RCAP's Drop of Knowledge: Article Roundup #6

Drop of Knowledge is a monthly digital article from Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP.) The articles focus on topics like wastewater, drinking water, policy, and infrastructure in rural America. It contains how-to’s, tips, and guidance from more than 300 technical assistance providers (TAPs) across the country. Some featured articles are linked below:

• An Elementary Look at Water Pollution
• Colonias in Texas: Improving the Quality of Life One Flush At a Time
• Investigating Inflow & Infiltration
• Water and Wastewater Utility Asset Management: Vehicles
• Wastewater Maintenance: Drawdown Pump Test
• When the Going Gets Rural: Five Challenges Technical Assistance Providers Can’t Escape

Looking for something else? Find more articles and subscribe to A Drop of Knowledge.

The Impact of Winter Weather on Water Systems

With winter weather upon us, water systems face increased challenges. The combination of freezing temperatures, increased water demand, and potential infrastructure vulnerabilities can significantly impact the quality and reliability of drinking water. Understanding these challenges and how to mitigate them is crucial for ensuring safe and consistent water supply during the colder months.

Freezing Temperatures and Infrastructure

One of the primary concerns during winter is the risk of pipes freezing and bursting. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to crack or burst. This not only leads to water loss but also poses a risk of contamination if the integrity of the water system is compromised. To prevent this, water utilities often implement measures such as:

• Insulating Pipes and Infrastructure: Ensure that pipes are properly insulated and that heating systems are in place to maintain a stable temperature in critical areas.
• Regular Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of water systems, including checking for leaks and ensuring that all equipment is in good working order.
• Heating Systems: Installing heating systems in critical areas to maintain a stable temperature.
• Communication with Customers: Encourage homeowners to be proactive about protecting their pipes from freezing in colder months.

Increased Water Demand

Winter weather can lead to increased water demand for various reasons, including the need for heating systems that use water, such as boilers and radiators. Additionally, people tend to use more water for hot showers and baths during colder months. This increased demand can strain the water supply system, making it essential for utilities to manage resources efficiently.

Contamination Risks

Snow and ice can carry pollutants, like salt for de-icing roads, that may enter the water supply through runoff. When snow melts, it can pick up contaminants from roads, agricultural fields, and other surfaces, which then flow into water sources. To address this, water treatment facilities must be equipped to handle higher levels of pollutants and ensure that the water is safe for consumption.

Mitigation Strategies

To ensure the reliability and safety of drinking water systems during winter, several strategies can be employed. Organizations should establish a comprehensive cold weather safety plan. This plan should outline precautions to take before, during, and after the onset of freezing temperatures. Key elements include: 

• Winterize water systems and ensure that exposed plumbing is properly drained. 
• Inspect building heating systems to keep areas with plumbing above 40°F. 
• Clear access to fire hydrants, sprinkler system rooms, and life safety equipment.
• Monitor and manage snow accumulation on roofs and around facilities to prevent damage and ensure safety.
• Review emergency evacuation procedures to ensure that snow, ice and cold weather conditions are adequately addressed.

Winter weather presents unique challenges for water systems, but with proactive preparation and effective management, these challenges can be mitigated. By understanding the risks and implementing appropriate strategies, we can ensure that our drinking water remains safe and reliable throughout the winter season.

Safeguarding Public Health from PFAS

In October 2021, the EPA unveiled its PFAS Strategic Roadmap, a comprehensive plan to tackle the pervasive issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals.” This roadmap outlines the EPA’s commitment to a "whole-of-agency approach", focusing on three central directives: research, restrict, and remediate. By investing in scientific research, the EPA aims to deepen our understanding of PFAS and their impacts on human health and the environment. The roadmap also emphasizes proactive measures to prevent PFAS from entering air, land, and water, and accelerating cleanup efforts to protect communities across the United States. 

EPA has made significant strides in addressing the issue of PFAS and their new progress report highlights key accomplishments under the national strategy to confront PFAS in communities across the country.

