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12th Annual EPA, 4-State Governmental Affairs Meeting
4page
10th Annual Joint Conference Highlights
KWEA Scholarship Announcement and 2018 Winners
26page
30page
Winter 2019 | Volume 95 | number 1
Providing clients with quality engineering services and innovative solutions that protect, enhance, re-use, store, and mitigate water.
www.wilsonco.com iruossiM ,ytiC sasnaKsasnaK ,anilaS
For the latest info, visit KWEA online at
www.kwea.net
Table of ConTenTs
1
SPLASHINGS FEATURES
4 10th Annual KWEA / KsAWWA Joint Conference Highlights
5 KWEA Pretreatment Compliance Awards
8 Collection Systems Awards
9 Plant and Biosolids Awards
10 WEF Award Winners
13 Raymond E. Stillwell Award Winner
15 Golden Manhole Society Inducts Three New Members
17 Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers Inductees
18 Fred Eisenbarth Memorial Golf Tournament
19 Environmental Excellence Competition Showcases Fierce Matchup as Event Continues to Grow
21 Backhoe Rodeo Competition Remains a Crowd-Pleaser, Conference Favorite Event
22 First Annual Operator's Challenge a Big Success
23 Fast-Paced Hydrant Hysteria Draws Eight Teams for Competition
24 Meter Madness Brings Heated Competition
25 Laboratory Committee Heads Up Tour at MARS Factory
26 KWEA Scholarship Announcement and 2018 WInners
28 Lovett Steps in as Laboratory Committee Chair, Welcomes Two New Members
30 12th Annual EPA, 4-State Governmental Affairs Meeting
32 Young Professionals Committee Update
34 U.S.EPAOfficeofInspectorGeneralReleasesBiosolidsReport
IN EVERY ISSUE
2 Message From the President
3 Welcome New Members
36 Splashings Advertising
37 KWEAOfficers
38 KWEA Committee Chairs
40 WEF Membership Application
Splashings is published four times each year. We welcome your submissions. The editorial deadline for the next issue is Feb. 15, 2019. Please direct materials to Barry Schmidt at 913-458-3660 or [email protected].
Email address changing?To change your subscription email address or to subscribe to Splashings, contact Tina Leitzel at [email protected].
Thank you to the following for contributing to this issue of Splashings: Ron Thomann, Sylvan Coles, Michael Carter, Alex Darby, Jason Patty, Chris Ramsey, Kevin Waldron, Eric Keagle, Josh Tedder, Jimmy Althouse, Hank Boyer, Jay Lovett, Martha Tasker, Lorrie Hill, Miranda Sloan, Patrick Dube, Barry Schmidt, and Tina Leitzel.
Winter 2019 | Volume 95 | number 1
2
Happy Winter!With another year in the record books, we look forward to the opportunities and challenges that face us in
2019.EnclosedinthiseditionofSplashings,youwillfinddetailedinformationonthe10th Annual KWEA/
KsAWWA Joint Conference held at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka, Kansas. Through the hard work and
dedication of everyone involved, we had a record year for attendance with valuable technical sessions and
great representation from exhibitors.
KWEA is fortunate to have dedicated individuals who are committed to making our annual conference a
greatsuccess.Ihavehadtheopportunityoverthispastyeartoseefirsthandwhatittakestomakeour
organization run and how hard everyone works to make our annual conference a success. I would like to
extend my appreciation to those who sponsored, presented, moderated, exhibited, and attended, and a
special recognition to Sylvan Coles, Dustin Coles, and Tina Leitzel, along with our counterparts at KsAWWA
for their tireless efforts to once again make this past conference a success.
I am extremely honored to be a part of such a great organization that is comprised of talented individuals
who are truly making a difference in the communities in which we work and live. I would also like to take this
opportunity to encourage my fellow “seasoned KWEA members” to seek opportunities to mentor those that
are new to our industry and encourage them to get involved in KWEA.
I am excited for the great things we will accomplish this year through KWEA and look forward to working
with the board and committee chairs. I encourage you to let me know if you have any questions or
suggestions to make our organization better and look forward to hearing from you soon. Enjoy the winter
edition of Splashings!
Ron ThomannKWEA President 2018-2019, [email protected]
3
Welcome NeW members
The membership committee welcomes these new members who have joined KWEA.
Nicholas WillisGuadalupe ArreolaTracy JarrettKahao LimKenneth Compton
Kyle SchmutzlerMatthew HomerArvind Damodara KannanAmanda Boeshart
SPLASHINGS DEADLINES
Spring | Feb. 15, 2019Summer | May 15, 2019Fall | Aug. 15, 2019Winter | Nov. 15, 2019
The 10th Annual KWEA/KsAWWA Joint Conference was held Aug. 28-30 in Topeka, Kansas, at the Capitol Plaza Hotel and was once again a great success. Conference attendance was 850 over the three-day period along with 84 vendors in the exhibit hall. All attendees and exhibitors received a survey following the conference providing valuable input and feedback that will help us to make the 2019 joint conference even better.
The conference kicked off Monday with the annual golf tournament and sporting clays competition helping to support our scholarship fund. Tuesday morning welcomed the attendees who were entertained by the keynote speaker, Kent Rader, who works with organizations teaching them how humor and laughter can be utilized as an effective business tool. Attendees were also informed on WEF issues by WEF representative Steve
10th Annual KWEA / KsAWWA Joint Conference Highlights
by Ron Thomann, KWEA President
Dye. Tuesday’s activities concluded at the Topeka Civic Center where attendees were treated to dinner and entertainment provided by the comedy troupe Laugh Lines. Congratulations to the award winners and those being recognized for various achievements. The conference wrapped up Thursday afternoon and was followed by KDHE water and wastewater operators and ABC testing.
The following pages capture some of the great moments of the three-day event.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!Join us Aug. 27-29 at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka, Kansas, for the 2019 joint conference.
www.kswaterwastewater.com
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KWEA Pretreatment Compliance Awards
by Michael Carter, KWEA Industrial Committee Chair
The KWEA Industrial Committee is proud to recognize those industries in Kansas who have achieved the highest levels of performance in meeting the pretreatment compliance criteria within their respective communities.
KWEA congratulates the four platinum, 102 gold, and 11 silver awardees, as well as their respective city or county industrial pretreatment programs for the environmental stewardship these businesses and their pretreatment coordinators exhibit.
Platinum AwardsPlatinum awards are presented to those that:
Have100%compliancewithalldischargerequirementsforfivecontinuous years;
Have zero late or incomplete report submittals;
Exhibit an exemplary working relationship with their local pretreatment
coordinator; and
Have initiated at least one pro-active pretreatment-related initiative
duringthefive-yearperiod.
HUTCHINSONKUHN Krause, Inc.Lowen Corporation - 14th Street Lowen Corporation - Airport
WICHITAColeman Company, Inc.
Gold AwardsGold awards are presented to those that:
Have at least 95% compliance with all discharge requirements;
Exhibit a good working relationship with their local pretreatment
coordinator;
Areproficientinreportsubmittalrequirements;and
Routinely demonstrate exemplary environmental stewardship.
HUTCHINSONTyson Prepared Foods
INDEPENDENCETextron Aviation Independence Standard Motor Products Independence
JOHNSON COUNTYHeartland Precision Fasteners, Inc.InficonEDC,Inc.Kerry, Inc.Kocher + Beck USA, LPLenexa WWTP, LLCSAFC Biosciences, Inc. Sparhawk LaboratoriesTapco Products CompanyUniversal Engraving, Inc.
OLATHEExxonMobil
SALINABergkamp, Inc.Coperion K-Tron Salina, Inc.Exide Technologies, Inc.Exline Leasing, Inc.GE Oil & Gas Systems, LLCGrain Belt Supply Co., Inc.Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.KASA Fab, Inc.Philips Lighting CompanyRamaco, Inc.Schwan's Global Supply Chain, Inc.Valmont Salina Galvanizing, Inc.
