Tennessee Utility News 3rd issue, vol. 25

V o l . 2 5 , N o . 33 r d Q u a r t e r 2 0 11

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E T E N N E S S E E A S S O C I AT I O N O F U T I L I T Y D I S T R I C T S

6 TA U D I n a u g u r a l O p e r a t o r E x p o B a s s To u r n a m e n t

10 TA U D W e l c o m e s N e w B o a r d M e m b e r s & A s s o c i a t e A d v i s o r

13 W a t e r & E l e c t r i c t y D o n ’ t M i x o r D o T h e y ?

18 M I C I n F i r e S p r i n k l e r S y s t e m s

2 8 N o L e a d A h e a d - A r e Yo u R e a d y ?

C r o s s C o n n e c t i o n & D i s t r i b u t i o n I s s u e

2 TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS

Business of Running a Utility Conference (exhibits & demo)August 3-5, 2011 Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg

Utility Leadership ConferenceNovember 9-11, 2011 Park Vista Hotel, Gatlinburg

Administrative Professionals ConferenceDecember 8-9, 2011 Radisson at Opryland, Nashville

Conference information is subject to change. For the most current information and online registration, please visit www.taud.org.

Tennessee Association of Utility Districts2011-2012 Officers

& Board of DirectorsTom Atchley, President Hendersonville Utility District

Patsy Johnson , Vice-President Old Gainesboro Road Utility DistrictJohn Brown, TreasurerHarpeth Valley Utilities District

Larry McElroy, SecretaryConsolidated Utility District

Nick NewmanMemphis Light, Gas & Water

Charlie AndersonBloomingdale Utility District

Mike BanksWest Knox Utility District

Freddie WestonWest Wilson Utility District

David CallahanSoddy Daisy Utility District

Phillip CombsAlpha-Talbott Utility District

Pat RileyGibson County Utility District

Mike Green Warren County Utility District

David Norton, UMRB Chairman

Larry McElroy, NRWA Director

Mike Wetherington, Associate Advisor American Development Corp.

Bob Freudenthal, Executive Director [email protected] Penny Funk, Office Manager [email protected] Brent Ogles, Education Manager [email protected] (615) 556-6002 John Hall, Advocacy/Finance [email protected] (931) 607-1014 Tonia Pass, Education Administrative Assistant [email protected] Carol Mims, Accountant [email protected] Beth Blackwell-Hardiman, Meeting Planner/Member Services [email protected]

Colleen Sauvé, Publications & Social Media, Receptionist [email protected] John Shadwick, Training Specialist [email protected] (615) 804-4069

Tony Wyatt, West, TN Field [email protected] (731) 415-9101Steve Roberts, East TN, Water Circuit [email protected] (865) 256-5383Bruce Trotter, Middle TN, Water Circuit [email protected] (615) 788-9756Will Taylor, Training Specialist/[email protected] (615) 388-4877Larry Lewis,Source Water Protection [email protected] (731) 234-0360Greg Baker, Groundwater Specialist/IT [email protected] (731) 225-5240Dewayne Culpepper, West TN,Wastewater [email protected](931) 607-6981Dan Martin, East TN, Wastewater [email protected] (931) 312-9405

Upcoming Events

TAUD STAFF

33rd Quarter, volume 25

NEW goes digital

With the advent of tablets, e-readers and more, the digital age provides a new way to access publications formerly available only in print, like the Tennessee Utility News. While print may still be the preferred format for some readers, we now offer the digital format for our virtual readers. Not only does this provide new accessibilty to our readership, but hopefully, it will also allow us to decrease the amount of TUN’s printed in the future. This gives us piece of mind that we can minimize paper waste in the future and gives our readership who uses this new technology another way to view it. Best of all, this new format is free to access, use and subscribe to. In order to subscribe, users are required to create a login and password. To access the new digital format, visit www.taud.org, choose the “Publications” tab, and then

“Tennessee Utility News Magazine” (directions pictured above).

This technology is provided by issuu.com. “It’s our mission to empower individuals, companies, and institutions to publish their documents across all digital platforms. Issuu is the fastest growing digital publishing platform in the world, but also a very popular destination site where people are engaging with the web’s best publications and where publishers build their audience. Many professionals opt for Issuu Pro with additional publishing power.”

Visit taud.org now!Scan this tag with your

smartphone!


Table of Contents

6 TAUD Inaugural Operator Expo Bass Tournament 9 ‘11 Operator Expo Recap10 TAUD Welcomes New Board Members & Associate Advisor13 Water & Electricity Don’t Mix or Do They?15 Young Professionals: Jennifer Wood, E.I.T18 MIC In Fire Sprinkler Systems22 Is Flushing Wasteful?24 Region Recap28 No Lead Ahead - Are You Ready?30 Update on TAUD & TDEC Committee to Develop Regulatory Guidance for the Cross Connection Control Progam32 Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station34 Webb Creek Utility District Celebrates 30 Years36 Associate Meeting Recap37 TUEC Scholarship Golf Tournament38 Water Operator Wordsearch

Can you find the frog hidden somewhere in the graphics or photos of this issue? same size & color as shown here. Answer on page 38. Happy Hunting.

The cover photo for thisissue was provided by

© st-fotograf - Fotolia.com

Tennessee Utility News is published four times a year by the Tennessee

Association of Utility Districts (TAUD). Article submissions & accompanying artwork are welcomed. If you would like to submit to TUN, please contact the publisher, Colleen Sauvé, (615) 896-9022 or [email protected]. The right to edit or deny publishing and

material submitted for publication is reserved by TAUD.

C r o s s C o n n e c t i o n & D i s t r i b u t i o n I s s u e


TAUD Associate SuperboostersDiamond

Affinity Benefits of TennesseeAmerican Development Corp.HDSupply WaterworksKidwell & CompanyMcGill Associates, P.A.McWane Cast Iron Pipe Co.Next Generation UnderwritersSoutheastern Tank, Inc.Wascon, Inc.Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital LLC

PlatinumAmnisosC.I. Thornburg Co., Inc.Compliance EnviroSystems, LLC Crom Corp.ECO-TECH, Inc.Gresham Smith & PartnersGRW Engineers, Inc.Jackson Thornton & Co., P.C.Master Meter, Inc.Performance ContractingRegions Bank Corporate TrustSmith Seckman Reid, Inc.Southern Pipe & SupplyUnited Utilities, Inc.W & W Engineering, LLC

GoldAlliance Water ResourcesISCO IndustriesJohn Bouchard & Sons CompanyM&H Kennedy ValveS & S Utility Sales, LLCSouthern Sales Co.Tennessee 811

SilverBadger Daylighting Corp.Barge Waggoner Sumner & CannonBass, Berry, and SimsBranstetter, Stranch & Jennings

Environmental Science Corp.Hazen and Sawyer, P.C.Hethcoat & Davis, Inc.Instrument & Supply SE, Inc.Jacobs JJGKazmier & Associates, Inc.Kentucky Glass Lined Tank Systems, Inc.Logics, LLCMueller CompanyPinnacle Asset Management/ Raymond JamesStowers Industrial PowerUnited Systems & Software, Inc.USDA Rural DevelopmentVeteran Management SevicesWater Systems OptimizationWiser Company, LLC

Thank You


In the early morning, a fleet of 43 boats and 86 anglers took to the waters of Old Hickory Lake on May 18th to participate in the first Annual TAUD Operator Expo Bass Tournament held at Bull Creek Recreation Area in Gallatin, Tennessee. The fleet of participants came from all across the State of Tennessee as many of the anglers had never fished the waters of the Cumberland River.

At 5:41 am, the boats started their engines, Adam Sharp of Gladeville Utility District began to call each team number as they made their way past the starting buoy line and headed out onto the Cumberland River. The fleet of boats were an impressive sight and hinted of the inaugural tournament’s success. By 6 am, all boats had left the launch site and were fully engaged in finding that “sweet spot” or “honey hole” to land a limit of bass in hopes of winning the tournament.

The Tournament Committee reassembled at the launch site around 11 am to check on and receive reports from select boats on the lake. Danny Lassiter of Gladeville Utility District, reported around 11:30 am that fishing was good, and that he witnessed a lot of anglers with measurable Bass.