Here are the key highlights from the EPA’s recent progress report:

• First-ever nationwide standards: In 2024, the EPA introduced legally enforceable drinking water standards for PFAS, aiming to reduce exposure for approximately 100 million people.
• Data collection: The EPA is conducting the largest nationwide effort to understand PFAS levels in drinking water, covering around 10,000 water systems.
• $10 billion investment: Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, significant funds are allocated to remove PFAS from water, with a focus on installing new infrastructure and treatment technologies.
• Polluter accountability: The EPA finalized a rule designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances, ensuring that polluters, not taxpayers, bear the cleanup costs.
• Regulatory actions: The EPA has taken steps to prevent inactive PFAS from reentering commerce and issued rules to ensure protective restrictions on PFAS manufacturing and processing.
• Measurement methods: The EPA developed methods for measuring PFAS in various environmental media and set water quality criteria to protect aquatic life.
• Focused enforcement: The EPA established a PFAS Enforcement Discretion and Settlement Policy to target significant contributors to PFAS contamination.

These initiatives demonstrate EPA's dedication to tackling PFAS pollution directly, utilizing scientific research, regulatory measures, and significant investments to safeguard public health and the environment. For more detailed information, you can read the full PFAS Strategic Roadmap on the EPA’s website. 

Wastewater System Sustainability Practices | Recorded on November 12, 2024

In this recording of our recent live webinar "Wastewater System Sustainability Practices" viewers will discover some of the most helpful resources for wastewater system sustainability practices and learn how to use our search tools at WaterOperator.org to find additional resources and training events.

This webinar series from WaterOperator.org covers topics relevant to wastewater operators, including funding, asset management, compliance, and water quality. Certificates of attendance will be delivered upon request to live attendees but are not available for watching this replay.

How to Utilize the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF)

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) is a resource for communities looking to improve water quality and infrastructure. Established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the CWSRF provides low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality projects. The CWSRF operates as a federal-state partnership, offering financial assistance to communities for projects that protect and improve water quality. This includes decentralized wastewater treatment systems, energy efficiency improvements, water reuse projects, security measures at publicly owned treatment works, and more. We have provided a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of this valuable program:

1. Identify Eligible Projects: The first step is to determine if your project is eligible for CWSRF funding. Eligible projects include wastewater treatment, stormwater management, water conservation, green infrastructure initiatives, and more.
2. Contact Your State CWSRF Program: Each state manages its own CWSRF program. Reach out to your state’s CWSRF office to get specific information on application procedures, deadlines, and requirements. They can provide guidance tailored to your project and location.
3. Prepare Your Application: Gather all necessary documentation and complete the application forms. This typically includes project plans, environmental reviews, and financial information. Your state CWSRF office can assist with this process to ensure your application is complete and accurate.
4. Submit!

If you're looking to learn more about the CWSRF, the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) offers an in-depth webinar series on their YouTube channel. This series is designed to help communities, water systems, and wastewater systems navigate the complexities of the CWSRF funding process. Each session covers essential topics such as project planning, working with engineers, setting project milestones, and financial management. You can watch the 12-video series on EFCN's YouTube channel.

Flushable Wipes: The Bane of the Wastewater Industry

In the video below, featured on Icon Water's YouTube channel, they test a "flushable" wet wipe to see how well it dissolves in water compared to toilet paper, wet wipes (not labeled flushable), and paper towels. All 4 products are spun for 30 minutes in water to display how well each of these products breaks down when you flush them. 

Flushable wipes have been the plague of the wastewater industry for years due to the problems they cause for systems. Not only can they clog pipes, damage equipment, and harm the environment, but they require increased maintenance for utilities. 

The most recent legislation regarding flushable wipes is the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act. This bill was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in June 2024. This act "would require the Federal Trade Commission to create a uniform label for products that have and/or require a 'Do Not Flush' label" in order to reduce consumer confusion and help to protect wastewater systems. Additionally, Michigan recently passed a law in July 2024 that prohibits manufacturers from marketing wipes as “flushable.”

