss, Inc. Browns, Hill, Sand & Glass Block Buchart-Horn, Inc. Business Management Systems, Inc. Calciquest, Inc. Carus Chemical Municipal Division Centre Analytical Laboratories, Inc. Charles R. Morrow & Co., Inc. Chemply Division Of E & E (US), Inc. CIM Eastern, Inc. Co-Bank Commercial Fire Hydrant Service Commonwealth Engineering & Technology, Inc. Conrady Consultant Services Continental Computer Specialties Cappella & Associates Corrosion Control Corporation Creative Data Systems, Inc. CSE Corporation D A Fehr, Inc. D.R. Cummings, Inc. Dacar Industries, Inc. David Nelson, Inc. DiMagno Associates, Inc. Direct Lab Supply Co. Dresser Industries, Inc. Eastern Laboratory Services, Ltd. Eckert, Seamans, Cherin & Mellott EDM Consultants, Inc. Edmondson Sales/Jack Williams Eichelbergers, Inc. Entech Engineering, Inc. Envirep, Inc. Environmental Equipment and Service Co. Erdman,Anthony,Assoc., Inc. Exceltec International Corp. Exeter Supply Co., Inc. Fayette Engineering Co., Inc. Ford Meter Box/Don Fierstos Frank Electric Corp. Franklin Miller, Inc. Free-Col Laboratories G. A. Industries Gannett Fleming, Inc./Steve Talian Gatorcam (Radio Detection)

52

Geo Form, Inc. George S. Coyne Chemical Co., Inc. Geoservices, Ltd. Geosource Engineers Gibson-Thomas Engineering Glace Associates, Inc. Godwin Pumps Grundfos Pumps Gwin, Dobson and Foreman, Inc. Hach Company Hawk Creek Lab, Inc. Heath Consultants Hagemann & Wray High, Swartz, Roberts & Seidel Hughes Supply, Inc. Hunt Engineers & Architects Hurco Technologies, Inc. Intact Corporation Iron City Water & Waste, Inc. J. A. Layden Company J. P. Mcelvenny Co., Inc. James M. Cox Co., Inc. Jon L Steenson & Associates Joseph G Pollard Co. Keller Engineers, Inc. Kennedy & M & H Valve Kirkpatrick & Lockhart KLH Engineers, Inc./Eric Tissue Kravitch Machine Co. L. Robert Kimball UB Water Service, Inc. US Water Service South, Inc. Lamotte Chemical Lang Filter Media Larson Design Group, Inc. Layne Christensen Company Lee Supply Co., Inc. Lee-Simpson Associates, Inc. Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc. Linemen's Supply, Inc. Liquid Engineering Corporation LRM, Inc. Mab Paint Co. Main Line Distributors, Inc. Malatesta, Hawke & McKeon LLP Manley Regan Chemicals Maryland Biochemical Co./Sybron Chemicals McNees, Wallace & Nurick Meiser & Earl, Inc. Mette, Evans, & Woodside Michael Baker, Jr., lnc./attn:T. Harmsen Mid Atlantic Pump/Mike Kamenar Mid Atlantic Storage Systems, Inc. Mid Penn Eng. Corp. Mid-State Chemicals Miller Environmental-Avondale Moody & Assoc., Inc. Mueller Co. Natgun Corporation National Road Utility Supply Co. Neilan Engineers, Inc./John Larimer Nittany Geoscience North East Scientific

Northwest Engineering, Inc. PA Infrastructure Investment Auth. PA Water Environment Assn. Parker Brothers Well Drilling, Inc. Pennsylvania One Call System, Inc. Pittsburg Tank & Tower Co., Inc. Pow-A Mole Sales & Service Precision Meters, Inc. Pyrz Water Supply Co. , Inc. Quad Three Group, Inc. R & D Engineering PC Ralph L. Stemler Inc. RDK Engineering, Inc. Reed Manufacturing Co. Regional Planning Technologies, Inc. Rettew Associates, Inc. Rhoads & Sinon/Jens H. Damgaard Riehl Systems Company Riordan Materials Corporation Romac Industries Sal Chemical Co., Inc. Schlumberger Ind. Seewald Labs, Inc. Senate Engineering Co. Sensus Technologies, Inc. Sherwin-Williams Company Sloan Equipment Sales Company Somple Supply, Inc. Spotts, Stevens and McCoy State Pipe Services, Inc. Stiffler, McGraw & Assoc., Inc. Subsurface Technologies Co. Suburban Water Technology, Inc. Susquehanna Fire Equipment Co. TAABS/UBS Tank Industry Consultants, Inc. Terre Hill Concrete Products Texon USA Thackray Supply, Inc. The Sear-Brown Group The Warnick Company, Inc. Therma-Stor Products Thomas, Thomas, Armstrong & Niesen Tnemec Company, Inc. Trench Shoring Services Trombold Equipment Company Trumbull Industries U.S. Filter/Distribution Group U.S. Filter/A. F. Schneider Pipe & Supply Uni-Tec Consulting Engineers Inc. Uponor ETI Co. USA Bluebook Utility Piping Systems Inc. Utility Survey Corp. Victaulic W. C. Weil Co. W. M. Wagner Sales Co, Inc. W.O. Fox Tapping & Welding, Inc. Wale Apparatus Co., Inc. Watermark Environmental Systems WJP Engineers Wm. F. Hill & Associates, Inc. Wooden Plug Co., Inc.