Tournament rules stated that each boat must check in at the check point no later than 2 pm. Tournament Coordinator, Dewayne Culpepper happily reported that no boats were declared late to the scales.

As the anglers began loading their rigs and bringing the fish to the weigh-in, many assembled with great interest to see who would place and take home the

TAUD InAUgUrAl OperATOr expO

Bass Tournament

Tournament Coordinator, Dewayne Culpepper of TAUD, and Tournament Director, Kirk Smith of C.I. Thornburg Co. announcing the winners!

Attorney Bob Parker for Harpeth Valley Utilities District proudly poses with his largest catch! Pictured right, his teammate, Thomas Lawrence.


Big Bucket of Cash for the Largest Bass. The Big Bucket of Cash pool reached $370. Assisting Tournament Official, Flipper Copeland, was: Jaimie Hanseroth of C.I. Thornburg Co., Nick Newman of MLGW, Ryan Fields of C.I. Thornburg Co. and Billy Heck of A.Y. McDonald Co. “We appreciate the volunteers who stepped up on tournament day to help,” said Kirk Smith, Tournament Director. “I also want to thank Colleen Sauve of TAUD for taking photos of the anglers as well as getting the information onto the TAUD Facebook page.”

The Tournament Committee was assembled by anglers from Gladeville Utility District. After learning of their involvement in other organized fishing events, GUD’s Danny Lassiter and Adam Sharp were tabbed by Tournament Director, Kirk Smith. “This was just a natural fit to have them step up and help us get this program together,” said Smith.

Penny Sutherland of Hartsville Water and Sewer assisted the committee and helped coordinate the Anglers Cookout held that night at the Ward Ag Center.

This tournament would not have been possible without its sponsors. TAUD thanks the following sponsors for their support: Wascon Inc., HD Supply Waterworks , American Development Corporation, Volunteer Utility Sales Inc., C.I. Thornburg Co., S &S Utility Sales LLC., Southern Sales Co., and Regions Bank Corporate Trust.

Results on next page...

TAUD Board Member, Nick Newman of Memphis Light Gas & Water, measured each fish looking for entries for the Largest Bass competition.

Patriotic boater passed by the boat slip.

Ryan Fields & Jaimie Hanseroth of C.I. Thornburg Co. and Billy Heck of A.Y. McDonald

Tournament Coordinator, Dewayne Culpepper and his wife, Shelia headed to the buoy check point to make sure all the anglers come back on time.


THe reSUlTSThe 1st place team with a combined total weight of 15.85 lbs was Jeremy Walker and Derek Dwyer of Harpeth Valley Utilities District. They took home the Grand Prize of $800. 2nd place went to Next Generation Underwriters, David Pemberton and Brian Thomas, with a combined total weight of 14.50 lbs. They were also the recipients of the Big Bucket of Cash for the Largest Bass, with a 7.15 lbs Largemouth Bass, totaling a prize earning of $670. In 3rd Place with a combined total weight of 13.15 lbs. were Brad Henley and John Parsons from West Wilson Utility District. They took home a prize earning of $150. In 4th Place with a combined total weight of 12.35 lbs was Sam Miller of the Stringfellow Company. Miller took home a prize earning of $100.00. A total of 38 boats out of the 43 boats entered their catch at the weigh-in with several impressive catches.

The plans for next year’s event are already underway as we move forward with making this event an annual TAUD Bass Tournament in conjunction with the Operator Expo. For more information on becoming a committee volunteer, participating angler or sponsorship opportunities, contact the Tournament Coordinator, Dewayne Culpepper (931) 607-6981 or email [email protected] or Tournament Director, Kirk Smith (615) 509-9338 or by email [email protected].

TAUD would like to thank Dewayne Culpepper and Kirk Smith for their dedication in organizing this event.

TAUD Executive Director, Bob Freudenthal, pictured with first place winners Jeremy Walker and Derek Dwyer of Harpeth Valley Utilities District

TAUD Executive Director, Bob Freudenthal, pictured with second place winners Brian Thomas and David Pemberton of Next Generation Underwriters

Winning Catch for the Cash for the Largest Bass Prize!

TAUD Executive Director, Bob Freudenthal, pictured with third place winners Brad Henley and John Parsons of West Wilson Utility District

TAUD Executive Director, Bob Freudenthal, pictured with fourth place winner Sam Miller of Stringfellow Company


11’ Operator ExpoRecap

The 2011 Operator Expo held on May 19th at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon broke an attendance record with over 1,225 attendees. New to the Expo this year was the Operator Trivia Challenge, the Wastewater Camera Challenge sponsored by W.M. McClain, the Leak Repair Challenge sponsored by G & C Supply and the Backflow Repair Challenge sponsored by TBPA. We appreciate our sponsors and those that participated to make these contests successful.

Scan the MStag to watch the winning

team of the Leak Repair Challenge sponsored by G&C Supply.

TAUD Executive Director, Bob Freudenthal, presented David St.John the Everett Sever’s Award for Water Operator of the Year!

Special guest speaker TDEC Division of Water Supply Director, Alan Schwendimann


TAUD Welcomes New Board Members & Associate Advisor

Pat Riley is the General Manager of the Gibson County Utility District. Pat has been in the natural gas industry for 31 years and has served in numerous leadership positions including past president and current board member of the West Tennessee Gas Association; and past president, committee member

and current executive board member of the Tennessee Gas Association. Pat also serves on the TAUD Finance and Legislative Committees. Pat received the TAUD M.M Bullard Award in 2002 and 2010 and currently serves on the TAUD Scholarship Committee. He is extremely active within his community

as a member of the Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce Board of Director, and WestStar Coordinator for Gibson and Crockett Counties. He and his wife Julie are members of First Baptist Church and very active within the church and in their spare time enjoy fishing, golfing, and home restoration.

Mike Green is the General Manager of Warren County Utility District. He began his career with WCUD in 1988 as a meter reader working in the district’s distribution department. He was appointed to a management position in 1994 and was later named as General Manager. He serves on TAUD’s Training and

Pat Riley

Mike Green


Finance Committees and the Ad-Hoc committee for Cross Connection Control. Mike has two children Nathaniel and Meagan and in his spare time enjoys spending time with them.

Mike Wetherington is owner of American Development Corporation in Fayetteville. ADC has been an active Associate Member of TAUD since 1996, and Mike has served on numerous committees throughout the years. Mike was the TAUD Associate Member of the year in 1996 and 2002. He was elected Associate

Advisor to the Board in 2001-2002. In 2007 American Development Corporation received the Torch Award for Business. He and his wife Merinda have two children Morgan and Jackson. In his spare time he enjoys baseball and golf.

This June the delegation at the Annual Meeting elected Tom Atchley of Hendersonville Utility District as President of the TAUD Board of Directors. Also, Patsy Johnson of Old Gainesboro Road Utility District was elected as Vice President. John Brown of Harpeth Valley Utilities District resumes his role as Treasurer. Also resuming his role this year is secretary Larry McElroy of Consolidated Utility Districts.

TAUD Board meeetings are held the second Tuesday of every month unless otherwise noted. Board members are elected each year in conjunction with the Annual Meeting held in Murfreesboro each June. All TAUD members are welcome to attend Board of DIrectors meetings. To be added to the Board Meeting notification list, please make your request to Penny Funk by email, [email protected].

Mike Wetherington


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Water & Electricity Don’t Mix or Do They?

David AmburgeyOld Hickory Utility District

Have you ever been shocked or jolted while taking a drink from a water fountain, taking a shower or even worse, have you ever heard of a water utility operator being electrocuted while repairing a water main? It’s probably not something you think could happen, but the employees of The Old Hickory Utility District know the danger all too well.

Following a Spring storm including hail, heavy rainfall and high winds, everything seemed normal at the utility district. The typical workday began, thankfully storm damage appeared minimal or so they thought. The district received a call from a customer stating that water was leaking in the street. The first thought was that this could not be a leak. The majority of the district’s leaks occur during the winter months, and the area had just been hit with heavy rainfall, so it was thought to be rain water. District employees investigated the call and indeed found water flowing out of a water valve box. This was odd due to the fact that the leaking valve wasn’t very old. The asphalt repair patch was still visible in the street from the valve installation. The employees continued with normal

procedures to repair the leak. An emergency locator was called, and after the utilities were located, they began an excavation.