TOPEKA AmeriPride ServicesBig Heart Pet BrandsBNSF RailwaysCrosswind Petfoods - ADM NutritionCustom Cabinet and RackDelta DesignsErnest - Spencer MetalsFrito Lay - TopekaMars Wrigley ConfectioneryPTMWReser's Fine Foods - Wastewater Treatment ComplexSteel Fixtures
UNIFIED GOVERNMENT OF WYANDOTTE COUNTY & KANSAS CITY, KSBNSF Railway - Kansas City, KSDarling IngredientsExcel Linen Supply 5
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Exide TechnologiesExxonMobilFaultless Healthcare LinenFordyce Concrete CompanyGeneral Motors LLCHinckley Springs - Kansas City PlantHospital Linen ServicesK.C. Abrasive Company, LLCKansas City Treats, LLCKansas SpeedwayKeebler CompanyLegacy Technologies LLCLiquid Environmental Solutions, LLC (Categorical)Liquid Environmental Solutions, LLC (Grease)Magellan Pipeline Company, L.P. (Donovan Rd)Magellan Pipeline Company, L.P. (Sunshine Rd)Owens Corning Insulating Systems (OCIS), LLCPBI-GordonPENTAIR - Kansas City OperationPQ CorporationPro-Pet, LLCProvidence Medical CenterThe Hillshire Brands CompanyUniversity of Kansas Medical CenterVVF Kansas Services, LLCZ W Tech, LLC
WICHITA3P Processing, Inc. Apex Engineering International, LLC. Beechcraft CorporationBEPC-Thimesch Enterprises, LLC.Center Industries CorporationCessna Aircraft Company- Experimental FacilityCessna Aircraft Company- Mid Continent FacilityCessna Aircraft Company- Pawnee FacilityChemical Waste Management, Inc.Cintas CorporationCNH America, LLC.Darling Ingredients, Inc.DiversifiedServices,Inc.Dold Foods, LLC.Figeac Aero North America, Inc.Globe Engineering Company, Inc.Harlow Aerostructures, LLC.Harper Trucks, Inc.Hiland Dairy Foods, LLC.InfiniTechSurfaceFinishingJR Custom Metal Products, Inc. Linen King McConnell Air Force BaseMetal Finishing Co. Inc.
Paragon Services, Inc.Paragon Services, Inc. - Site 2Pepsi Beverages CompanyPowderTech, LLC.Pratt Industries SmithfieldPackagedMeatsCorp.-Wichita,KsSpirit AeroSystems, Inc.UniFirst CorporationVia Christi Hospital-St. Francis Via Christi Hospital-St. JosephWichita Brooks LFGWichita Truck and Tank Wash
Silver AwardsSilver awards are presented to those that:
Have at least 85% compliance with all discharge requirements;
Exhibit a good working relationship with their local pretreatment
coordinator;
Areproficientinreportsubmittalrequirements;and
Routinely demonstrate good environmental stewardship.
HUTCHINSONDillon Stores
JOHNSON COUNTYCFS West Holdings, Inc.Flowers Baking Company of Lenexa, LLCTED Manufacturing Corporation
LAWRENCE Schlumberger Technology Corporation
UNIFIED GOVERNMENT OF WYANDOTTE COUNTY & KANSAS CITY, KS Fuchs Lubricants Co.Procter and Gamble Mfg. Co.Stericycle - Kansas City
WICHITACargill, Inc.PetroChoice Dynamo, LLC.Wesley Medical Center
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3.5 Million Safe Workhours
24 Years Without
a Lost Time Incident
casconstructors.com // 785.354.9953
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Collection Systems Awards
by Alex Darby, KWEA Collection Systems Vice Chair
Each year, the KWEA Collection Systems Committee solicits nominations for the annual collection systems awards. These awards are presented to collection systemsforoutstandingandsignificantcontributioninthe area of wastewater collection.
Submission are evaluated against similar-sized communities based upon mile of collection system and evaluated based on ranking of the following criteria:
Operation, maintenance, safety, training, system improvements,
Innovative ideas, system wide planning, and service
Documentation and supporting information detailing the contribution
Recommendation made by the KWEA Collection Systems Committee
Category I(50 miles or less of collection system)
Bonner Springs submitted another strong application this year and was awarded the 2018 Collection System Award for Category I. Bonner Springs started construction on its collection system in the 1930s. Since then, the system has grown to approximately 47 miles ofgravitysewerwithanaveragedailyflowof0.6MGD.The system is staffed by three full-time employees that areallABCcollectionsystemcertified.
Category II(Between 50 and 250 miles of collection system)
The Category II Collection System Award for 2018 was presented to the City of Ottawa. The Ottawa collection system consists of approximately 61 miles of gravity sewer and 10 lift stations. The City has worked to replace approximately 650 LF of old sewer each year. As part ofanoverallinflowandinfiltrationprogram,theCityhascleaned approximately 40,000 LF of gravity sewer each year and inspected about 15,000 LF of sewer by CCTV. Through the dedication of the collections system staff, the systemcontinuestooperateefficientlyyearafteryear.
Category III(Greater than 250 miles of collection system)
This year we had two very strong applications for the Category III award. Johnson County Wastewater (JCW) and the City of Olathe went head-to-head and ended in a tie. So, for 2018, two Category 3 Collection System Awards were presented, one to the City of Olathe and the other to JCW.
The City of Olathe maintains approximately 417 miles ofgravitysewerwithanaveragedailyflowof10MGD.With a staff of 19 employees, the City is able to clean approximately 881,000 LF of sewer and inspect about 291,000 LF of sewer with CCTV each year. With an annual budget of $2.7 million, the City is able to minimize the total number of line blockages and sanitary seweroverflows.
JCWcontinuestoefficientlyoperateoneofthelargestwastewater systems in the state. They maintain approximately 2,250 miles of gravity collection system with over 58,000 manholes. They do all of this with an annual budget of $5.8 million. With that budget and a staff of 60 employees, they are able to clean over 2.5 million LF of sewer and CCTV over 765,600 LF of line each year. JCW has a robust asset management system,whichallowsthemtoefficientlydirectfundsto the areas with the highest need and greatest consequence of failure.
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KWEA's Plant Operations and Maintenance Committee presented the following plant and biosolids awards at the annual joint conference.
Plant AwardsPlant awards are presented to municipalities for recognition of those plant operators who have done an outstanding job of plant operation and maintenance. Award winners are selected based on plant performance, completeness of plant records and files,stateofplantmaintenance,maintenancerecords,schedules and programs, and the general appearance of plant and grounds.
A nomination and a tour by a group of wastewater professionals were used to select the following winners this year:
CLASS III – City of Holton Wastewater Treatment PlantCLASS IV – City of GardnerCLASS V – City of Topeka
This year, one plant was also recognized for a Biosolids Management Award. This award may be obtained by a community that has an excellent biosolids management program that includes, but may not be limited to, compliance with regulations, great record keeping, public acceptance, proactive public relations, impacts on community, long term planning, cost reduction initiatives, personnelqualifications,enduserrelationships,andsafety. This year, the following recipient received this notable award:
BIOSOLIDS AWARD City of Topeka – Water Pollution Control Division Residuals Management Program
Plants and Biosolids Awards
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WEF Award Winners
Susan Pekarek, KWEA president, and Steve Dye, WEF legislative director, presented the following WEF awards at the annual conference awards banquet.
Arthur Sidney Bedell AwardThe Arthur Sidney Bedell Award was established in 1948 by WEF to acknowledge extraordinary personal service to a member association. The award is named for Arthur Sidney Bedell, the second president of the federation, whoexemplifieditspurposebyhislongdevotionandservice to the New York Sewage and Industrial Wastes Association, now the New York Environment Association. Bedell was chief of the Bureau of Sewage and Waste Disposal of the New York State Department of Health. Qualificationfortheawardisbasedonorganizationleadership, administrative service, membership activity, and stimulation of technical functions.
KWEA congratulates 2018 recipient of the Arthur Sidney Bedell Award, Susan Pekarek.