Further Reading...

• Oregon To Require Do Not Flush Labeling On Wipes | Nonwovens Industry
• These ‘flushable’ wipes shouldn’t be flushed, plumbers say | The Hill
• Hanford city warns residents against flushing non-flushable wipes | YourCentralValley.com
• WIPPES Act - Set To Create National Standard For Wipes Labeling | Nonwovens Industry
• New Michigan law bans ‘flushable’ label on most bathroom wipes | MLive

VirCon 2025 Announcement

Our partners at the RCAP network deliver in-person training nationwide, as do the hundreds of training providers we list on the WaterOperator.org calendar. But, we know it can be difficult to get away from the day-to-day of your job, assuming there is even funding for the travel expenses. 

The team at WaterOperator.org is excited to announce that free registration has opened for the 2025 Virtual Operator Conference.

Over three days (February 4-6, 2025) participants can earn up to 12 continuing education hours applicable to their drinking water operator license renewal. We are seeking approval in all relevant operator certification jurisdictions, with updates listed on the event registration page. This free, virtual training conference offers drinking water operators a chance to learn more about timely topics, improve fundamental skills, and get support for specific challenges while earning up to 12 hours of CEU credit. While there is no substitute for in-person training, this online event was created to specifically target operators of small and rural public water systems who may not have the means or ability to travel. Conference instructors are technical assistance providers from the RCAP network.

Topics for this free, online event include PFAS, Excel for compliance reporting, cybersecurity, chlorine meters, how to create a flushing program, and more. Each session is delivered by a technical assistance professional from the RCAP network. Register now to save your spot. 

LCRI: Next Steps for Water Systems

The recent Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) introduced by the EPA mark a significant step towards ensuring safer drinking water across the United States. These improvements require water systems to take several important actions to comply with the new regulations. Below is a guide to help water systems navigate these changes effectively and efficiently.

Develop a Baseline Service Line Inventory: Water systems must create a detailed inventory of all service lines, identifying those made of lead or galvanized steel. This inventory is crucial for planning and prioritizing replacements. The initial inventory was due by October 16, 2024, and must be updated regularly.

Replace Lead Service Lines: One of the core requirements of the LCRI is the replacement of all lead service lines within 10 years. Water systems need to develop a comprehensive replacement plan, secure funding, and begin the replacement process promptly.

Enhanced Testing and Monitoring: The LCRI mandates more rigorous testing protocols to detect lead in drinking water. Water systems must implement these protocols, which include testing at schools and childcare facilities for the first time. Regular monitoring and reporting are essential to ensure compliance and protect public health.

Public Notification and Communication: Transparency is key under the LCRI. Water systems must notify the public about the presence of lead service lines and any exceedances of lead action levels. Effective communication strategies should be developed to keep communities informed about the risks and the steps being taken to mitigate them.

Secure Funding and Resources: Compliance with the LCRI will require significant financial resources. Water systems should explore funding opportunities such as the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and grants available under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Developing a robust financial plan is essential to support the replacement and testing initiatives.

Funding can be accessed through several federal programs:

• Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: This law provides $15 billion specifically for lead service line replacement and an additional $11.7 billion for general Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (DWSRF), which can also be used for lead service line replacement.
• Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN) Grants: These grants for small, underserved, disadvantaged communities offer competitive funding opportunities that can help small systems reduce lead in drinking water.
• Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Loans: This program provides low-interest loans for water infrastructure projects, including those focused on lead service line replacement.
• EPA Technical Assistance Programs: The EPA offers technical assistance through initiatives like the Get the Lead Out (GLO) Initiative, which helps communities identify lead service lines, develop replacement plans, and apply for funding.

Staff Training and Capacity Building: Ensuring that staff are well-trained and knowledgeable about the new requirements is crucial. Water systems should invest in training programs and capacity-building initiatives to equip their teams with the necessary skills to implement the LCRI effectively.

Engage with the Community: Community engagement is vital for the successful implementation of the LCRI. Water systems should hold public meetings, provide educational materials, and work closely with community leaders to build trust and support for the lead service line replacement efforts.