The excavation proceeded as planned. The operator excavated the site until the leak was visible. Once visible, it was determined the couplings used during the original valve replacement were leaking, and it would be an easy fix. The district employees felt that someone did not tighten the couplings enough, and they had shifted loose through time to develop a leak. The plan was to simply re-tighten the coupling bolts, backfill the site, and the job would be done.

That wasn’t the case, and this is where the story takes a more serious turn. An operator got into the excavation site and examined the leak. In the process, he placed his hand on the water main and suddenly pulled it back. The operator stated he was shocked and that the water main was electrified somehow. The water operator exited the excavation and the local electric utility was called to investigate the area. After a quick investigation, the electric utility found nothing out of the ordinary and offered a pair of insulated gloves to use during the leak repair. While the insulated gloves were being located, the backhoe operator continued to excavate the site and clear more soil from the area near the water main. While in the process of clearing the site, the backhoe bucket came into close proximity with the main and an electrical arc shot from the main to the bucket. The electric utility was again notified that something was not quite right. About the same time a report came in that a cable tv repair technician was also shocked down the street. When this happened all work in the area was stopped by the electric utility until a more in depth investigation could be completed. During the investigation a fallen tree limb was discovered laying across the electric power lines about a block from the water leak. Apparently the tree limb had caused a hot electric line to come into contact with the neutral/ground line, which sends electrical current into the ground. Several residences had their electrical panels grounded to the internal plumbing system, and


this caused the electrical current to travel back to the water system mains. (see illustration I-A) The amount of electricity traveling through the water system was so significant, it actually melted the rubber gaskets in the repair couplings, which were used to install the valve. (see coupling photo below)

Shortly after this incident, the district began to hear horror stories from customers who claimed they had been shocked while taking a shower. One customer whose water heater had not been working claimed to have hot water during this time. The district and electric utility were fortunate no employees or customers were injured or worst, killed during this incident.

The utilities plan to use this experience to try and prevent this situation from happening in the future. The Old Hickory Utility District plans to implement new safety procedures to follow during leak repairs. One thing a water utility can do if it suspects the water main to have electric current is to first contact the electric utility and request the electricity be disconnected. If the electricity cannot be disconnected, a good procedure to use is to install grounding cables across two pieces of pipe before any pipe sections, meters, etc. are removed or repaired. (see illustration I-C & I-D)

It is important that every repair be taken seriously. If something doesn’t seem right investigation must follow. The safety of employees and customers comes first. Utilities must work together to determine the problem as well as the safest way to solve it.

Illustrations A,C & D


Young Professionals: Jennifer Wood, E.I.TInterviewed by Tonia Pass

Education Administrative Assistant

Q: What is your job title?A: An engineer at Consolidated Utility District of Rutherford County.

Q: What are some of your daily/weekly duties?A: I initially developed and currently manage our hydraulic model which includes running “what if” scenarios on new projects, identifying problem areas, running fire hydrant flow analyses, performing water age calculations, etc. I use this in coordination with our SCADA software to monitor the system and identify leaks and potential problem areas in our system.

Q: What drew you to this line of work?A: To be honest, my aunt told me one day when I was in high school that she thought I would make a good engineer. I was good in math and science and thought “Hmm, maybe I would.” So, to engineering school I went. During college, I spent time in the different specialties of civil engineering either in the form of an internship or just in my studies and found that I was more

interested in water than in buildings or roads.

Q: What is your educational background?A: I received my Bachelor of Science in Engineering from UT Martin, and I am currently completing my Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, MO (formerly University of Missouri – Rolla). That is my background, but I believe education is a continual process.

Q: What did you want to be when you grew up?A: I went through many stages. First, I wanted to be a pediatrician. To tell you the truth, I’m not entirely sure why I decided against that other than having to take anatomy and physiology. Next, because I participated in mock trial sessions in high school, I thought I may want to be a lawyer. History was low on my list of interests, so that was scratched off the list rather quickly. Because I was involved with my high school newspaper, I also thought about journalism. I realized I couldn’t just become an editor from the beginning which is the aspect I loved, so that too was crossed off the list. I loved numbers and science, so when my aunt introduced me to the idea of engineering, I reasoned that if I didn’t like it, I could always choose an alternate career path. As it turned out, engineering was the perfect fit.

Q: What do you love most about your job?A: I love the fact that no two days are the same. The next new challenge is always around the corner—we may have a pump fail, a leak causing systemic problems, an unhappy customer, a new development wanting fire protection or uncharacteristic low pressure. A utility takes an entire team of people to solve problems, and I am happy to be a part of that team.

Jennifer Wood, E.I.T, Consolidated Utility District of Rutherford County.


Q: What is your philosophy on work and life?A: They are one in the same—I strive to be the best I can be while upholding my morals and values of a Christian woman. There are times I succeed and times I fail. Each success and failure teaches me something about myself.

Q: What community services do you involve yourself?A: This is definitely an area I can grow in and expand. I have been involved with a program through the Boy Scouts of America, which gives high school students a look into career areas that they are interested. CUD is the host for the students interested in engineering. I am amazed at the low interest in math and science in regards to engineering. My husband and I also attend New Vision Baptist Church and try to be involved with the community in that aspect, from community help days to helping with Sunday school.

Q: Have you experienced any challenges upon entering the utility industry?A: My first challenge entering the utility industry was that I knew absolutely nothing about it—I mean, zilch. I was fresh out of school with only the intern experience I gained on the consulting side of engineering. I was introduced to GIS, hydraulic modeling and what a tapping sleeve was all at the same time, which was definitely a challenge. Being a woman in a man’s world also has its own challenges, but I knew that going into engineering and the utility industry. The key is to be yourself and respect other people—you will gain respect from others in return regardless of gender.

Q: What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as a young professional?A: I was honored to be one of the few selected to participate and graduate in the 2010 class of Leadership Rutherford. It was an eye-opening experience, and I recommend any professional in the Rutherford County area to apply. The knowledge and skill that I have gained in hydraulic modeling over the past couple of years is also an accomplishment I greatly value.

Q: What challenges do you foresee within the utility industry in the next 10 years?A: The concern of all water utilities in the next 10 years is going to be water supply. The challenge that accompanies that will be how to solve the problem. This will take a tremendous unified planning effort from city managers and planners, utilities, elected officials, those who manage our water supply and customers. A city cannot build first then solve the utility problems second—a regional plan has to be a priority and a guideline for future development.

Q: What advice do you have for other young professionals considering working in the utility industry?A: For someone who is still in school and considering the utility industry, I would suggest applying for an internship at a utility to gain experience. On the water utility side, I would recommend taking classes or continuing education in the areas of hydraulics, water treatment, etc.


Jack Poole, PE and Michael Nightingale Poole Fire Protection

This article is intended to serve as an introduction to Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC), what it is, how it is typically treated and what cross-connection control measures should be implemented. In general, the fire protection sprinkler industry does not consider corrosion as a significant issue to sprinkler systems.

MIC is defined as “a mode of corrosion incorporating microbes that react and cause the corrosion or influence other corrosion processes of metallic materials.” Microbial corrosion, or bacteria corrosion, is a form of corrosion that is caused or promoted by bacteria or microorganisms. MIC is not caused by a single microbe, but can be attributed to many different microbes or the reaction between different microbes. These different types of microorganisms live on the nutrients in the water or the pipe, and react with the products of other microorganism reactions and pipe material. MIC refers to corrosion and ensuring loss of metal caused by biological acid producing organisms. Generally, these microorganisms form colonies on the surface of a metal, producing slimes that collect and adhere deposits to the metal.

Typically the entire surface, or at least the wetted surface, of metal sprinkler pipe is affected by general corrosion; however, MIC, on the other hand, is very localized. There are two classifications for the types of bacteria that cause MIC, aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic type require oxygen in order to survive, whereas anaerobic do not. Upon filling the sprinkler system with water these bacteria are introduced into the piping system. While oxygen is still present in the water the aerobic bacteria begin to corrode the interior of the pipe. As oxygen is depleted the aerobic bacteria die off and the anaerobic bacteria continue to corrode the pipe walls. A common type of bacteria found in anaerobic environments is sulfate-reducing bacteria. Sulfate-reducing bacteria produce a sulfur acid, which can cause stress cracking. In the presence of oxygen, some bacteria directly oxidize iron-to-iron oxides and hydroxides, and other bacteria can react with the sulfur to produce sulfuric acid.