Pekarek is a 1997 graduate of Kansas State University with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in civil engineering. Shortly after graduating, she began her professional career as an environmental engineer with Burns & McDonnell Engineers where she worked
for four years before joining Johnson County as a managing engineer in the Engineering and Operations & Maintenance Divisions. As managing engineer, she assisted with three major wastewater treatment plant expansions totalling over a $100 million.
From 2013 to 2016, Pekarek served as chief engineer where she was responsible for the oversight of the Asset Management, Planning & Public Projects Division.
In 2016, she was named general manager of Johnson County Wastewater, a role in which she has demonstrated leadership, knowledge, professionalism, and hard work - all qualities her colleagues here at KWEA are very familiar with.
William D. Hatfield AwardTheWilliamD.HatfieldAwardrecognizesoutstandingtreatment plant operators. It was established by the Water Pollution Control Federation of 1946, and now honors each year exceptional operators of wastewater treatment works throughout the world.
The award was established in honor of Dr. William D. Hatfield,superintendentoftheDecatur,Illinois,Sanitary
Arthur Sidney Bedell Award ─ Susan Pekarek (pictured with Steve Dye)
William D. Hatfield Award ─ Gerald Grant (pictured with Susan Pekarek and Steve Dye)
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District, who was president of the Central States Sewage Works Association (1944-45) and served as president of the Water Environment Federation (1958-59).
KWEA recognizes the author of Lumpy Water Math, Jerry Grant, as the 2018 recipient of the William D. HatfieldAward.
Grant graduated from Fort Hays State University in 1974 with a degree in chemistry. In 1980, he became a licensed professional engineer. He served as a KDHE district engineer in the Hays and Wichita Districts before becoming chief of the Technical Services Section, Bureau of Water. Since Grant’s retirement from KDHE in 1997, he has worked as an adjunct instructor for the Fort Scott Community College in their Environmental Water Technology program where he has taught courses and workshops in water treatment, distribution, wastewater treatment, collections, safety, andinbackflowpreventionandcontrol.Healsoservedas a 104 Outreach Program trainer where he helped rescue troubled wastewater treatment facilities from compliance issues.
Over his forty-year career, Grant has been an operator in every sense of the word and has been a big part of KWEA, donating countless hours as an instructor at our conferences.
Laboratory Analyst Excellence AwardThe Water Environment Federation Board of Directors established this award in 1993 to recognize individuals for outstanding performance, professionalism, and contributions to the water quality analysis profession.
The 2018 recipient of the Laboratory Analyst Award is Ron McClure, City of El Dorado.
Criteria for the award are as follows:
Must be a member of the Water Environment Federation
Candidate must be employed at an educational facility laboratory,
industrial, commercial, or municipal laboratory which performs
wastewater-related analysis, and must have direct analytical
responsibilities
Candidates are eligible for this award only once
Membership and involvement in professional associations. Examples:
Water Environment Federation Committees, Standard Methods
Joint Task Groups, MA committees and conferences and conference
activities
Outstanding efforts in the area of wastewater and environmental
aquatic analysis, including such items as innovative sampling
techniques or solutions to a treatment, analytical or environmental
problem
Involvement in community activities or public relations
Presentations at professional conferences, meetings, etc. relevant to
water quality analysis
Professionalcertifications
Continuing education
Contributionsthathavebeenbeneficialtothenominee’sfacility
Unusual initiative or performance, beyond the call of duty
Labatory Analyst Excellence Award ─ Ron McClure (pictured with Susan Pekarek and Steve Dye)
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Quarter Century Operators ClubThe Quarter Century Operators Club is an informal group composed of operators engaged in wastewater treatment plant operation for at least 25 years. The club was created under the sponsorship of Frank Woodbury Jones, who served as its registrar. Candidates for membership in the Quarter Century Operators Club must be a member of WEF and KWEA or a recognized operator’sassociationforatleastfiveyearspriortonomination. KWEA is proud to welcome the following individuals to the club in 2018:
Kurt Bookout, City of El Dorado
Dustin Coles, City of Topeka
JeffGraham,CityofWinfield
Randall Harris, City of Park City
Richard Martinez, City of Topeka
Nicholas Ortiz, City of Topeka
Becky Roeckers, City of Topeka
Jeffrey Rogers, City of Topeka
Quarter Century Operators ─ Kurt Bookout, Jeff Graham, and Dustin Coles (pictured with Susan Pekarek and Steve Dye)
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Raymond E. Stillwell Award Winner
by Chris Ramsey, KWEA President-Elect
Raymond E. Stillwell Award ─ Aaron Witt (pictured with Susan Pekarek and Laura Gray)
The Raymond E. Stillwell Award recognizes outstanding efforts in the operation, maintenance, management, or design of a wastewater collection system, and in the individual's commitment of KWEA and all its related activities.
This year’s award winner is Aaron Witt. Witt holds a B.S. in civil engineering and an M.S. in environmental engineering, both from the University of Kansas. He is a registered professional engineer in both Kansas and Missouri.
Witt currently serves as the chief engineer at Johnson County Wastewater (JCW). As chief engineer, Witt oversees engineering services and standards, asset management and capital improvement programs, and the sewer district creation process.
Witt has been with JCW for 18 years. Before being appointed chief engineer, Witt served seven years as a collection systems engineer and nine years as the engineering manager of Existing Infrastructure Group. As the engineering manager of the Existing Infrastructure Group, Witt lead 13 engineering and O&M support staff members and oversaw the planning, design, and construction of capital improvement projects of up to $90 million per year, including the Tomahawk Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion Project.
Before joining JCW, Witt worked seven years for Black & Veatch in Kansas City, Missouri.
Throughout his career, Witt has been actively involved in the WEF Collection System Committees at both the state and national level. On the National Collection Systems Committee, he has served on the Strategic Planning Committee and has been the vice-chair of the Task Force which prepared the 2016 WEF Special Publication titled “PrivatePropertyInfiltrationandInflowControl.”Wittwasthe Lead Author of Chapter 5 - Case Studies.
Witt has authored or co-authored 14 publications and presentations spanning from 1995 to 2017.
Witt is a member of Kansas and National Golden Manhole Societies.
Believe it or not, Witt also has time for a personal life. He is married to his wife, Heather and is the proud father of two sons: Jack who’s in eighth grade and Cole who’s in sixth grade. When not attending football or basketball games, Witt like to play golf.
Please congratulate a proud product of Fort Scott, Kansas, Aaron Witt, the 2018 Raymond E. Stillwell Award winner.
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CONFERENCE PHOTOSDid you receive an award at the 2018 joint annual conference? Participate in a competition? Check out the conference photo gallery now available online!
https://photos.kswaterwastewater.com
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Golden Manhole Society Inducts Three New Members
by Chris Ramsey, KWEA President-Elect
DAVID HAMBERLIN, TREKK DESIGN GROUPThefirstinducteeintotheGoldenManholeSocietyprovidesoversightofallfieldservicesoperationsforanengineeringfirmthatoperatesthroughouttheMidwest.He specializes in cleaning and CCTV projects but is also experienced in project management for projects that involve SSES investigations, CSO investigations, andfieldwork.Hehasexperienceinallphasesofcollectionsystemfieldevaluationsandbeeninvolvedon more than 375 sewer projects throughout the U.S.
HeisaNASSCO-certifiedTrainerforLACP,MACP,andPACP. He has taught NASSCO classes for numerous clients,includingtheCityofKansasCity,Missouri;UnifiedGovernment of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas; Johnson County Wastewater; Lenexa and Olathe, Kansas; Omaha, Nebraska; Danville, Illinois; Rapid City, South Dakota; the City of Memphis, Tennessee, and Memphis SARP 10 Program members. He is also a member of NASSCO’s national Infrastructure Condition Assessment and Cross Bore committees.
Please congratulate David Hamberlin of TREKK Design Group for being selected as a KWEA Golden Manhole Award winner.