The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements represent a significant advancement in protecting public health from the dangers of lead in drinking water. By following these steps, and reading EPA's Fact Sheet for further guidance, water systems can ensure compliance with the LCRI and contribute to a safer, healthier future for all communities.

Cybersecurity Tips for Water and Wastewater Utilities

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! The water sector can protect its infrastructure, maintain public trust, and ensure the safety and reliability of its services by prioritizing cybersecurity. U.S. EPA has provided some tips on how to avoid cybersecurity threats and keep your utility secure. These tips are outlined below:

​Passwords

Passwords should be at least 12 characters long, unique for each account, and complex. To make a secure password you should incorporate a mix of uppercase & lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. 

If your passwords meet these criteria, they generally only need to be changed if they are compromised. It can be challenging to remember multiple passwords, so use a password manager to help.

Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA involves using multiple methods to verify a user’s identity, going beyond a simple login. Verification methods can include something you know, such as a password or PIN; something you are, like a fingerprint or facial scan; and something you have, like a key card or security token.

Phishing

Phishing occurs when criminals use fake emails or social media posts to trick users into clicking on malicious links, which can then install malware onto the system. 

To identify phishing attempts, ask yourself: Is it too good to be true? Does it request personal information? Does the sender’s email address match who they claim to represent? Are there any spelling or grammar errors?

If you detect a phishing attempt, report it to your IT manager or security team as quickly as possible. Do not click on any links, delete the email, and use the “Report Phishing” function in your email (if available.)

Update Software

Updating software, or patching, involves installing updates released by the manufacturer to close known vulnerabilities and provide the latest features. Enabling automatic updates ensures updates are installed as soon as they are released, though a system restart is usually required. If automatic updates aren’t possible, regularly check for updates manually and create a schedule to make this a habit.

Be cautious of fake update pop-ups that urgently demand downloads, as these can lead to malware. If you encounter such pop-ups, run a scan to check for malware.

By implementing these cybersecurity tips, you can significantly enhance your protection against cyber threats. Remember, staying informed and vigilant is key to safeguarding your utility.

The Importance of Preparedness for Water and Wastewater Systems

National Preparedness Month (NPM) is observed each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could impact water and wastewater systems. In recognition of NPM, we have linked some valuable resilience resources below. These resources were created by U.S. EPA to help systems better navigate disasters and emergencies.

Develop a Risk and Resilience Assessment (RRA)

It's important for utilities to prepare for both natural and human-made disasters by assessing for the greatest risks. Developing a Risk and Resilience Assessment (RRA) helps you systematically assess your utility's risks. 

• EPA has two tools to choose from to help you develop an RRA: the Small System RRA Checklist (recommended for small systems) and Vulnerability Self-Assessment Tool (recommended for large systems.)

Prepare an Emergency Response Plan (ERP)

Once you assess for risks to your utility, the next step is to create an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) to outline how you will prepare for, or respond to, the risks identified in your RRA. 

• EPA's ERP Template and Instructions will walk you step-by-step through how to develop your ERP. 
• Read our blog post on WaterOperator.org for more resources on emergency operations and preparing an ERP

Community drinking water systems serving more than 3,300 people are required to have both an RRA and ERP that are updated every five years. However, EPA encourages all water and wastewater systems to plan for disasters they may face by developing an RRA and ERP!

Minimize the Impact of Weather-Related Disasters

EPA’s Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) Storm Surge Inundation Map can help your utility prepare for the effects of a hurricane. The map has been updated to provide the most current information on past and present storms. The “real-time” map shows storm surge projections as advisories are released, complementing the “worst-case” surge projections and enhancing disaster preparedness.

EPA also has a mobile app, Water Utility Response On-The-Go App Plus, that provides information and tools that water utilities can use to prepare for an emergency. Users can track severe weather, contact response partners, and find up-to-date information on local emergencies. Once the disaster has passed, the tool can be used to assess damage and complete incident action checklists.