During the lifecycle of a sprinkler system, water will be drained from, and added to, the piping system due to inspections, testing, and periodic maintenance. The addition of new water into the sprinkler system can revitalize the oxygen dependant aerobic bacteria, which can lead to accelerated corrosion. MIC feeds on the pipe materials which creates a nodule and a pit beneath the nodule. There might be only a few nodules or there can be many. Within these nodules microbes rarely work alone, but operate as a mixed community of differing types and groups. Bacteria cells often form

MIC in Fire Sprinkler Systems

End of sprinkler pipe showing corrosion near the coupling

Exterior sprinkler pipe corrosion cased from MIC - pinhole leak

Sludge slime inside sprinkler possible MIC bacteria

Sludge slime inside pipe fittingpossible MIC bacteria


in the deposits of corrosion products, causing and enhancing their rate of corrosion and destruction. This corrosion and pitting will also decrease the flow characteristics of the water traveling through the pipe. Additionally, this can lead to rust that has the potential to plug sprinklers, valves and potentially cause blockage of the sprinkler pipe. It is estimated that approximately 20 - 40% of all sprinkler pipe corrosion problems are caused by aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.Dry pipe systems are not immune to the effects of MIC. The residual water, sometimes caused by condensation, which remains in fittings, drops, and trapped sections of pipe, suffer from corrosion. In many cases the corrosive effects are more acute in dry systems due the increased oxygen in the relatively empty (no water) pipe and fittings.

National Fire Protection Association (FPA) 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, requires the water supplies to be evaluated for the existence of microbes and conditions that contribute to MIC. When conditions are found that contribute to MIC, a plan shall be developed to treat the system by one of the following methods:• Install a water pipe that will not be affected by the MIC microbes.• Treat all water that enters the system using an approved biocide.• Implement an approved plan for monitoring the interior conditions of the pipe and established time intervals and locations.• Install a corrosion monitoring station and monitor at established intervals.

NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, (2008 Edition), Section 14.2.1 requires “an inspection of piping and branch line conditions shall be conducted every 5 years by flushing connection at the end of one main and by removing a sprinkler toward the end of one branch line for the purpose of inspecting for the presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.” The following Section 14.2.2, requires that if tubercles or slime is found, a sample shall be tested for indications of microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC). Detection methods for MIC include pinhole leaks, visual inspections of debris and plugging inside the pipes, coloration or smell of the stagnant water, and water testing by a microbiologist or metallurgical engineer.

Currently there are several methods to combat the MIC problems. These include chemical treatments, flushing, mechanical cleaning, and pipe replacement. It is important that these sprinkler system cross-connections are assessed

• TANK RENOVATIONS• STATE REQUIRED INSPECTIONS

• ROBOTIC UNDERWATER INSPECTIONS• MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS

• REPAIRS - LADDER GATES

297623_brown.indd 1 8/31/06 3:14:59 PM


to determine the level of hazard present to determine the correct level of backflow protection to be provided. It is known in the Cross-Connection Control industry that a standard wet-pipe sprinkler system (without any chemical additives) is typically protected with a double-check backflow prevention assembly. However, if the sprinkler system has been chemically treated for MIC, it is important to utilize a reduce pressure principle type backflow prevention assembly to protect the cross-connection to the drinking water supply.

Several chemical treatment systems are commercially available to treat MIC in fire sprinkler systems. Some of the companies that sell MIC treatment systems include:• Huguenot Laboratories – Port Jervis, NY• fpsCMI – Saint Louis, MO• Potter Corrosion Solutions – Hazelwood, MO• Liberty Corrosion Solutions – Mesquite, TX

The International Plumbing Code (2006), Section 608.16.4.1 states: “Additives or non potable source. Where systems under continuous pressure contain chemical additives or antifreeze, or where systems are connected to a non potable secondary water supply, the potable water supply shall be protected against backflow by a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer.” To minimize the risk of MIC entering the potable water a backflow prevention assembly should be required. When chemicals are used to treat or reduce the impact of MIC a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly is required to be installed.Once a backflow prevention assembly has been installed on the sprinkler system, NFPA 13 requires that means for forward flow testing shall be provided on the system. Often a backflow prevention assembly will remain in the closed position until the system is inspected, tested or maintained, which is typically annually. Depending on quality of the water, some deposits or calcium may build up on the internal components of the backflow prevention assembly, which may not allow it to fully open in the event of a fire, causing inadequate water supply to the sprinkler system. Therefore, this forward flow testing is intended to exercise the internal components of the backflow prevention assembly. The minimum flow rate required by NFPA 13 to achieve this forward flow testing is the demand of the sprinkler system. This includes hose stream

demand if the facility is provided with standpipes.

In summary, we now understand that MIC is a process which involves bacteria that can accelerate corrosion in fire sprinkler systems, causing pinhole leaks or obstruction to the flow of water through the pipe and sprinklers. MIC is typically treated chemically by a biocide, and when this chemical treatment is implemented, reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assemblies should be installed to protect the public water supply. Furthermore, it is understood that when a backflow prevention assembly is installed on the sprinkler system, means to achieve a forward flow test shall be provided to make sure the assembly is exercised so it will open fully when needed

Reprinted from “ABPA News Magazine”, January/February 2011 Issue, Copyright 2011 by The American Backflow Prevention Association . PO Box 3051 . Bryan, TX 77805-3051 . 979.846.7606, used by permission.

Additional notes from Brent Ogles, TAUD Education ManagerOne method to reduce the damage caused by MIC is frequent flushing. While this may improve water quality inside the fire sprinkler system, it increases the amount of unaccounted for water for the water system. Since fire sprinkler systems are often unmetered, the systems have no record of this unauthorized water use. Where excessive unaccounted water use is suspected, efforts should be made to monitor water use.

It should be noted that NFPA standards are only enforceable if a state or other governing body adopts them. If these NFPA standards were enforced at the State level in Tennessee, it would be through the Department of Commerce and Insurance, the Division of Fire Protection. It does not appear that this office is requiring the evaluation and remediation plan addressed in the NFPA standards relating to MIC but they have stated in an email that it is the owner’s responsibility to mitigate MIC.


Is Flushing Wasteful?

Routine flushing of water mains can be controversial in many water systems. Operators know that it is a necessity to provide clean safe water to their customers and to meet water quality parameters. Some customers object when water from flushing floods their yards, gardens, etc., while others complain when sediment or air shows up in their water from lack of flushing. Utility officials or mayors may comment that flushing water onto the ground is a waste of water and therefore a waste of money. Occasionally these officials have stopped operators from routine flushing. So, what do the rules say about the kind of flushing program that a utility must have?

1200-5-1.17(10) All community water systems having more than 50 service connections shall establish and maintain an adequate flushing program. The flushing program established shall help ensure that dead end and low usage mains are flushed periodically, drinking water standards are met, sediment and air removal and the free chlorine residual specified under Rule 1200-5-1.17(4) is maintained. Records of each flushing are to be maintained by the water system. These records shall include date, time, location, persons responsible and length of flushing. In addition to the above information, the free chlorine residual will have to be measured and recorded on the end of dead end mains after being flushed.

The rule above indicates that the purpose of the flushing program is to provide a safe high quality water supply to the utility’s customers. Air and debris can enter and accumulate in a distribution system. Disinfectant residuals can deplete due to low usage and chlorine demand in the water lines. Disinfectants may also combine with materials in the system to form undesirable byproducts such as trihalomethanes. An adequate flushing program can correct each of these situations. But what constitutes an adequate flushing program? Is once a year sufficient to maintain a desirable water supply or do you need to flush more often? This depends on several factors such as the

layout of your distribution system. A system with long mains with few customers may require more frequent flushing to maintain the required chlorine residual or prevent the buildup of disinfection byproducts. The type of pipe in the distribution system and the water quality can also be factors that affect the need for increased flushing.