KEVIN SWEARENGIN, UNIFIED GOVERNMENT OF WYANDOTTE COUNTY / KCK
Our second inductee into the Golden Manhole Society hasworkedinthewastewaterfieldforover30years.HepreviouslyworkedfortheCityofSpringfield,Missouri,andiscurrentlyemployedwiththeUnifiedGovernment of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas, as the manager of the collections system. He has been a member of WEF since 1993, is actively involved with the KWEA Collections System Committee, and is a past recipient of the MWEA Golden Manhole and Collections System Operator of the Year. He has been a champion of collection system maintenance throughout his career and provides leadership and guidance to the collections system staff withtheUnifiedGovernment.Heisagreatresource,always willing to provide his input and assistance
Golden Manhole Society Inductees ─Kevin Swearengin and David Hamberlin (pictured with Laura Gray and Timothy Schneller)
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when needed and is a valuable asset to the KWEA Collection System Committee.
PleasecongratulateKevinSwearenginoftheUnifiedGovernment for being selected as a KWEA Golden Manhole Award winner.
KURT WINTERS, UNIFIED GOVERNMENT OF WYANDOTTE COUNTY / KCK
OurfinalinducteeintotheGoldenManholeSocietyhasover 30 years of experience in the water/wastewater industry including over 20 years in management and leadership. He has a B.S. in environmental studies from the University of Kansas. He holds a class IV Kansas wastewater treatment facility operator license and a class IV Kansas wastewater collection system certification.HeisamemberofWEFandKWEA.HeiscurrentlyemployedwiththeUnifiedGovernmentof Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas, as the Director of Water Pollution Control, overseeing all aspects of treatment and collections. He was the former director for Johnson County Wastewater in a similar capacity as the director of operations and maintenance. Through his guidance and leadership, treatment plants have been recognized for excellence
Golden Manhole Society Inductee Kurt Winters
through the NACWA Peak Performance Awards winning platinum, gold, and silver, for over eight years. In addition, the collections systems under his guidance have been recognized as some of the best in the state of Kansas being awarded multiple KWEA Collection Systems Awards over an extended period of time.
PleasecongratulateKurtWintersoftheUnifiedGovernment for being selected as a KWEA Golden Manhole Award winner.
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We offer you a world of expertise, with value for today and foresight for tomorrow, for all your unique water challenges.
Kansas City 913-458-2000 or visit bv.com to learn more.
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Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers Inductees
SSSSS Inductees ─Dale South, Richard Ludowese, Rodney Geisler, Heather Phillips, and Steve Dye (pictured with co-pH7s Dustin Coles and Tina Leitzel and past inductee Susan Pekarek)
The Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers originated to encourage members to “get involved.” Based on merit, individuals are selected to join the society. It has long been argued as to which group createdthefirstgroup.PennsylvaniastartedtheHighHat Society in 1937; it used the words “Sludge Shovelers Society” in its initiation ceremony and later became known as the Ted Moses Sludge Shovelers Society. The Arizona Association documents its history from October 1940, when the idea was conceived by A.W. (Dusty) Miller and F. Carlyle Roberts, Jr. “to recognize the fact that many members do not receive the coveted Bedell Award, the Fuller Award (of AWWA), or become an Arizona Association president, but nevertheless contribute in some outstanding measure.”
Regardless of the founding, the SSSSS society recognizes members for their outstanding, meritorious service above and beyond the call of duty. Each new inducteeisawardedabadge(shovel)andacertificate.
2018 SSSSS Inductees
Richard Ludowese, CCUA
Rodney Geisler, KDHE
Heather Phillips, City of Olathe
Steve Dye, WEF Legislative Director
A special thanks goes out to all of our current members and to our newly inducted members who participated in the ceremony.
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The 2018 Fred Eisenbarth Memorial Golf Tournament saw another great day of golf and fundraising for scholarships.Afieldof54playerson14teamsenjoyedthe beautiful Firekeeper Golf Course. KWEA offers many thanks to our sponsors and participants who raised over $1,000 for the scholarship fund. This annual conference golf tournament is held in memory of the longtime tournament coordinator, Fred Eisenbarth.
A FlightFIRST PLACE Jim Epp, Don Grey, Andrew Hansen, Mike Orth
SECOND PLACEDoug Allen, Mitch Hoffman, Scott Mullholland, Charlie Suchy
B FlightFIRST PLACEGus Collins, Jeff Graham, Clint Gregor, Dale South
SECOND PLACEDustin Coles, Joel Jirak, Scott Phillips, Kevin Waldron
Hole PrizesLongest Putt – Jeff GrahamClosest to Pin (Hole #2) – Bob NelsonClosest to Pin (Hole #3) – Kent MillerLongest Drive (Hole #11) – Kevin WaldronClosest Second Shot – Joe Rile
Fred Eisenbarth Memorial Golf Tournament
by Kevin Waldron, Olsson & Associates
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A total of six teams competed in this year’s Environmental Excellence Competition, as the event continues to grow. Screens displaying the questions and a live scoreboard kept spectators more engaged than in previous years. The competition is a mix between a scholar’s bowl and Jeopardy-type format. During the preliminary round, each team is given the chance to answer the questions presented, and they are then awarded points for correct answers and deducted points for wrong answers. Each team is allowed to confer and present an answer on a dry-erase board. The team then shows their answer to the judges after the allotted time for the question has passed.
Final rounds are in a tournament format which consists of toss-up questions for either team to answer. The team thatbuzzesinfirsthas10secondstogiveananswer.In
the event the team fails to answer, or is wrong, the other team is given a chance to answer the question. These tend to be pretty exciting rounds as it comes down to who is quickest on the buzzer.
ThefirstplaceteamwillbeattendingtheNationalAWWAConference this coming June to compete in the Top Ops Competition against the other sectional winners.
This year’s competition was full of new competitors and spectators and was one of the best turnouts in the last few years.
Thank you to all of the competitors, judges, attendees and anyone else who helped with making this a fun, exciting and enjoyable event. We hope to see you all again next year.
1ST PLACE – SHADE BALLAndrew Burkhart
Nic Caruthers
Meredith Fultenstein
Daniel Whitmore
2ND PLACE – BRUCE'S MISFITSBrooke Conrardy
Phillip Cooper
Glen Holz
Jason Patty
3RD PLACE – OZONATORSJames DePriest
Lyndon Kern
Dale South
Brandon Thomas
Environmental Excellence Competition Showcases Fierce Matchup as Event Continues to Grow
by Eric Keagle, R.E. Pedrotti Co., Inc.
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1st Place: Shade Ball – Daniel Whitmore, Nic Caruthers, Andrew Burkhart, Meredith Fultenstein
2nd Place: Bruce's Misfits – Glen Holz, Phillip Cooper, Brooke Conrardy, Jason Patty
3rd Place: Ozonators – Brandon Thomas, Dale South, James DePriest, Lyndon Kern
Judges: Clint Gregor, Jake White, Jeff Graham
Moderator: Eric Keagle Judges: Jeff Graham, Rod Philo, Mike Younger
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ConferenCe HigHligHts
This year’s backhoe rodeo competition had 10 entries. Theeventteststheskillsandproficiencyofequipmentoperators through a series of obstacles and challenging tasks where they are timed and judged on their performance. The competition is designed for operators to showcase their talent and bring awareness to the type of skills needed on a daily basis working in the water distributionandwastecollectionfield.
Times for this year’s competition ranged from 1.64 minutes to 43 seconds.
Always a crowd-pleaser, this competition showcases some of the best operators in Kansas.
2018 WINNERS1st Place – Alex Schell, City of Topeka – 43 seconds
2nd Place – Matt Fund, City of Topeka – 48 seconds
3rd Place – Jim Fincham, City of Topeka – 49 seconds
Backhoe Rodeo Competition Remains a Crowd-Pleaser, Conference Favorite Event
21
ConferenCe HigHligHts
First Annual Operator's Challenge a Big Success
by Josh Tedder, Black & Veatch
Operators from across Kansas stepped up to the plate to competeinthefirstannualOperator’sChallengeattheKWEA & KsAWWA Joint Conference in Topeka, Kansas. Each competitor came to show off their skills, compete for their community, and demonstrate their commitment and passion for the wastewater industry.