SfVti«9 1999

PRWA

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The Keystone Tap

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We are commifled ta equal oppommity employment . Resumes welcome.

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SfPUH9 1999


R by Steve Krchnavy, Executive Director

ecently I have had the opportunity to attend a few of the public meetings conducted by the State Cer tification Board for Sewage Treatment Plant and Waterworks Operators. At these meetings, I talked with PRWA Members that I have not met over the last 10 years, through On-Site Technical Assistance, PRWA Training

and the Annual Conference. We shared past adventures and discussed the future. We talked about progress and technology and how it has and will effect our lives. We talked about working together to learn how to use technology to our advantage and to not let it be an obstacle. We djscussed training and how the new Certification Act will provide better training opportunities to increase knowledge and promote the professionalism of operators. We talked in positive tones! This made me proud to be associated with such a great group of people, the PRWA Members.

On a foggy ride home, I realized that I am proud that:

• The PRWA Board of Directors has taken a proactive approach to the new Certification Act!

• The PRWA Board has made a commitment to be proactive in the Certification Legislation and Regulation process (this is where we can have the most impact)!

• Our Members are smiling in the face of drought and finding new ways to promote Community Water Conservation Programs!

• PRWA has added new Technical Assistance Programs, and that systems are taking advantage of them!

• PRWA Members are continually striving to learn better ways to produce their product, safe and clean water!

• Small and Rural systems are now becoming leaders in the industry!

• I know so many conscientious people who are dedicated to their systems and their communities!

• Our Associate Members go the extra mile to assist systems with product and service questions and problems.

I am proud to be associated with the Board and Staff at PRWA. In the office or "on the road," their willingness to work on projects to provide more services and benefits to the Membership of PRWA is never ending. Their dedication to technical assistance and training is remarkably unique. I am proud to be a part of PRWA!

=One More Thing . .. Don't miss out on an exceptional training agenda and over $4500

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56

~ ~u~~®[f{] S fi11U~:n1ll®rtiiU The Pennsylvania Rural Water Association is dedicated to providing professional technical support/ certified system training/ reliable and timely information and other valuable benefits to the rural and small water and wastewater systems throughout the Commonwealth.

------------------ cuthere -----------------

SYSTEM MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Name of water utility/municipality/industry/organization

Address

City I State I Zip Code

County

Name of person to receive information

Telephone Fax

Email Address

Please check your system type: _ Water System _ Sewer System _ Dual System (water & sewer)

# Connections: #Taps: Population Served: - - - - -Annual Dues Rates: It Connections or taps

0-150 151-1500 1500-5000 over5000

Single System $200 $350 $500 $700

Dual System $250 $400 $600 $850

Please return this form with payment to: PA Rural Water Association

138 W.. Bishop Street Bellefonte, PA 16823

ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Company Name

Address

City I State I Zip Code

Contact Person

Telephone Fax

Email Address

Website Address

Please circle the category you'd like to be listed under in our PRWA Industry Contact Book:

Accounting/Financial Consulting/Engineers Legal Counsel

Computers/Software Insurance/Retirement Services/Supplies

Please provide a brief description of services or products:

Please return this form with $300 dues payment to:

PA Rural Water Association 138 W.. Bishop Street Bellefonte, PA 16823

S~ /999

PRWA

Your System Membership Benefits Include: •On-Site Technical Assistance visits providing one-on-one solutions to problems • Networking oppornmities with other water and wastewater systems • Formal accredited classroom-training sessions

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• Liaison contact between system opet·ators, DEP, Rural Development, EPA & other governmental agencies • On-Site Technical Assistance to prepare a Wellhead Protection Plan •Smoke Testing Services •l eak detection and Line locating services • Use of technical equipment at no charge (line locators, leak detectors, pH meters)

•Subscription to the quarterly "Keystone Tap" Magazine •On-Site Technical Assistance on surface water intrusion protocol • Discounted rates to the Annual Conference and training seminars •Quarterly mailing of a Membership Informational Packet •Subscription to the National Rural Water Association Magazine •On-Site Technical Assistance related to groundwater problems •System Utility Rate Analysis • Legislative Updates •Quarterly "Members Only" Newsletter • Annual Conference: Multiple training sessions, Live Entertainment, all meals included, gift item •On-Site Water Audit Technical Assistance • Electronic technology allowing you to register for events and access information via Internet and Email (saving time & money)

•Credit Card availability to pay dues, training fees, conference expenses etc. (offering you convenience & expense tracking)

• Increased ntmtbtw ofPRWA Traitling Sessions for 1999 toith new subjects anti tgpics. PRJ~ is toOt·king to put into ,place an Operator CEU tracking system so members call monitm· their op erator's stat11s for mr~intaining their Certification

• Increased Teclmical Assistance and informational resources via PRWA~~ website lllternet littks • Reduced cost-poolit~g ittteritn cOttStmctiott fiuancittg program

Membership dues 11re less thlln $0.68 eents per d4y (based on tbe dues level of a dual system with 1-150 connections)

Which of these amounts would you rather pay?

TO BELONG! ' ~ t1t<Ol\D NOT Yov cAN ·r ~ ...

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0 Operators/Managers 0 Clerk/Treasurer 0Board

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PAID Permit No. 196 Bellefonte, PA

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