Many distribution systems are well served by a systematic flushing of the entire distribution system once or twice per year. A systematic flushing consists of starting at the source, whether it is the treatment plant, master meter or a tank, and flushing hydrants and blow-offs along the main until the end of the main is reached. In this type of flushing, debris or air that is not completely removed at one flush point will be drawn along the main until it is removed at the end. Systems that have loops may require that valves be closed to create dead ends to flush toward. This type of flushing must be conducted at adequate velocities to scour the inside of the main, breaking debris free to be flushed out of the main. This cannot be accomplished with a 3/4” tap on a large line or simply cracking a hydrant open and leaving it running for several hours. The Design Criteria for water systems has this to say about blow-offs and flushing velocities:9.0.3 Dead Ends b. Where dead-end mains occur they should be provided with a fire hydrant, when fire flows are available, or blow-off for flushing purposes. The blow-off shall be at least 2 inches in diameter, but should provide flushing velocities of 2 feet per second or greater.

In addition to the routine flushing mentioned above, most systems require more frequent flushing of problem areas such as dead-ends where debris collects more often or low usage areas where the chlorine residual is difficult to maintain. Some systems have areas that may require

Tony WyattTAUD West, TN Field Supervisor


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flushing weekly or more often. In these cases where frequent flushing is necessary to maintain water quality, an automatic flush valve may be beneficial. These valves can be set to flush for a predetermined time in the middle of the night when customers will not notice. Additional flushing is often required following the repair of water mains when debris or air has gotten into the line.

While there is no “one size fits all” flushing program for every distribution system, customer complaints, chlorine residuals and disinfection byproduct levels can be good indicators of the effectiveness of your program.

Remember to always keep good records of all flushing conducted. The amount of water used for flushing will be necessary when calculating the water loss for your system. You can visit the TAUD website at www.taud.org for free downloads that may be useful, such as an example written flushing program plan, forms and flow calculators. To access these downloads, click the “Resources” tab on the homepage and select “Downloads.” These downloads will be available in the “Water” category.


Region Recap

Region meetings are held quarterly throughout the year. These meet-ings provide a unique opportunity to network with people in the util-ity industry. Speakers discuss top-ics that are current, informative and beneficial to utilities and relat-ed industries. Some recent topics include: updates on training, indus-try rules, reporting and regulation, stimulus money availability, insur-ance provisions, workplace safety, and what’s upcoming in new and innovative smart technology. TAUD encourages you to be ‘in-the-know’ and get involved in your region.

Region 1 Fred Hicks, Region Leader

April 21, 2011Comfort Inn, Greeneville

65 attendees

TN’s Best Tasting Water ContestJudges: Allen Hawk RDA, Bill Snodgrass of Congressman Roe’s office and Lana Moore of Senator Alexander’s office.

Contestants: Bristol Water System, Brownlow Utility District, Greeneville Water Commission, Bloomingdale Utility District,

Lakeview Utility District, Erwin Utilities, Kingsport Water System, Cold Springs Utility District and Carderview Utility District

Winner: Lakeview Utility District

Speakers/Presenters: Cathy Walden, W&W, Jonathan Cum-mings, WASCON, Holly Austin, TN811, Kevin Rice, Johnson City EFO, Allen Hawk, USDA RD, Lana Moore for Senator Alexander, Bill Snodgrass for Congressman Roe, Kirk Smith, C.I.Thornburg Co., Bob Freudenthal, Steve Roberts, and Larry Lewis, TAUD

Thank You: W&W Engineer-ing, McGill Associates, Southern Pipe & Supply, WASCON, Fulghum Macindoe Engineers and Littlejohn Engineers.

Next Meeting: TBA

Region 2 Drexel Heidel, Region Leader

June 1, 2011Industrial Plastic Works

55 attendees

Speakers/Presenters: Billy Lasiter, Pro Metering Technology (EMEC

Pumps), Randy Zimmer, PolyPro-cessing Corp., Bryan Holt, Industrial Plastic Works, Dan Martin and Steve Roberts, TAUD

Thank You: ADC, IPW, Brown Painting, Microbac, TN811, Scien-tific Sales, A.Y. McDonald Mfg., C.I. Thornburg Co., United Utilities, CSA, Pro Metering Technology and Trilec

Next Meeting: September 7th

Region 3 Jimmy Langley, Region Leader

June 9, 2011Cove Lake State Park

40 attendees

Speakers/Presenters: Bryan Holt, Industrial Plastic Works, Marisol Torres, USDA RD, Randy Gray, Kelly Tratongo, Lexis-Nexis, Jimmy Langley, LBCUD, Steve Bolton, Inman & Associates, Will Taylor, Steve Roberts, TAUD

Thank You: W&W Engineering, Inman & Associates

Next Meeting: September 8th


Combined MeetingRegion 4 & Region 10

Vickie Houston, Region 4 LeaderTim Lawson, Region 10 Leader

May 12, 2011Fall Creek Falls State Park

82 attendees

TN’s Best Wastewater Effluent Contest

Judges: Clay Copeland, Chris Hampton of RD and Alan Schwen-dimann, TDEC Division of Water Supply Director.

Contestants: Byrdstown Water & Wastewater Dept. and West Warren-Viola Utility District

Winner: West Warren-Viola Utility District

Speakers/Presenters: Jerry Conner, Master Meter, Duke Julian, United Utilities, Simon Wick, Matchpoint, Scott Holder, TN811, Randy Gray, Kellie Tralongo, Lexis-Nexis, Jason Griffin, Randy Curtis, Gresham Smith & Partners, Kirk Smith, C.I. Thornburg Co., Alan Schwendimann, TDEC Division of Water Supply, Chris Hampton, USDA RD, Chuck Hammonds, ETDD, Bob Freuden-thal, Dan Martin, Bruce Trotter and Larry Lewis, TAUD

Thank You: Gresham Smith &

Partners, United Utilities, Master Meter. Also, thank you to the door prize contributors: ADC, IPQ, ISCO, Southern Pipe & Supply, Microbac Laboratories Inc.,

Trilec, McGill Asso-ciates, P.A., TN811 and Central Service

Association

Next Meeting: August 18th

Region 5 Tom Faulk, Region Leader

May 5, 2011West Wilson Utility District

53 attendees

TN’s Best Tasting Water ContestJudges: Kathy Quartermaine,TN811, Terence McGee, RD, Mehdi Sadri, Wayne Stuck, Nashville EFO.

Contestants: Hendersonville Utility District, West Wilson Utility District, Old Hickory Utility District, Port-land Utility System, Gladeville Util-ity District and Madison Suburban Utility District

Winner: Gladeville Utility District

Speakers/Presenters: Wayne Stuck, Nashville EFO, Kevin Pome-roy, Brown & Brown, Jerry Cravins, WASCON

Thank You: Brown & Brown and WASCON. Also, thank you to the door prize contributors: ADC, ISCO, Trilec and IPW


Region 6 Kenneth Carr, Region Leader

April 27, 2011American Development

Corporation Office60 attendees

TN’s Best Tasting Water ContestJudges: Lynda Potts, Leadership Marshall, Barbara Woods, Lewis-burg Mayor, Peggy Bevels, Lincoln County Mayor, Congressman Scott DeJarlais, Joe Liggett, Marshall County Mayor

Contestants: Lincoln County Board of Public Utilities, Fayette-ville Public Utilities, Murfreesboro Water & Sewer, Spring Hill Water Works, Duck River Utility Commis-sion, Bedford County Utility Dis-trict, Consolidated Utility District, Lewisburg Water & Wastewater and Winchester Utilities

Winner: Lincoln County Board of Public Utilities

Speakers/Presenters: Mike Weth-erington, ADC, Congressman Scott DeJarlais, Jonathan Boyce, USDA RD, Kirk Smith, C.I. Thornburg Co., Kevin Pomeroy, Brown & Brown, Bob Freudenthal and Larry Lewis, TAUD

Region 5, TN’s Best Tasting Water Contest Judges examining the water samples

Region 4 judges and winners pictured from left to right: Alan Schwendimann, Chris Hampton, Clay Copeland, Dennis South, Chris Thompson and Jack Huddleston


Thank You: Brown & Brown Insurance. Also thank you to door prize contributors: ADC and C.I. Thornburg.