Each operator and some engineering staff competed in a typical line repair task encountered by operators in the fieldoncollectionsystems.Inthefirstyear,therewere24 participants who competed for prizes ranging from $250forfirstplace,$150forsecondplace,$50forthirdplace,and$25forfourthandfifthplaceineachdivision.The winner of each division was also awarded with a traveling trophy to display at their headquarters, an individual trophy to take home, and bragging rights for the next year. The fastest overall time, won by Johnson County Wastewater’s own Jason Kaske, also received an extra $25 gift card.
Overall, the challenge was a big success, and contestants had a lot of fun in the head-to-head competition. Stay tuned for next year’s Operator’s Challenge!
Category I (Less than 50 miles of pipe)
1st Place – Steve Garcia, City of Bonner Springs (3:06) 2nd Place – Laura Munro, City of Bonner Springs (3:09)
Category III(Greater than 250 miles of pipe)
1st Place – Jason Kaske, JCW (2:08) 2nd Place – Austin Erwin, JCW (2:10) 3rd Place – Jim Vincent, City of Topeka (3:02) 4th Place – Mark Vincent, City of Topeka (3:08) 5th Place – Tim Martin, City of Topeka (3:12)
Steve Garcia, CIty of Bonner Springs, is presented his first place award at a city council meeting
Roman Rodriguez III, City of Olathe 22
ConferenCe HigHligHts
Hydrant Hysteria is a fast-paced competition in whichtwo-memberteamsassembleafirehydrantas quickly as possible. The competition is a timed event that measures the team skills at assembling a firehydrantquickly,totally,andaccurately.Allpartsmust be assembled in the proper manner, and the reassembled hydrant is tested by the judges to ensure they operate correctly.
This year’s competition held at the KWEA/KsAWWA WaterandWastewaterConferencewasthefirstqualifying event. Eight teams from City of Salina,
Fast-Paced Hydrant Hysteria Draws Eight Teams for Competition
by Jimmy Althouse, City of Olathe
Competition coordinator Jimmy Althouse with winners from WaterOne’s “Hydrants with Attitude” team
City of Olathe, WaterOne, and Kansas Board of Public Utilities competed.
Team “Hydrants with Attitude” (Ethan Smith and Tyler NicklefromWaterOne)tookfirstplaceandwillbecompeting at ACE 19 in Denver, Colorado, next year.
We want to thank M&H Valve Company for sponsoring the competition this year.
23
ConferenCe HigHligHts
The Meter Madness Contest at the 10th Annual KWEA / KsAWWA Joint Conference was as heated as always. Therewerefiveentries.Eachentrywastoassemblea water meter that worked from parts in a bucket while their time was recorded. Each contestant was afforded two chances to record their best time. Times ranged from 2:50.5 minutes to 1:22.4 minutes.
After everyone had their second chance to better their time, the following were declared winners of the 2018 Meter Madness Contest.
1ST PLACEManuel Ledesma, KCK BPU – 1:22.4 minute
2ND PLACEMichael Hamman, WaterOne – 1:31.2 minute
3RD PLACEValerie McCord, WaterOne – 1:32.9 minute
This year the winners were given a plaque and a gift certificate.Firstplacereceived$100,secondplace$50,and third place $25.
Beginningin2019,theMeterMadnessfirstplacewinnerwill receive compensation from KsAWWA to attend ACE19 and compete at the national competition
Congratulations to everyone who participated!
Meter Madness Brings Heated Competition
by Hank Boyer, KsAWWA Section Manager
1st Place: Manuel Ledesma with competition sponsor John Daugherty
2nd Place: Michael Hamman with competition sponsor John Daugherty
3rd Place: Valerie McCord with competition sponsor John Daugherty
24
ConferenCe HigHligHts
Laboratory Committee Heads Up Tour at MARS Factory
by Jay Lovett, Laboratory Committee Chair
This year's joint conference laboratory tour took place at the MARS factory just outside of Topeka, Kansas. Twenty individuals had the opportunity to visit the production and pretreatment areas of the MARS factory. The group enjoyed sampling "naked" candy bars (absent of covering chocolate) and fresh roasted peanut M&Ms.
Stay tuned for future special conference events hosted by the KWEA Laboratory Committee.
25
ConferenCe HigHligHts
KWEA is preparing for its eighteenth year of offering scholarships for university students wishing to pursue acareerinenvironmentalareasaswellasfinancialassistance for training in environmental vocational technical areas.
The scholarships offered are based on proceeds from the KWEA golf tournament, individual donations (mainly from donations received at the SSSSS breakfast and the two luncheons), and interest income from the scholarship endowment.
With board support and approval, KWEA will be offering inthe2018-2019fiscalyearupto$3,950inscholarshipsandfinancialassistancetoKansasstudents.
The following awards are planned to be made available in 2018:
Three university scholarships in the amounts of $1,200, $1,000, and
$750; and
Up to $1,000 set aside for any amount up to $500 of assistance requested for technical school students.
Call for ScholarshipsUniversity applications are currently being solicited, and applications will be accepted until March 29, 2019. Applicationsforvo-techwastewatertrainingfinancialassistance can be submitted for consideration anytime throughout the year.
Ready to Apply? Need More Info?To apply online, visit http://kwea.net/scholarships.html and choose either university scholarship or vo-tech assistance. For any questions, please contact:
Martha Tasker
(785) 309-5725
The Scholarship Committee selected three students to receive scholarships totaling $2,950. One $1,200 Shirley Coles Memorial University Scholarship, one $1,000, and one $750 University Scholarship were awarded.
SHIRLEY COLES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP A $1,200 Shirley Coles Memorial University Scholarship was awarded to Ian Fannin-Hughes. He graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in geography and environmental science and a minor in biology. He will be continuing his education at the University of Kansas by working toward a master’s degree in environmental assessment and public administration.
Extracurricular Activities
Mid-America Regional Council Water Quality Eduction Committee
Kansas City Native Plant Initiative (KCNPI)
KCNPI Small Landscapes Group
Johnson County Stormwater Management Program
Overland Park Environmental Advisory Committee
Fannin-Hugheshasworkedextensivelyinthefieldofenvironmental science, assisting at several capacities in Kansas and Alaska with agricultural research,
Scholarship Winners ─Dylan Osterhaus and Ian Fannin-Hughes (pictured with Becky Lewis)
KWEA Scholarship Announcement and 2018 Winners
by Martha Tasker, Scholarship Committee Chair
26
ScholarShipS
ecological restoration, climate change research and conservation biology. He obtained expertise in environmental regulation, research methodology, and myriad of study designs as a Biologist-in-Charge of terrestrial and aquatic studies across the United States. Fannin-Hughes' experience also includes a position with KDHE as an environmental scientist and state regulator where he honed his expertise in environmental policy, regulation, nutrient and soil science, and watershed management. Following his work as a state regulator, he is currently working for the City of Overland Park where he oversees all environmental compliance, permitting, projects, education, and sustainability programs.
Fannin-Hughes' goals are to protect and preserve the environment for the health and survival of future generations by helping those in need while protecting the environment. He is pursuing sub-topics of environmental justice and public administration so that he might better help communities more affected by environmental degradation and injustices.
UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPA $1,000 university scholarship was awarded to Victoria Saunders Thomas, a junior at Kansas State University majoring in biological systems engineering, environmental emphasis, and Spanish.
Extracurricular Activities
Student Founcation for Kansas State University
Alpha Xi Delta Sorority
Student Governing Association
Student Alumni Board
Engineering Ambassadors
Quest Freshman Honorary
KWU UNAM Skype Partnership
Thomas' goals are to continue studying water and environmental issues in Central and South America to help provide clean water and sustainable food production, and continue learning how the government can help manage and protect natural resources.
UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPA $750 university scholarship was awarded to Dylan Osterhaus, a junior at Emporia State University majoring in ecology and biodiversity.
Honors
Mid-Biology Department Honor Scholar
Dean’s List
Kansas Honors Scholar
Extracurricular Activities
Mid-Emporia State Biology Club
Emporia State Chapter of the Wildlife Society
Kansas Fisheries Society
Osterhaus' goals are to pursue a graduate degree in biology and seek a position as a professor at an institution of higher education in order to conduct research to broaden his understanding of the threats of the environment and teach the next generation of environmental conservationists.
Scholarship Winner ─VictoraSaundersThomas(picturedwithMarthaTasker)
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ScholarShipS
I would like to introduce myself, Jay Lovett, City of Lawrence, as the incoming chair for the Laboratory Committee.Ihavebeeninthewater/wastewaterfieldfor almost 12 years, starting as a wastewater treatment plant operator in 2007. I moved into the laboratory in 2010 and have ABC Class IV water and wastewater analystcertificates.
In addition to my time in the laboratory, I work on the City’s Industrial Pretreatment Program and Source Water Protection Planning. In my spare time, I enjoy playing with my 19-month-old daughter Opal, working on antique mopeds, and camping.
Lovett Steps in as Laboratory Commitee Chair,Welcomes Two New Members
by Jay Lovett, Laboratory Committee Chair
The Laboratory Committee is happy to introduce our two newest members: Paul Harrison, with KDHE, and Michelle Hull from Hutchinson, Kansas. We very much appreciate your commitment to the environmental laboratoryfieldandlookforwardtoworkingwithyouboth in the future.
Thank you all for your hard work and dedication to thelaboratoryfield.Aswelookforwardtoanothersuccessful year, please feel free to reach out to me or other committee members if you have laboratory questions, or if you would like to learn more about joining our group.
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Laboratory
69th Annual KU Environmental Engineering Conference
The conference theme is “Affordably Improving Sustainability and System Performance.”
Plenary session presentations will address topics of broad interest; and afternoon breakout sessions will address timely topics in the areas of water supply and treatment; water quality and wastewater treatment; and air, energy, and waste management.
PROGRAM & REGISTRATIONhttp://ceae.ku.edu/
Participants will earn 6.5 PDHs.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2019 KANSAS MEMORIAL UNION AT KU
The KWEA Government Affairs Committee hosted the 12th Annual Four-States Government Affairs meeting Oct.30,2018,atEPA’sRegion7officeinLenexa,Kansas. The meeting is an annual opportunity for water environment leaders from the EPA Region 7 states to collaborate with each other and EPA on common issues. The meeting was attended by representatives of Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Kansas Water Environment Association (KWEA), Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ), Nebraska Water Environment Association (NWEA), Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Iowa Water Environment Association (IWEA), Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), Missouri Water Environment Association (MWEA), EPA Region 7, and other interested stakeholders.
Each state had the opportunity to present and discuss topics of interest in their state. The following is a sampling of the topics discussed by each state.
KansasKDHE initiated discussion of Section 404 permitting, of which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is encouraging the transfer of permitting authority to the states. The state agencies discussed their viewpoints on this shift and their level of preparedness for assuming this program. All states agreed that funding, which is not being provided by the federal government, is an issue and they will need more staff to administer the program, which will effectively be similar to starting an NPDES program from scratch, except with an endless supply of permittees.
MattUnruhoftheKansasWaterofficepresentedinformation regarding the Milford Lake Regional Conservation Partnership Program. The program is funded in part through a National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) technical assistance grant and in part through partnerships with stakeholders surrounding the lake and along the downstream
Kansas River. The program focuses on agricultural best management practices to reduce nutrients and subsequent harmful algal blooms in the lake.
Jim Fitzpatrick, KWEA Government Affairs Committee member, gave a summary of the roundtable discussing peakwetweatherflowmanagementheldatEPAinWashington, D.C., Oct. 15. He noted that EPA seemed mostly positive and has the goal of establishing clarity, consistency, and transparency with this rulemaking. A draftruleisexpectedin2019withafinalrulein2020.
MissouriMDNR discussed the principle of cooperative federalism, an idea which promotes working collaboratively at all levels of government and what it means in their state. They have requested that EPA maintain an oversight role and step back from routine inspection and enforcement to allow the state to administer these functions where appropriate. They are still working with EPAtofinalizetheirlakenutrientcriteria.
NebraskaNWEA presented experience within their state applying for a loan through EPA’s WIFIA program. The City of Omaha applied for a loan last year for a $100 million high rate treatment facility planned as part of their combinedseweroverflowlong-termcontrolplan.Theyclosed on the loan in June 2018 and expect to open bids in early 2019. EPA has estimated the City of Omaha will save $20 million by utilizing a low-interest loan through the WIFIA program.
IowaIDNR discussed nutrient reduction within their state. Approximately 90 percent of point source dischargers have been issued a permit with nutrient limits. They are working on a rulemaking for a nutrient trading program, for which some cities have started “banking” points for nonpoint source reductions in anticipation of a future program.
12th Annual EPA, 4-State Governmental Affairs Meeting
by Lorrie Hill, Government Affairs Committee Chair
30
Government AffAirs
Region 7EPA Region 7 staff also presented on topics of interest to theattendees.JeffRobichaud,whowasofficiallypromotedto director of the Water, Wetlands, and Pesticides Division of EPA Region 7 in May of this year, was on hand to discuss EPA Headquarters and Region 7 issues.
Region7,likeotherregionalEPAoffices,isrealigningtheirstructure
tomatchthestructureoftheheadquartersoffice.Theyexpecttobe
finishedrestructuringbytheendofthisyear.Thegoaloftherealignment
is to increase coordination between EPA National Programs and their
regional counterparts; improve consistent implementation of regulations
and policies; and allow for better resource allocation.
Region 7 is a pilot region for the Kaizen lean production method, which
focuses on process improvement measures and eliminating waste in
order to improve productivity.
Their goal is to move permits forward faster – within six months – to
provide certainty to permitees.
In addition, Gustavo Queiroz presented an inside look at the WIFIA application evaluation process and Mike Tate presented preliminary information on a sustainability tool Region 7 is developing with the Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center, which predicts future wastewater rate impacts based on population, income, inflation,andotherpastdata.
MWEA will host the next Four-States Government Affairs meeting in fall 2019.
For more information regarding this meeting, please contact Lorrie Hill, Government Affairs Committee Chair, at [email protected].
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Government AffAirs
Congratulations to our winners from the annual joint conference Business Card Bingo. We appreciate all who participated and signed up to hear more about our committee. You should have received an email regarding your interest, but if for some reason we missed you, please reach out to Miranda Sloan.
Have you ever thought about learning about the chemical process that happens to make beer? The KWEA YP Committee toured Free State Brewing Company in Lawrence, Kansas, in November. We had a great turnout with participation from new attendees as
Young Professionals Comittee Update
by Miranda Sloan, Young Professionals Committee Chair
well as the University of Kansas. After the tour, we met at the restaurant for a happy hour and appetizers. Thank you to all who attended and planned the event.
If you are interested in learning more about the Young Professionals Committee or would like to be invited to our next event, contact Miranda Sloan.
Miranda Sloan, Student & Young Professional Chair
As a full-service engineering and construction firm, we provide lasting and integrated solutions in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities to public and private clients worldwide.
Offices in: Denver, Kansas City, Little Rock, Oklahoma City, Omaha, & Wichita
www.cdmsmith.com
listen. think. deliver.
32
Young Professionals
A routine investigation by the U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency(EPA)OfficeofInspectorGeneral(OIG) has concluded that EPA’s controls over the land application of biosolids were incomplete or had weaknesses and may not fully protect human health andtheenvironment.However,theEPAOfficeofWater,which operates the biosolids program, disagrees with thefindingsandstatesthatpresenceofpollutantsdoesnot automatically pose a risk to public health and the environment.