Next Meeting: TBA

Region 7 Annie Chiodo, Region Leader

April 6, 2011Bradley’s Restaurant30 people attended

TN’s Best Tasting Water Contest

Judges: Doug Shelton, RDA, Kim Eakes, Griggs & Maloney Inc. and Bill Beasley, Heartland Pump Rental & Sales Inc.

Contestants: Linden Utilities, Waynesboro Utilities, Parsons Utility System and Lawrenceburg Utility Systems

Winner: Parsons Utility System

Speakers/Presenters: Ken Albaugh, Heartland Pump Rental & Sales, Sandra Smart, Herren Bell Boss, Doug Shelton, USDA RD, Tony Wyatt, Dewayne Culpepper and Larry Lewis, TAUD

Thank You: Heartland Pump Rent-al & Sales and Herron Bell Boss. Also, thank you to the door prize contributors: ADC and Heartland Pump Rental & Sales.

Next Meeting: TBA

Region 8 JD Dethloff, Region Leader

April 14, 2011Gibson County EMA

32 attendees


Judges: Tyler Hays, RD, Tony Bur-ris, Mayor of Trenton, Danny Jones, Trenton Gazette and Kirk Smith, C.I. Thornburg

Contestants: Gibson County Munic-ipal Water District, Kenton Utilities, Rutherford Water Dept., Newbern Water & Sewer, Trenton Light & Water, Dyer Public Works, Bradford Water System, Dresden Water & Sewer, County Wide Utility District of Crockett County and Ripley Util-ity System

Winner: Dyer Public Works

Speakers/Presenters: Brenda Horner, USDA RD, Roy Corley, Jackson EFO, Kirk Smith, C.I. Thornburg Co., Tony Wyatt, Dew-ayne Culpepper and Greg Baker, TAUD

Thank You: Alliance Water Resources. Also, thank you to the door prize contributors: ADC

Next Meeting: TBA

Region 9 Scott Miller, Region Leader

June 16, 2011Dickson Country Club

34 attendees

Speakers/Presenters: Tim Geraghty, Alliance Water, Ryan Fields, C.I. Thornburg Co., Michael Murphy, Bill Wells, Nashville EFO, Donna Duncan, USDA RD, Tony Wyatt, Dewayne Culpepper, TAUD

Thank You: Alliance Water Resources and C.I. Thornburg Co. Also, thank you to those who con-

tributed door prizes: ADC, Mueller and Hayes Pipe

Next Meeting: September 22nd

Region 10 Tim Lawson, Region Leader

Combined Meeting, see Region 4


Region 11Chandrika Winston, Region Leader

May 11, 2011Jackson Energy Authority

51 people attended


Judges: Steve Bowers, WNWS Radio 101.5, Kirk Smith, C.I. Thorn-burg Co., Dan Morris, Jackson Sun

Contestants: Selmer Utility District, Brownsville Utilities, First Utility District of Tipton County, Oakland Water System, Memphis Light Gas & Water, Germantown Water Sys-tem, Stanton Water System, Munford Utilities and Jackson Energy Author-ity

Winner: Stanton Water System

Speakers/Presenters: Pete Traut-man, Underground Solutions and David Nitmz, Sensus

Thank You: Underground Solu-tions and C.I. Thornburg Co. Also, thank you to the door prize con-tributors: ADC, TN811 and IPW



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Ready for the Federal Reduction of Lead In Drinking Water Act Effective Jan. 1, 2014?

F. Alan ShirkA.Y. McDonald Inc.

For more than two decades, the manufacturer of waterworks brass, plumbing products, pumps, water systems, high-pressure gas valves and meter bars has focused on perfecting its lead-free line of waterworks brass products and educating its utility customers, distributors and others about successfully complying with the new Federal Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act going into effect January 4, 2014.

A.Y. McDonald is headquartered in Dubuque, Iowa with a major distribution center in Elizabethton, Tenn. President Mike McDonald, whose great-great grandfather founded the business in 1856, said the new law reduces the allowable lead content of any water system component that comes into contact with potable water to a weighted average of only 0.25 percent.

“This is a bulldozer coming down the road. It is a major change. As one of the first manufacturers in the industry to offer a complete line of no-lead valves and fittings, A.Y. McDonald has been researching and preparing for this legislation for more than two decades. Our job is to educate,” he stressed.

Lead content in drinking water has long been a concern of industry, government and environmental organizations because of the metal’s harmful effects to the human nervous system and brain development. Until the latest law, however, the maximum allowable lead content of drinking water pipes and fittings has been 8 percent, as

dictated by the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1975 (amended 1986 and 1996).

The state of California has been a leader in the effort to make no-lead brass the industry standard. Los Angeles became the first city in the country to transition to no-lead brass, for which A.Y. McDonald provided the industry’s first no-lead brass corporation and curb stops.

A.Y. McDonald Marketing VP Scott Knapp said California set the tone for the nation in 2006, when Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill 1953, reducing the maximum allowable lead content of plumbing pipes and fixtures to a weighted average of 0.25 percent. Already the industry leader in no-lead service brass.

“California set the tone for the industry,” said McDonald, “and because we had taken a proactive approach in developing no-lead products long before the legislation passed, we were prepared for the increased demand when the state law went into effect. Now we’re prepared and excited for the increased demand on a national scale, including throughout Tennessee.”

Knapp said the new Federal law is mostly based on the California legislation which went into effect January 1, 2010. Vermont enacted its own “0.25” law which went into effect the same date as California, while Maryland begins enforcing its law January 1, 2012. However, beginning in 2014, all states will be required to comply with the new Federal law.

A few problems occurred in California that Tennessee


could avoid in 2014. According to Knapp, “There was a lot of confusion about what exactly had to be done, how to dispose of inventory, who was covered. One person said, ‘I don’t need it, I’m with the government.’”

Knapp said that on January 1, 2014, the sale of valves, fittings and fixtures with a weighted average lead content of more than 0.25 percent will be prohibited for any use with potable water. “That means if you are caught with a large inventory, you cannot install it or sell it to anyone,” Knapp said.

McDonald said manufacturers, utilities, distributors and others have to “back up the entire distribution chain to the manufacturer, who is the first line of defense.” For example, after June 2013, A.Y. McDonald may no longer guarantee delivery of leaded waterworks brass products. That gives us time to flush our own inventory.

“A proactive utility will start a day before we do. In fact, if I was a water utility, I would convert right now,” said McDonald.

Developing a lead-free product required a lot of experimentation with alloy formulations and processes, said A.Y. McDonald Engineering VP Steve Tefft.

“Our waterworks brass products currently contain nominally 85 percent copper, 5 percent lead, 5 percent tin and 5 percent zinc. We could not reduce copper content due to corrosion concerns and wanted to keep tin content high for added strength and corrosion resistance. We had some margin with zinc, but did not want to increase its percentage content. We experimented with various percentages of bismuth, which is next to lead on the Periodic Table, to replace lead, which helps provide pressure tightness in castings and good machining characteristics.

“Once we had a workable formula, we went through a lot of casting and machining tests, and corrosion studies. The bottom line is our lead-free products perform equally to our traditional leaded products,” Tefft said.

All A.Y. McDonald no-lead waterworks brass products

meet the requirements of UNS Copper Alloy C89833 per ASTM B584-09a, in addition to being ANSI/NSF 61 and 372 certified.

For more information, visit A.Y. McDonald’s special website (www.noleadbrass.com), the company website (www.aymcdonald.com), or e-mail [email protected].


Update on TAUD & TDEC Committee to Develop Regulatory Guidance for the Cross Connection Control Program

Brent OglesTAUD Education Manager

Early in 2011, TAUD formed an ad hoc committee to discuss TDEC’s requirement of the 5% inspection of unprotected residential connections. The committee’s charge was later expanded to draft regulations, related policy and guidelines relating to the Cross Connection Control Program. The committee is composed of members from Knoxville Utilities Board, Memphis Light Gas and Water, West Wilson Utility District, Warren County Utility District, Harpeth Valley Utilities District, TDEC and TAUD. The committee met in February, March and most recently in June.