Throughout 2017 and 2018, OIG investigated whether EPA “has and implements controls over the land application of sewage sludge that are protective of human health and the environment.” On Nov. 15, 2018, OIG released a report based on its investigation titled, EPA Unable to Assess the Impact of Hundreds of Unregulated Pollutants in Land-Applied Biosolids on Human Health and the Environment.
OIG Process and FindingsOIGisanindependentofficethathelpstheagencyprotecttheenvironmentinamoreefficientandcost-effective manner. OIG’s main activities include performing audits and investigations of EPA to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse. Following an audit or investigation, OIG typically releases a report of findings.
In the report on the biosolids investigation, OIG found 352 unregulated pollutants in biosolids and stated that EPA lacked the data or risk assessment tools to decide
safety. These 352 pollutants are in addition to the nine regulated pollutants that EPA consistently monitors.
The report pointed to a steady reduction in staff and resources in the EPA biosolids program as a cause of many of these weaknesses. The OIG recommended that theEPAOfficeofWater“addresscontrolweaknessesinbiosolids research, information sharing with the public, pathogen control and training” and implement corrective actionswithmilestonestofixtheseissues.
The report and related materials can be viewed on OIG’s website at http://bit.ly/EPA-OIG-biosolids2018.
Office of Water ResponseOIGprovidedtheOfficeofWaterthechancetocomment on the report; this response is included in AppendixDofthereport.TheOfficeofWatertookissuewith how the science was presented in the report and stated that “there is no attempt to make it clear to the reader that the occurrence of pollutants in biosolids does not necessarily mean that those pollutants pose a risk to public health and the environment.”
The response also states that a top priority for the biosolids program will be to address the uncertainty of potential risk posed by pollutants found in biosolids but uncertainties in science does not mean that they are threats to human health and the environment.
The OIG report resulted in 13 recommendations for theOfficeofWatertoconsider.TheOfficeofWater
U.S. EPA Office of Inspector General Releases Biosolids Report
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Featured Story
34
response provides corrective actions and milestone dates for eight of them with resolution efforts underway fortheremainingfive.
TheOfficeofWaterconductsbiennialreviewsofbiosolids that include a full literature review of potential toxic pollutants and determines if the pollutants detected pose “potential risk to human health or the environment.” The 2015 report analyzed peer-reviewed journal articles from January 2013 through December 2014 to determine the articles’ relevance to biosolids and potential pollutants. Overall, 46 articles met the eligibility criteria.Onceanalyzed,thebiosolidsprogramidentified29 new chemical pollutants. Following a risk assessment ofthesenewchemicals,theOfficeofWaterdeterminedthat no additional pollutants needed to be regulated. A 2017 report following the same intensive analysis is expected to be released in the coming months.
WEF ActionsDuring the OIG investigation, WEF staff members were interviewed and have since been tracking the report and working with other biosolids partners to coordinate responses after the release. It is WEF’s position that decades of science have shown that biosolids are a safe, renewable resource that improves our environment, lowers costs to consumers, and strengthens our farming communities.
Biosolids undergo a rigorous set of treatment processes that include physical, chemical, and biological processes to aid pathogen reduction. Utilities across the country have been safely recycling biosolids for decades while delivering innovative solutions that lead to stronger, more sustainable, and resilient communities.
WEF supports continued research on biosolids to ensure regulatory requirements continue to be based on the latest science. The WEF Residuals and Biosolids Committee (RBC) is committed to developing and
promoting cost-effective practices and policies in biosolids and energy technologies associated with municipal, agricultural, and industrial wastewater residuals for the protection of the environment. Through education of WEF members, the public, and policymakers, RBC aims to serve the public interest regardingscientificallysoundresidualsandbiosolidsenvironmental practices and regulation. To learn more, visit the RBC page — http://www.wef.org/biosolids — to download fact sheets, white papers, and technical reports.
Patrick Dube is a technical program manager in the Water Science & Engineering Center at the Water Environment Federation (Alexandria, Virginia). He manages the Residuals and Biosolids Committee and the Air
Quality & Odor Control Committee. He can be contacted at [email protected].
This article solely reflects the personal opinions of the authors, not necessarily WEF and its members. It is provided for educational purposes only, and is not intended to substitute for the retainer and advice of an appropriate professional. No warranties or endorsement of any kind are granted or implied.
Featured Story
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Advertiser index
2019 Advertisers
TheKansasWaterEnvironmentAssociationwelcomesadvertisementinSplashings.Yourfirmcanannounceavailableprofessionalservicesandequipmenttoaverytargetedreadership—themostimportantaudienceintheentirefield.Splashings is published four times a year. Each issue generally contains 30 to 50 pages, is published in color, and is distributed electronically. If you wish, the staff will be happy to assist you in the layout of your ad; just contact the editor.
Make sure the readers of Splashings see your advertisement or professional card in future issues. Advertising pays, and with today’s high-cost advertisements, Splashings maintains extremely reasonable ad rates.
Get Noticed
2019 Advertising RatesSize One Issue Yearly
Members Non-members Members Non-members
Full page $225 $280 $500 $670
1/2 page $110 $175 $345 $550
1/4 page $75 $140 $230 $440
1/8 page $65 $125 $180 $400
Aero-Mod back cover
Biorem inside cover
Black & Veatch 16
CAS Constructors 7
Carollo Engineers 9
CDM Smith 32
Enviro-Care Company 39
Fluid Equipment 3
George Butler Associates, Inc. 31
Lamp Rynearson 33
Nutri-Ject Systems, Inc. 4
PEC 12
R.E. Pedrotti Co., Inc. 29
TREKK Design Group 28
UCI 18
Wilson & Company inside cover
37
KWea oFFicerS
37
Kansas Water Environment Association6209 S.W. 24th TerraceTopeka, KS 66614Phone: 785-215-2530 [email protected]
Questions? Comments? Our KWEA
Officers and Committee Chairs
are available to help you with any
questions you may have about our
organization. Please do not hesitate
to contact us!
Past PresidentSusan Pekarek – JCW11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 2500 Olathe, KS 66061Phone: 913-715-8553 Fax: 913-715-8501Email: [email protected]
Secretary/TreasurerSylvan Coles – City of Topeka1115 N.E. Poplar StreetTopeka, KS 66616Phone: 785-215-2530Email: [email protected]
Senior DelegateJeanette Klamm – JCW 4800 Nall Avenue Mission, KS 66202Phone: 913-715-8608Email: [email protected]
Junior DelegateBrian Spano – Wilson & Company 1700 E. Iron AvenueSalina, KS 67401Phone: 785-827-0433 Fax: 785-827-5949Email: [email protected]
PWO TrusteeJoe Foster – City of OlatheP.O. Box 768Olathe, KS 66051--0768Phone: 913-971-9041Fax: 913-971-9099Email: [email protected]
Manufacturer TrusteeMichael Rudy – EPEC2250 N. Rock Road, Suite 118-253Wichita, KS 67226Phone: 316-866-2888Email: [email protected]
Convention CoordinatorDustin Coles – City of Topeka930 N.E. Hilltop Drive Topeka, KS 66617Fax: 785-286-6993Email: [email protected]
Young Professionals TrusteeEd McGrath – R.E. Pedrotti Co. 5855 Beverly Avenue, Suite A Mission, KS 66202Phone: 913-677-3366Fax: 913-677-3460Email: [email protected]
PresidentRon Thomann – TREKK Design Group1411 E. 104th StreetKansas City, MO 64131Phone: 816-877-8677Email: [email protected]
President-ElectChris Ramsey – Black & Veatch 8400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114Phone: 913-458-3303Email: [email protected]
Vice PresidentJason Patty – City of El Dorado 105 W. Wetlands Drive El Dorado, KS 67042-1527 Phone: 316-322-4981 Email: [email protected]
3838
KWea committee chairS
AdministrativeConstitution & Bylaws SubcommitteeJames Martin2901 S.E. Gemini Court Topeka, KS 66605Phone: 785-230-2689Email: [email protected]
Finance SubcommitteeBrian Spano – Wilson & Company 1700 E. Iron AvenueSalina, KS 67401Phone: 785-827-0433 Fax: 785-827-5949Email: [email protected]
Membership SubcommitteeRyan Rutkowski – CAS Constructors Inc. 3500 S.W. Fairlawn Road, Suite 200 Topeka, KS 66614Phone: 785-270-1114Email: [email protected]
AuditWaldo Margheim – Burns & McDonnell9400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114Phone: 816-844-4641Email: [email protected]
Collection SystemsChair Laura Gray – Lamp Rynearson 9001 State Line Road, Suite 200Kansas City, MO 64114Phone: 816-361-0440Email: [email protected]
Vice Chair Alex Darby – PEC 400 S. Kansas Avenue, Suite 200 Topeka, KS 66603 Phone: 785-233-8300 Fax: 785-233-8855 Email: [email protected]
Past Chair Chris Ramsey – Black & Veatch 8400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114Phone: 913-458-3303 Fax: 913-458-3802Email: [email protected]
Awards Subcommittee Alex Darby – PEC 1263 S.W. Topeka Boulevard Topeka, KS 66612 Phone: 785-233-8300 Fax: 785-233-8855 Email: [email protected]
National Issues Subcommittee Stuart Lord – JCW 4800 Nall Avenue Mission, KS 66202 Phone: 913-715-8544 Email: [email protected]
Publications Subcommittee Chris Ramsey – Black & Veatch 8400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114Phone: 913-458-3303 Fax: 913-458-3802Email: [email protected]
Technology Transfer Subcommittee Steve Williams – Key Equipment & Supply 6716 Berger Avenue Kansas City, KS 66111 Phone: 913-371-8260 Fax: 913-788-4093 Email: [email protected]
Training & Safety SubcommitteeVacant
Government AffairsLorrie Hill – City of OlatheP.O. Box 768Olathe, KS 66051--0768Phone: 913-971-9077Fax: 913-971-9099Email: [email protected]
Collections SubcommitteeVacant
Stormwater SubcommitteeAndy Sauer – Burns & McDonnell 9400 Ward Parkway Kansas City, MO 64114 Phone: 816-448-7578 Email: [email protected]
Treatment SubcommitteeLorrie Hill – City of OlatheP.O. Box 768Olathe, KS 66051--0768Phone: 913-971-9077Fax: 913-971-9099Email: [email protected]
IndustrialMichael Carter – JCW11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 2500 Olathe, KS 66061-7061Phone: 913-715-6940 Email: [email protected]
LaboratoryChairJay Lovett – City of Lawrence 1400 E. 8th Street Lawrence, KS 66044 Phone: 785-423-0785 Email: [email protected]
Municipal ManagementPatrick Beane – JCW11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 2500Olathe, KS 66061-7058 Phone: 913-715-8684 Fax: 913-715-8501Email: [email protected]
Municipal Tech TransferPhil Burns – Shafer, Kline & Warren, Inc.11250 Corporate Avenue Lenexa, KS 66219Phone: 913-888-7800 Fax: 913-888-7868Email: [email protected]
NominatingSusan Pekarek – JCW11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 2500 Olathe, KS 66061Phone: 913-715-8553 Fax: 913-715-8501Email: [email protected]
Plant Operations & MaintenanceTyler Pjesky – Bartlett & West Engineers1200 S.W. Executive DriveTopeka, KS 66615Phone: 785-969-0423Email: [email protected]
Safety SubcommitteeFloyd Koder – City of OlatheP.O. Box 768Olathe, KS 66051--0768Phone: 913-971-9077Fax: 913-971-9099Email: [email protected]
Plant Awards SubcommitteeSteven McNolty II – City of OlatheP.O. Box 768Olathe, KS 66051--0768 Phone: 913-971-5545 Email: [email protected]
Program CommitteeChris Ramsey – Black & Veatch 8400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114Phone: 913-458-3303Email: [email protected]
Public Communication & OutreachChair Page Burks – Black & Veatch8400 Ward Parkway Kansas City, MO 64114Phone: 913-458-3814Email: [email protected]
Vice ChairCarla Dods – Shockey Consulting Svcs. 12351 W. 96th Terrace, Suite 107 Lenexa, KS 66215 Phone: 816-716-3402 Email: [email protected]
Public Education SubcommitteeVacant
3939
KWea committee chairS
Publications SubcommitteeBarry Schmidt – Black & Veatch8400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114Phone: 913-458-3660Email: [email protected]
Publicity/WEF Awards SubcommitteeVacant
Webmaster Tina Leitzel – Leitzel Design Wichita, KSPhone: 316-214-7026Email: [email protected]
Resource Recovery / BiosolidsChris Burns – CDM Smith 9200 Ward Parkway, Suite 320 Kansas City, MO 64114 Phone: 816-412-3172 Fax: 816-444-8232 Email: [email protected]
ScholarshipMartha Tasker – City of Salina300 W. Ash StreetSalina, KS 67401-2335Phone: 785-309-5725Fax: 785-309-5713Email: [email protected]
Stockholm Junior Water PrizeRebecca Lewis – Wichita Public Works/Utilities2305 E. 57th St. S. Wichita, KS 67216Phone: 316-303-8702Fax: 316-858-7394Email: [email protected]
Student & Young ProfessionalChair Miranda Sloan – Burns & McDonnell9400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114 Phone: 816-995-9250Email: [email protected]
Vice ChairSarah Espinosa – Burns & McDonnell9400 Ward ParkwayKansas City, MO 64114 Phone: 816-822-3342Email: [email protected]
Past ChairRyan Rutkowski – CAS Constructors Inc. 3500 S.W. Fairlawn Road, Suite 200 Topeka, KS 66614Phone: 785-270-1114Email: [email protected]
PERSONAL INFORMATION
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MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION
By joining WEF, you also become a member of a local Member Association (MA). Please enter your membership category (Box 1) and the Local MA you wish to join from the list on the next page. Note: District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, and Virginia residents have two MA choices. Please indicate your primary choice in box 2 below. If you join both, please add your secondary selection as a Dual MA with the corresponding Dual MA dues in box 3 below.
Dues
DUES
Membership Categories 1. Membership Category
Professional $140 Individuals involved in or interested in water quality. National Dues: $
Global Professional $140 Individuals involved in or interested in water quality living outside of the U.S., U.S. territories and Canada.
Executive $310 Upper level managers interested in an expanded suite of WEF products/services.
Academic $140 Instructors/Professors interested in subjects related to water quality. 2. Local MA Selection
Professional Operator
$75 Individuals involved in the day-to-day operation of wastewater collection, treatment or laboratory facility, or for facilities with a daily flow of < 1 mgd or 40 L/sec.License #: ________________
Local MA Name: $
Young Professional (YP)
$49 WEF members or former WEF Student members with 5 or less years of experience in the industry and less than 35 years of age. This package is available for 3 years.
3. Dual MA Selection (optional)
Dual MA Name: $ Student $20 Must be enrolled for a minimum of six credit hours in an accredited college or university.
Must provide written documentation on school letterhead verifying status, signed by an advisor or faculty member. TOTAL $
E-Global $32 Individuals living outside of the U.S., U.S. Territories, and Canada. Includes benefits offered in electronic and online formats. Excludes conference discounts.
ACQ. Code for WEF use only | WEF19
2 0 1 9 A P P L I C A T I O N
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Phone: 1.800.666.0206 or 1.571.830.1545 globallyFax: 1.240.396.2471
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DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
The following is requested for informational purposes only.
Gender: Female Male
Education: Doctorate MA/MBA/MS BA/BS
AA/AAS Technical School High School
Dependent upon your membership level, $55, $47 or $20 of your membership dues is allocated towards a subscription of Water Environment & Technology (WE&T) magazine that is non-deductible from the membership dues.
RACE/ETHNIC ORGIN
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Published by the Kansas Water Environment Association
c/o Barry Schmidt, Editor8400 Ward Parkway Kansas City, MO 64114