Before any state administered program can be effectively developed, it must be addressed in statute (or law) to authorize what it strives to do. Statute generally specifies what is required or prohibited and Regulations expound on how these specifics are accomplished. Statutes are voted on by our Legislature and when codified are referred to as TCA (Tennessee Code Annotated).

Regulations are promulgated by the Division administering the statute. The Division of Water Supply has authority over water systems and the Cross Connection Control Program and promulgates regulations as needed. Currently, statutes say only that cross connections are prohibited and not much else. Regulations currently place the responsibility of establishing and maintaining a cross connection program on the water system by requiring the development and adoption of an ordinance or policy, and approval of a plan. Once approved by TDEC the items in the ordinance/policy and plan establish the specifics by which the water system is evaluated. In other words, if the ordinance/policy or plan says that the water system will do a certain activity and it doesn’t, then that is considered a deficiency as viewed by the Division of Water Supply. Tennessee’s Cross Connection Control Program has operated this way since its beginning and continues to operate the same today.

There are some aspects of the Cross Connection Control Program that the committee felt should be established and administered directly by TDEC. That means that TDEC would interact directly with the issue or the person and not involve any water system. These are items that should be consistent and applicable to all water systems and having them directly under the authority of TDEC would provide uniformity across the state. These items are:• Develop and provide a list of approved assemblies• Establish a degree of hazard listing and corresponding protection needed• Develop and administer a uniform assembly test procedure• Establish a tester authorization process• Develop and require a uniform written and practical examination process


• Establish minimum training requirements• Establish minimum trainer requirementsTDEC is willing to develop Rules and administer these items; however there is a concern that statutory authority does not exist to support this. The Environmental Health Act, which authorizes the certification of water, wastewater, distribution and collection operators, deals only with those certifications and no other. It makes no provision to include any additional certificates such as cross connection. The Safe Drinking Water Act provides authority to regulate water systems but does not lend itself to regulating individuals. The idea of amending either of these statutes is something that most consider better left alone because in doing so, it opens up the statute to changes that could be detrimental to the program. The committee has requested that TDEC, Office of General Counsel-Environment look at the SDWA and consider its authority over that portion of the draft rules that deal with TDEC non-system authority.

Initially, the primary focus of the Committee was a Division of Water Supply inspection requirement of 5% of the unprotected residential connections. During the most recent meeting, the committee reviewed a concept offered by one of the members that incorporated a point weighting system for activities that hone in on those residential connections that have the highest probability for cross connections. The proposal established a minimum inspection amount of one percent with not more than half of the one percent coming from the weighted activities. The committee requested that the Division of Water Supply consider that proposal.

Future progress of the committee will greatly depend on a positive response to the request and the proposal mentioned above.


Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station

8/3 Business of Running A Utility conference - Gatlinburg8/10 FlaggerCertificationCourse-Knoxville8/11 TOSHASafetyTraining-Knoxville8/12 HazardCommunications/TNRight-to-Know-Knoxville8/12 Lockout/TagOut-Knoxville8/15 Basic Math - Murfreesboro8/15 FundamentalsofWaterTreatment-Knoxville8/16 Basic Math - Jackson8/16 PracticalMathforWastewaterOperators-Murfreesboro8/17 Practical Math for Distribution Operators - Jackson8/24 ConfinedSpace-Knoxville8/24 GIS/GPS Basics - Murfreesboro8/26 CPR/AED/BasicFirstAidClass-Knoxville8/29 Basic Math - Murfreesboro8/29 FundamentalsofWastewaterTreatmentSystems-Murfreesboro8/30 Basic Math Skills for Utility Operators - Jackson8/30 ConfinedSpace-JohnsonCity8/30 Practical Math for Water Treatment Operators - Murfreesboro8/30 AdvancedPumps&Motors(3days)-Murfreesboro8/30 IntermediatePumps&Motors(2days)-Murfreesbroo8/30 IntroductionPumps&Motors(1day)-Murfreesboro8/31 TrenchExcavationCompetentPerson-JohnsonCity9/1 HazardCommunication/TNRight-to-Know-JohnsonCity9/6 CrossConnectionRenewal-Knoxville9/7 CrossConnectionBasic-Knoxville9/7 BacteriologicalSampling&Monitoring-Murfreesboro9/12 Fundamentals of Water Distribution - Murfreesboro9/12 TOSHA Safety Training - Murfreesboro9/13 ChemicalHandling&Operations-Murfreesboro9/13 CPR/AED/Basic First Aid - Murfreesboro9/14 TrenchExcavationCompetentPerson-Murfreesboro9/15 ConfinedSpace-Murfreesboro9/19 Fundamentals of Water Distribution - Jackson9/19 FundamentalsofWaterDistribution-WestKnoxUtilityDistrict9/19 Fundamentals of Water Treatment - Jackson9/20 CrossConnectionRenewal-Murfreesboro9/21 Cross Connection Basic - Murfreesboro9/28 WilkinsBackflowPreventerRepairClass-Murfreesboro10/4 Granular Media Filter Optimization - Murfreesboro10/10 Basic Math - Murfreesboro10/10 Fundamentals of Collection Systems - Murfreesboro10/11CrossConnectionRenewal-Jackson

Here’s a look at classes being offered for August through December 2011.

You may register for any of these courses online at:www.taud.org, click “Training”, then click “List All” or select your desired category:

-Water Treatment/Distribution-Wastewater/Collection-CertificationPrep-Conferences-BackflowTraining-Safety-Natural Gas-Commissioner’s Training


10/11 Practical Math for Distribution Operators - Murfreesboro 10/18OptimizingtheCoagulation/FlocculationProcess-Clarksville10/31KnoxvilleCramSessions10/31 Murfreesboro Cram Sessions11/15CrossConnectionRenewal-Memphis11/16 Cross Connection Basic - Memphis11/29ChemicalHandling&Operations-Jackson12/6 Safe Drinking Water Act Update for Water Treatment - Jackson12/7 Safe Drinking Water Act Update for Distribution - Jackson

Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station

Operator Certification Renewal Deadline is September 30!

Get your hours the fast, easy, economical way – ONLINE! No travel time or expense

Take the course at your own pace Repeat the quiz until you pass

Take your course when and where you want! Excellent Customer Service: 800-269-1181

These approved courses now available:

Applied Confined Space Safety Pump and Motor Maintenance Basic Environmental Chemistry Surface Water Production 1 Basic Water Works Surface Water Production 2

Chemical Feed Systems and Pump Calibrations Surface Water Treatment

Chlorinator Systems and Chemical Handling Wastewater Collection

Corrosion Control Treatment Optimization Wastewater Treatment

Cross-Connection Control Water Utility Safety

Maintaining Water Quality in Distribution Systems

For course descriptions and more information, please go to: www.suncoastlearning.com.


Webb Creek Utility District Celebrates 30 Years

John HallTAUD Advocacy/Finance

Webb Creek Utility District celebrated over 30 years of service by hosting an Open House celebration on June 10th. The utility district served a complimentary lunch, gave presentations about the district’s history and the evolution of operations, lifetime goals as well as responsibilities and led facility tours. Officials in attendance were

County Mayor Larry Waters, Pittman Center Mayor Glenn Cardwell, Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Vicki Simms, Congressman Phil Roe and Senator Doug Overbey.

Roe congratulated WCUD on a job well done. “Without potable water and sewer treatment, it’s an economic issue,” he said. “(This infrastructure) creates jobs. You have made this region of the country much better. Thank you for what you’ve done.”

Overbey also had nothing but praises for the district and its employees. “We love what you’re doing,” he said. “The ability to attract industry and economic growth (relies on) water and sewer utilities. Thank you for your service.”Because of their high-level of commitment WCUD won best discharge water in their region, two years in a row. The utilities wastewater treatment plant operator, Vickie

President of Webb Creek U.D., Robert Vick

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TN Utility News 2011 - Caldwell B&W.pdf 1 12/16/2010 12:55:32 PM


TAUD Tax Exempt Loan ProgramTAUD members offered long term bond financing & short term interim financing for capital expenditures with favorable terms. Ideal for programs structured between $250,000 - $2,000,000 with minimal upfront costs & fees.

For additional information, please contact:

John E. HallCell: 931-607-1014

Email: [email protected]© U

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Pop

It’s Simple!

Congressman, Phil Roe

Senator, Doug Overbey

James does an out standing job of operating this very complex plant.

“We’re very proud of our staff and board of commissioners. They’re doing a fantastic job,” said WCUD Board President, Robert Vick.

Another source of pride for WCUD is their wastewater system, which has no impact on

the environment. “A small group of people are in charge of a big responsibility — protecting the environment,” Vick said. “(The water is) trout stream quality. It takes the raw sewage and cleans it enough to discharge it into a trout stream. We had a great lunch over looking the mountain stream. There are not many sewer plants where you can do that.” said Vick. “It’s good to highlight the dedicated people who make it happen,” he added. One person who has been with the utility since it begun is Delmer Ball. He

served for thirty years, and he now serves as the utility’s board secretary.

“We all try to work together,” WCUD District Manager James Sunstein said. “It takes everyone to keep it going. It’s difficult sometimes, but we’re doing the right thing. I like having a part in taking care of the environment. I’m proud of our system.”

Janice Carver, WCUD office manager did an excellent job of putting together this event along with maintaining her daily duties. WCUD has a dedicated staff, which contributes to its success.

Congratulations WCUD for a fantastic 30 year celebration!


Larry LewisTAUD Source Water Protection Technician

In conjunction with the TAUD Annual Conference, the TAUD Associate Members met June 7th in Murfreesboro with Mike Wetherington, American Development Corporation, presiding. Twenty-six members attended. Wetherington introduced Terry Sweet of Allen, McGee and Associates and Sandy Neal of Alliance Water Resources. The group took a moment to remember Joe Bishop, of CTI. Bishop lost his battle with cancer at the end of May. Bishop was inducted into the Associate Member Hall of Fame for his dedication to the Association in his 35 year consulting career. Larry Lewis led a prayer in honor of Bishop and his family.

Bob Freudenthal thanked the group for their support and discussed recent legislative changes that affect the political action committee, and how those changes could impact the associate membership.

The 2011/2012 Alternate Associate Advisor election was held at the meeting. Larry Kidwell will become the Associate Advisor in June 2012. The membership decided to hold the Alternate Associate Membership nominations at next year's Annual Meeting to be followed with elections at the 2012 Business of Running a Utility Conference to help boost more member participation.

Mike Clingenpeel reported the TUEC Scholarship Golf Tournament will raise between $7000 - $8000 for the scholarships. The TUPAC Golf Tournament will be held on August 3rd at 8am at the Sevierville Golf Club. Executive Director, Bob Freudenthal informed the membership that changes are being discussed regarding the 2012 Annual Meeting as well as the TUEC Scholarship Golf Tournament.

Danny Brown, Brown Painting, discussed the upcoming TUPAC Trap Shoot, which will be held in conjunction with the Business of Running a Utility Conference held in at Gatlinburg on August 3rd. Brown reminded the membership that sponsors are needed for this event.

For recaps of the Inaugural TAUD Bass Tournament and Operator Expo, please refer to pages 6-9.

Mr. Freudenthal reported for the TUEC Scholarship Committee. The scholarships recipients are:

-Travis Hunt, Henry Elrod Scholarship-Jonah W. Horner, Harold Clark Scholarship-Caleb R. Stafford, Sam Bruce Scholarship

Associate members were reminded of the following upcoming events: Business of Running a Utility Conference at the Gatlinburg Convention Center on August 3-5, 2011; the NRWA Annual Conference in Louisville, KY on October 4-6, 2011; The Utility Leadership Conference on November 9-11, 2011 at the Park Vista in Gatlinburg; and, the Administrative Professionals Conference on December 8-9, 2011 at the Radisson Opryland in Nashville.

The next Associate Meeting will be held on August 4, 2011 as part of the Business of Running a Utility Conference in Gatlinburg.

Associate Meeting Recap


TUEC Scholarship Golf TournamentT h e m e m b e r s o f t h e

c o m m i t t e e a r e :

M i k e C l i n g e n p e e l , Tou rnament Di recto r

C a r o l i n e O a k e sC a r o l y n R a b a t i n

D u k e J u l i a nJ o s h C r a v i n s

K e e n e r B i l l o p sK e n n e t h D i e h l

M a r c N i c h o l sM i k e B a n k s

R i c k P e a r s o nR y a n L e i s e y

J o h n H a l lL a r r y L e w i s

Larry LewisTAUD Source Water Protection Technician

On June 6th, the Tennessee Utility Education Corporation (TUEC) Scholarship Golf Tournament was held at the Indian Hills Golf Club in Murfreesboro. This year seventy-seven (77) golfers participated in the tournament, and every golfer who entered the tournament received an official TUEC golf umbrella. The golf committee works hard to make this tournament a success each year, and we appreciate their dedication. A special thanks to Mike Clingenpeel for his work in getting the tournament set up and Caroline Oakes for organizing the complementary items.

T h a n k y o u T U E C h o l e s p o n s o r s :

A f f i n i t y B e n e f i t s o f Te n n e s s e e A l l i a n c e W a t e r R e s o u r c e sA m e r i c a n D e v e l o p m e n t C o r p o r a t i o nA m n i s o sB r e n n t a g M i d s o u t h C . I . T h o r n b u r g C o . , I n c . C i v i c E n g i n e e r i n g & I T, I n c . C o m p l i a n c e E n v i r o S y s t e m s , L L CE c o -Te c h , I n c . G r e s h a m , S m i t h a n d P a r t n e r s G R W E n g i n e e r s , I n c . G u t h r i e S a l e s a n d S e r v i c eH D S u p p l y W a t e r w o r k s I S C O I n d u s t r i e s J a c k s o n T h o r n t o n & C o . , P. C . J o h n B o u c h a r d & S o n s C o m p a n yK i d w e l l & C o m p a n y M a s t e r M e t e r, I n c . M c G i l l A s s o c i a t e s , P. A . M c W a n e C a s t I r o n P i p e C o N e x t G e n e r a t i o n s U n d e r w r i t e r s R e g i o n s B a n k C o r p o r a t e Tr u s tS & S U t i l i t y S a l e s , L L C S S R -S m i t h S e c k m a n R e i d , I n c .S o u t h e a s t e r n Ta n k , I n c . S o u t h e r n P i p e & S u p p l yS o u t h e r n S a l e s C o m p a n yTe n n e s s e e 8 11T h e C r o m C o r p o r a t i o n U n i t e d S y s t e m s a n d S o f t w a r eU n i t e d U t i l i t i e s , I n c . W & W E n g i n e e r i n g , L L C W a s c o n , I n c . W i l e y B r o s .- A i n t r e e C a p i t a l L L C

T h a n k y o u b e ve r a g e & m e a l s p o n s o r s : B A R E n v i r o n m e n t a l I n c . ; E c o -Te c h I n c . , S o u t h e a s t e r n Ta n k I n c . , S S R , T h e C R O M C o r p . , M c W a n e C a s t I r o n & P i p e C o . , B r a n s t e t t e r, S t r a n c h & J e n n i n g s , K i d w e l l & C o . , W i l e y B r o s .- A i n t r e e C a p i t a l L L C a n d H D S u p p l y

Championship F light1st 2nd

2nd F light1st 2nd

Mike Clingenpeel, Terry Lynch and Frank Lammers. Kevin Mullins (not pictured)

Rick Pearson, Tom Atchley, Bobby Clemmer and Keener Billups

Calvin Clifton, Justin Hedgepath, Dustin Henderson and Mark Moran

Jason Fox, Jerry Holt, Glenn Jordan and Ernie Milteer


3rd F lightKelvin KennoyDoug MurphyGerald Williams

1st

Carter Woodruff (shown right). Mike Kusch, Joe Schmits and Steve Steele (not pictured)

2nd

Closest to the P in#5 Kevin Mullins#7 Mike Clingenpeel#13 Melissa Bloom#15 Ryan Miller

Straightest Drive#14 Ron Warren

Melissa Bloom pictured withMike Clingenpeel

Ryan Miller

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Tennessee Utility News 3rd issue, vol. 25

Documents

Transcript of Tennessee Utility News 3rd issue, vol. 25